St Luke Baptist Church, 1903 W Poplar Street, San Antonio, TX (2026)

06/01/2026

Bring a Plus One to Church, See ya Sunday

06/01/2026

PM REFLECTION

Scripture: Psalm 42 :1

Reflection Question: What did I hunger for most today?

The things we crave reveal what is shaping us. Did your heart pursue God's presence today?

Prayer: "Create in me a deeper thirst for You, O God."

Illustration: "The Deer That Kept Running"

Text: Psalm 42:1
"As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God."

A deer can survive for a while without food, but not long without water. Hunters and wildlife experts will tell you that when a deer becomes desperately thirsty, it will keep moving, searching, and pressing forward until it finds a water source. Its thirst becomes stronger than its desire to rest. It is driven by what it needs most.

David uses that image to describe the soul's longing for God. The deer isn't looking for entertainment. It isn't looking for comfort. It isn't looking for another deer. It is looking for water because water is life.

The question for us is: What drove us today? What kept our attention? What occupied our thoughts? What were we chasing?

Every day, something is shaping our desires. Some people spend all day thirsting for success, approval, comfort, possessions, or recognition. But David says the Spirit-formed life develops a deeper hunger, a hunger for God Himself.

Fasting helps expose what we're really hungry for. When something is removed, we quickly discover what has the strongest hold on our hearts.

What did you hunger for the most today? What were you chasing? What were you thinking about when you woke up? What occupied your mind throughout the day? Because whatever you hunger for the most will eventually shape your life!

David said, 'As the deer pants for water, so my soul pants for God.' In other words, 'Lord, I need You like a thirsty deer needs water. I need You more than comfort. More than convenience. More than applause. More than anything this world can offer!'

And here's the good news: when you hunger for God, He will satisfy you! Jesus said, 'Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.' Is there anybody here whose soul is saying, 'Lord, more of You and less of me? Lord, You're what I need! Lord, You're what I'm after!'

Reflection Thought: Whatever I hunger for most is revealing what is leading me most.

If I am walking by the Spirit, my deepest hunger will not simply be for what God can give me; it will be for God Himself.

ARE YOU WITH ME?

PASTOR"5 ALIVE"

06/01/2026

STILL WALKING… STILL BECOMING!

From Habits That Shape Us to Walking by the Spirit

Dear Hearts,

What a powerful month we have shared! Throughout May, God challenged us to develop Habits That Shape Us, like Bible Intake, Prayer, Service, and Worship, that directly cultivate our dependence on the Holy Spirit and deepen our Spirit-led living.

We learned that God's Word guides our steps. We learned that Prayer keeps us dependent on Him. We learned that service allows us to give back what God has given to us. And we learned that Worship keeps our hearts centered on Christ.

As we reflect on the journey, remember that these disciplines are vital for your spiritual growth and for feeling connected to God's ongoing work in your life. Every Prayer prayed, scripture read, act of service, and Worship surrendered helps you become a Dedicated, Developed Disciple Maker.

Now, as we enter June, we move from spiritual habits to spiritual dependence. Our theme for June is WALKING BY THE SPIRIT.

Spirit-Formed Living Through Daily Dependence

Our anchor text is Galatians 5:16-25, reminding us that living the victorious Christian life depends on trusting the Holy Spirit's leadership, inspiring confidence in God's power working through Us.

Our June Discipline Journey-Fasting, Prayer, Sensitivity to the Spirit, and Obedience-is designed to help us practically deepen our daily dependence on the Holy Spirit and move beyond routine into relationship.

Our Prayer is that we will not merely practice spiritual disciplines but become people who are led by the Spirit every day.

BRING ONE SUNDAY IS HERE!

This Sunday is Bring One Sunday! Think of one person-family, friend, coworker, or neighbor-you can invite. A simple invitation or conversation can open a heart to God's love and grace.

Who will you bring?

Invite a family member. Invite a friend. Invite a coworker. Invite a neighbor. Invite someone who needs hope, encouragement, and a fresh encounter with God.

The church grows when each of us reaches one. Let us fill God's house and create room for others to experience His love and grace.

As we continue our journey of becoming Dedicated, Developed Disciple Makers, let us walk together, Worship together, serve together, and now learn to Walk by the Spirit Together.

"This I say then, walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh." — Galatians 5:16 (KJV)

"Becoming Dedicated, Developed, Disciple Makers"

ARE YOU WITH ME?

PASTOR"5 ALIVE"

06/01/2026

Monday AM REAP DEVOTIONAL

Scripture: Matthew 6:16-18

Read: Jesus assumes His followers will fast. He does not say "if" you fast, but "when" you fast. Fasting is a discipline that teaches us to deny our flesh so that our spirit becomes more attentive to God.

Examine: Many times, we feed our appetites more than we feed our spirits. Fasting reminds us that our deepest need is not food, entertainment, comfort, or convenience; it is God Himself.

Apply: Today, whenever you feel a physical craving, let it become a reminder to seek God. Turn your hunger into Prayer.

Pray: "Lord, teach me to hunger for You more than anything else. Help me walk by Your Spirit and not be controlled by my flesh. Amen."

Illustration: A radio must be tuned to the right frequency to receive a clear signal. Fasting helps tune our hearts to God's frequency by turning down the noise of the flesh.

Illustration: "The Overflowing Coffee Cup"

Text: Matthew 6:16-18
Theme: Walking by the Spirit – Spirit-Formed Living
Focus: Emptying Ourselves for God's Filling

Imagine someone walking into a coffee shop carrying a cup that is already full. They order fresh coffee, but when the barista begins pouring, it spills over the sides and onto the counter. The problem isn't that there isn't enough coffee. The problem is there isn't any room in the cup.

The barista might say, "Before I can give you something new, you've got to empty what's already there."

That's what fasting does. Fasting is not about God trying to punish us by taking something away. Fasting is about making room for Him. Many of us come to God already full, full of distractions, full of worries, full of self-reliance, full of our own plans, full of the noise of the world. And God says, "I want to fill you with My Spirit, but first you've got to make room."

In Matthew 6:16-18, Jesus teaches that fasting is not a performance for people but a practice that positions us before God. When we voluntarily empty ourselves of physical comfort, we create space for spiritual filling. We are saying, "Lord, I need You more than I need this meal. I need You more than my routines. I need You more than my appetites."

Walking by the Spirit begins when we stop trying to stay full of ourselves. The Spirit fills surrendered vessels, not crowded ones.

Can I tell you why some people never experience the fullness of God? It's not because God isn't pouring, it's because they're already full! Full of pride. Full of worry. Full of their own strength. Full of their own agenda. But when you fast, you're telling God, 'Lord, empty me of me so You can fill me with You!'

And isn't that what the Holy Spirit wants to do? Not just improve us but fill us. Not just help us but lead us. Not just visit us but form us.

Empty vessels get filled. Hungry hearts get satisfied. The Spirit leads surrendered lives.

ARE YOU WITH ME?

PASTOR"5 ALIVE"

05/30/2026

Reflection: "We Grow Better Together"

Text: Acts 2:46 (KJV)
"And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart."

The early church shared life daily. Fellowship is not just about sitting near people in Worship; it's about building a community that spiritually supports and encourages each other.

The early church did not grow in isolation. They grew because they shared life. They worshiped together, learned together, served together, and encouraged one another daily. Their spiritual growth was connected to their commitment to Fellowship.

One of the habits that shapes us is staying connected to God's people, even when it feels uncomfortable. We are strengthened when we Worship together, encouraged when we pray together, and challenged when we walk alongside one another. Vulnerability can be a step toward stronger faith, and connected believers become stronger.

Growth isn't just about private devotion; it's about gathering with the body of Christ. Others help sharpen our faith and remind us of His promises, giving us purpose in community.

As we continue to focus on Habits That Shape Us, consider specific ways to deepen your connection-whether through volunteering, small groups, or mentoring-because active participation makes Fellowship an essential part of discipleship. We truly grow better together.

Reflection Question: How did I strengthen the faith, encouragement, or unity of someone else today? "Am I simply attending church, or building community?"

Challenge: Prepare your heart to engage fully with the body of Christ tomorrow.

Prayer: Lord, help me become fully connected to the life of Your church and committed to encouraging others. Lord, thank You for placing me in the family of faith. Help me to value Fellowship, encourage others, and remain connected to the body of Christ. Shape me through relationships that honor You and help me grow alongside my brothers and sisters in Christ. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Closing Thought: A tree may grow alone, but a forest withstands the storm together. In the same way, God designed believers to grow stronger through Fellowship. We grow better together.

ARE YOU WITH ME?

PASTOR"5 ALIVE"

05/29/2026

FRIDAY AM REAP DEVOTIONAL

Read: Psalm 133:1

Examine: Unity is precious in God's sight. Fellowship reflects the heart of God because unity displays His love and power.

The enemy fights unity because when we stand together, our strength and faith are amplified, reminding us how much unity matters to God and encouraging the congregation to cherish and defend it.

Apply: Protect unity by avoiding division, pursuing peace, extending grace to one another, and communicating in love, so everyone feels welcomed and valued.

Pray: Lord, help me become a bridge-builder and not a divider. May our prayers strengthen our hope and trust that unity will flourish in our church family. Amen.

Illustration: The Symphony Orchestra

A symphony orchestra may have over one hundred musicians on stage. There are violins, cellos, trumpets, flutes, drums, and many other instruments. Each instrument sounds different and has a different part to play. If every musician decided to play whatever they wanted, whenever they wanted, the result would be noise and confusion.

But when every musician follows the same sheet of music and watches the same conductor, something beautiful happens. The violins don't try to be trumpets. The drums don't try to be flutes. Each instrument plays its part, and together they create harmony.

Psalm 133:1 says, "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"

The church is God's orchestra. We have different gifts, personalities, ministries, and assignments. Some sing, some teach, some serve, some pray, some encourage, and some lead. Fellowship is the habit that keeps us connected and focused on the same mission. When we stay connected through love, Worship, service, and encouragement, the church functions in harmony.

But when people isolate themselves, refuse to cooperate, or insist on having their own way, the beautiful music of ministry becomes noise. Fellowship reminds us that we are not competing with one another; we are completing one another.

That's why our theme is so important. As we become Dedicated, Developed, and disciple makers, Fellowship keeps us connected so that every member can contribute their part. And when every part works together, the church becomes a beautiful testimony of God's grace.

The question is not, "Can I play every instrument?" The question is, "Am I faithfully playing my part so that the whole body can glorify God?"

Church, God never intended for us to be solo performers. He called us to be part of His orchestra! And when we pray together, serve together, Worship together, and encourage one another, the church doesn't just make noise, it makes music! Do I have a witness here? That's why David said, 'Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!' Because Fellowship allows the church to function in harmony!

Illustration: Individual instruments sound good alone, but when properly united, they create a powerful symphony. Fellowship allows the church to function in harmony.
ARE YOU WITH ME?

PASTOR"5 ALIVE"

05/29/2026

AM DEVOTIONAL

READ: Mark 1:35
EXAMINE: Jesus prioritized prayer before people and pressure.
APPLY: Set a consistent time to meet with God.
PRAY: "Teach me to prioritize You before everything else."

ILLUSTRATION: "Before the House Wakes Up"

Text: Mark 1:35
Theme: Prioritized Prayer | Habit of Dependence

You ever notice how a house can go from peaceful… to chaotic… in a matter of minutes?

It starts quietly…Then the alarm goes off…Kids need breakfast…Someone can't find their shoes…Another one needs help with homework…The phone starts ringing…Notifications start buzzing…And before you know it, the day is demanding your attention!

But I've seen some mothers who made up their mind: "Before anybody calls my name… I'm calling on God."

So, they wake up a little earlier…Slip out of the bed quietly…Sit at the kitchen table… or in that favorite chair…Not because they have extra time, but because they understand something:

If I don't meet with God first… I won't be ready for what's coming.

That's what Jesus does in Mark 1:35, "Very early in the morning… while it was still dark… He got up… went to a solitary place… and prayed."

Before the crowds…Before the needs…Before the pressure… He prioritized prayer.

If Jesus, with all power, still made time to pray… How much more do we need it?

Especially mothers, who are constantly pulled in every direction. Because if you don't pray first… You'll spend your whole day reacting instead of relying.

That's how habits shape us: Dedicated: You make time for God first. Developed: You grow in strength before the day starts. Disciple Makers: Your children SEE what you prioritize. "What a child watches you do first… teaches them what matters most."

"Before the house wakes up… I'm waking up with God!" Because a mother who depends on God knows this: I can't control everything in my day…But I can control how I start my day!

ARE YOU WITH ME?

PASTOR"5 ALIVE"

05/28/2026

THURSDAY PM REFLECTION

Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Reflection: "Did my words build someone up today?"

Our words can strengthen or discourage. Fellowship includes speaking life into others.

Prayer: Lord, use my words to encourage and strengthen people today.

Sometimes a car can look perfectly fine on the outside, clean paint, nice tires, headlights shining, but still won't move because the battery is drained. And when the battery dies, all it takes is another car with enough power and a set of jumper cables to help bring it back to life.

That's what encouragement does. Paul says in 1 Thessalonians 5:11: "Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another…"

The word "edify" means to build up, strengthen, recharge, and restore.

Because every person you meet is fighting something: some are drained by grief, some are drained by stress, some are drained by disappointment, some are drained by loneliness, some are drained by spiritual warfare.

And the truth is, people can smile in public while running on empty privately.

But God says, "I want your words to become jumper cables."

One encouraging word…one Prayer…one text message…one "I'm praying for you"…one "You can make it"…one "God hasn't forgotten you"…can restart somebody's hope.

That's why Fellowship matters. Fellowship is not just gathering together; it's strengthening one another with life-giving words. A dedicated, developed disciple maker understands that God can use their mouth to heal wounded hearts.

Jesus specialized in speaking life into discouraged people. He told weary disciples, "Let not your heart be troubled." He told a grieving Martha, "I am the resurrection and the life." He told a dying thief, "Today shalt thou be with me in paradise."

Aren't you glad the Lord knows how to speak strength into weak places? So, before you leave home every morning, your Prayer ought to be: "Lord, let my words lift somebody. Let my words strengthen somebody. Let my words point somebody back to You."

ARE YOU WITH ME?

PASTOR"5 ALIVE"

05/28/2026

THURSDAY NOON MEDITATION
"I refuse to let people carry burdens alone."

Text: Galatians 6:2

Fellowship means showing up for one another. Sometimes ministry looks like listening, helping, praying, checking in, or simply being present.

Small acts of care reveal the love of Christ. When someone has a deep wound, doctors often use small stitches to hold the skin together so healing can happen. The stitches are tiny compared to the size of the injury, but without them, the wound can reopen, become infected, and worsen.

That's how small acts of care work in the body of Christ.

Paul says in Galatians 6:2: "Bear ye one another's burdens…"

Most of the time, carrying burdens isn't a giant public moment. Sometimes it's the "small stitches" that hold hurting people together: a phone call, a ride to church, a meal during grief, a hug after Worship, a text saying, "I'm praying for you," sitting quietly with someone who's hurting, remembering somebody's name, checking on a member who missed service.

Small things. But they hold wounded hearts together.

Because Fellowship is not proven only in big events, it's revealed in consistent care. And a disciple-making church learns to notice people before they fall apart.

Sometimes people don't need a sermon in that moment…they need somebody to show up.
They need somebody to care. They need somebody to remind them: "You are not forgotten."

And every small act of love points back to Jesus. Because when Jesus walked this earth, He showed love in what looked like "small" moments: touching lepers, stopping for blind beggars, feeding hungry crowds, weeping with grieving families, washing disciples' feet.

What looked small to others revealed the heart of Christ. Some of the greatest ministry happens in the little things nobody applauds.

A small act of care can keep somebody from giving up. A small act of care can restore hope. A small act of care can make somebody feel the love of Jesus again.

Meditation Prayer: Lord, make me sensitive to the needs of others and willing to help carry burdens.

ARE YOU WITH ME?

PASTOR"5 ALIVE"

05/28/2026

THURSDAY AM REAP DEVOTIONAL
Read: Galatians 6:2

Examine: Paul teaches believers to bear one another's burdens. Fellowship means we refuse to let people struggle alone.

Sometimes ministry looks like: listening, praying, helping, checking in, or simply being present.

Apply: Look for someone who may need encouragement today. Be available.

Pray: Lord, make me compassionate and attentive to others. Help me reflect Your love through Fellowship. Amen.

When firefighters go into a dangerous fire, they never go in alone. They use what is called a "buddy system." Every firefighter is responsible for watching out for somebody else. Because smoke can blind you… heat can weaken you… And falling debris can trap you. And if one firefighter gets overwhelmed, the others don't stand outside criticizing; they rush in to help carry him out.

That's the picture Paul paints in Galatians 6:2: "Bear ye one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ."

The word "bear" means to help carry something too heavy for one person alone. Fellowship is not just sitting beside each other on Sunday; it's helping each other survive the fire of life, Monday through Saturday.

Because sometimes people in church carry hidden burdens: grief nobody sees, pressure nobody understands, temptation nobody talks about, anxiety nobody admits, financial strain, family pain, silent disappointment.

And the danger of isolation is that people can look strong while secretly collapsing.

But a disciple-making church says, "You don't have to carry this by yourself." "We will pray with you." "We will walk with you." "We will encourage you." "We will help hold you up until your strength returns."

That's why Fellowship is a habit that keeps us connected. Because disconnected believers become vulnerable believers. But when we stay connected, we help carry one another through the flames of life.

And can I tell you why we do it? Because Jesus carried burdens for us first! At Calvary, He carried a cross that belonged to us…He carried our sin…our shame…our punishment…and because He refused to leave us struggling alone, we ought to refuse to leave one another alone too.

ARE YOU WITH ME?

PASTOR"5 ALIVE"

St Luke Baptist Church

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