OATH

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few” — Matthew 9:37
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

On this Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, we’re reminded of when Jesus looked upon the crowds with compassion and saw people who were weary, scattered and in need of hope. Then He spoke these words: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” The need for the Gospel has never been small. Every day, people search for purpose, healing, forgiveness and truth. The fields are ready, yet many pass by without noticing the opportunities God places before them. We often think ministry belongs only to pastors, missionaries or church leaders, but Jesus calls every believer to take part in His work. A kind word, a listening ear, a prayer, an act of service or sharing the message of Christ can help bring someone closer to Him. God is still calling workers into His harvest today. The question is not whether the harvest is ready, but whether we are willing to answer His call. Ask the Lord to open your eyes to the people around you and to give you courage to serve faithfully where He has planted you. Even one faithful seed planted today can bear fruit. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for the plentiful harvest before us. Open our eyes to see those in need and give us willing hearts to serve. Fill us with courage, compassion and faithfulness as we share Your love and truth. Use us as laborers in Your harvest for Your glory. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have made to the Lord.” — Matthew 5:33
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

On this Saturday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time, we see Jesus reminding His listeners that integrity begins with truthfulness. In a world where people often use promises, excuses and carefully chosen words to protect their image, Christ calls His followers to something deeper: a heart that speaks honestly and lives faithfully. “You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have made to the Lord” is not merely about avoiding lies; it is about becoming the kind of person whose word can be trusted. God is faithful to every promise He makes, and He desires His children to reflect that same faithfulness. Whether in marriage, friendship, work, ministry or daily conversation, our commitments matter. When we make a promise, we should honor it. When we fail, we should confess it and seek restoration. Truthfulness builds trust, and trust strengthens relationships. Today, examine your words. Are your promises sincere? Are your actions matching your commitments? Ask God to help you live with honesty, humility and steadfast faith. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for Your perfect faithfulness. Help me to be truthful in my words and faithful in my commitments. Let my actions reflect integrity and honor You in all I do. Give me the humility to admit my failures and the strength to keep my promises. May my life be a testimony of honesty and trustworthiness. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

On this Friday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time, we’re reminded that Jesus does not always call the strong, the polished or the self-sufficient. He also calls the weary. In Matthew 11:28, Christ speaks directly to those carrying burdens that seem too heavy to bear. Some burdens are visible, such as illness, financial stress or family struggles. Others are hidden deep within the heart: grief, guilt, anxiety, regret or loneliness. The world often tells us to work harder, push through and carry the weight alone. Jesus offers a different path. He says, “Come to me.” Notice that He does not first demand perfection. He simply invites us into His presence. True rest is not merely physical relaxation. It is the peace that comes from trusting that God is in control. When we bring our burdens to Christ, He does not always remove every difficulty immediately, but He walks with us through them. His strength sustains us when our own strength fails. Today, lay your burdens at His feet. The Savior who calmed the sea is able to calm your troubled heart as well. Trust Him. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for inviting us to come to You with every burden and worry. When we are weary, grant us the peace and rest that only Jesus can give. Help us trust You more deeply, surrender our fears and lean on Your strength each day. Fill our hearts with Your comfort and remind us that we never walk alone. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 5:20
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

On this Thursday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time, we’re reminded that Jesus’ words in Matthew 5:20 can sound unsettling at first. The scribes and Pharisees were known for strict obedience to religious rules, yet Jesus said true righteousness must go beyond theirs. He was not calling His followers to accumulate more good deeds or create a longer checklist. He was pointing to a transformed heart. The Pharisees often focused on outward appearances, while Jesus calls us to inward surrender. Real righteousness flows from a relationship with God, not from performance for others. When Christ changes our hearts, our actions begin to reflect His love, mercy, humility and truth. We cannot earn entrance into the kingdom by our own efforts. Instead, we receive Christ’s righteousness by faith and allow His Spirit to shape how we live. Today, examine not only what you do, but why you do it. Ask God to make your obedience genuine, your love sincere, and your faith deeply rooted in Him. Each day, seek His grace, trusting that He desires holiness from the inside out. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your grace. Cleanse my heart and help me seek a righteousness that comes from knowing and following Jesus. Let my faith be sincere, my love genuine and my actions reflect Your truth. Shape me from the inside out by the power of Your Holy Spirit. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.” — Matthew 5:17
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

On this Wednesday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time, we’re reminded that Jesus did not come to erase God’s promises, commands or prophetic words. He came to fulfill them perfectly. Every sacrifice pointed to Him. Every prophecy found its meaning in Him. Every command revealed humanity’s need for the Savior. In Christ, we see the fullness of God’s plan unfolding exactly as intended. This verse reminds us that God is faithful. He does not discard His word when circumstances change. Instead, He brings it to completion. When we read Scripture, we are not reading disconnected stories or outdated laws. We are seeing one grand story of redemption centered on Jesus. He fulfills what we could never accomplish on our own. Because He fulfilled the law, we are invited to live in grateful obedience, not to earn salvation, but as a response to His grace. Trust the One who completes every promise. What God begins, He faithfully brings to fulfillment through Christ, our Lord and King forever. His truth stands through every age, calling hearts to faith, hope and peace. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to fulfill Your perfect plan of salvation. Help me trust Your Word, follow Christ faithfully and live in grateful obedience to Your grace. Strengthen my faith, deepen my love for You, and guide my steps each day. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” — Matthew 5:12
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

On this Monday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time, we’re reminded of a surprising command Jesus gives us : rejoice when you are persecuted for following Him. The world measures success by comfort, approval and applause. Christ measures faithfulness by obedience, even when it comes at a cost. When you stand for truth, defend what is right or openly live your faith, not everyone will celebrate it. Some may mock, reject or misunderstand you. Yet Jesus tells us to be glad because heaven sees every sacrifice. Your trials are not signs that God has abandoned you; they can be evidence that you are walking the same road traveled by the prophets, apostles and saints. God wastes nothing. Every insult endured for Christ, every quiet act of courage, and every faithful step taken in difficulty is known by Him. The reward awaiting believers is greater than any earthly recognition. Keep your eyes fixed on eternity. Stand firm, love boldly and trust that God honors those who remain faithful to Him through every season. His promises remain sure forever and ever. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, give me the courage to remain faithful when my faith is tested. Help me to rejoice in every circumstance, knowing that You see every sacrifice made for Your name. Strengthen my heart, fill me with Your peace and keep my eyes fixed on the reward You have prepared in heaven. May I follow Christ with love, humility and perseverance each day. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“Very truly, I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.” — John 6:53
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Jesus’ words in John 6:53 are among the most challenging and profound in all of Scripture. He does not offer a symbol of convenience or a metaphor to be admired from a distance. He calls us into deep communion with Him. In the Eucharist, Christ gives Himself completely—His Body, His Blood, His life. The Lord knows that we cannot sustain spiritual life on our own strength. Just as food nourishes the body, His presence nourishes the soul. Every time we approach Him with faith, humility and repentance, we are invited to receive the grace that transforms hearts and strengthens disciples. Jesus is not merely giving instruction; He is giving Himself. His invitation is one of love, sacrifice and union. When we receive Christ, we are reminded that true life is found not in possessions, achievements or worldly success, but in abiding in Him. The more closely we remain united to Jesus, the more His life shines through us each day. Through Him, weary souls find hope, strength, mercy and peace. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us Your Son, Jesus Christ, the Bread of Life. Draw us closer to Him and deepen our faith in His presence. Nourish our souls with Your grace, strengthen us to follow You faithfully, and help us remain united to Christ each day. Fill our hearts with hope, mercy and peace. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“Why were you searching for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” — Luke 2:49
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

When Mary and Joseph finally found Jesus in the temple, His response revealed both His identity and His mission: “Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” Even at a young age, Jesus understood that His life was centered on the will of the Father. While His earthly parents searched anxiously, Jesus was exactly where He was supposed to be.

We often spend our days searching for purpose, direction, peace or answers. Yet the Lord gently reminds us that true fulfillment is found wherever the Father is. When our hearts are rooted in God’s presence, His Word and His purposes, we begin to see life more clearly. The distractions of the world lose their grip, and our priorities align with His.

Jesus invites us to make the Father’s house our dwelling place—not merely a building, but a daily relationship with God. As we seek Him first, we discover that the One we have been searching for has been calling us to Himself all along. Today, pause, listen and draw near to His voice. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me into Your presence. Help me seek You above all else and align my heart with Your will. When I become distracted or anxious, draw me back to where You are. Teach me to listen for Your voice, trust Your guidance, and live each day for Your glory. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet.” — Mark 12:36
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

In Mark 12:36, Jesus quotes David’s words about the Messiah: “Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet.” This verse reminds us that Christ reigns in complete authority. Though the world often appears chaotic, nothing is outside His control. Jesus is not struggling for victory; He has already secured it through His death and resurrection. He now sits at the Father’s right hand, the place of honor, power and kingship.

For believers, this truth brings confidence. We do not need to live in fear of evil, uncertainty or opposition. The battles we face are real, but they are not ultimate. Christ rules above every circumstance, and His purposes cannot be defeated. When we feel overwhelmed, we can rest in the knowledge that God is still working, still reigning and still keeping His promises.

Today, trust the King who sits on the throne. His timing is perfect, His victory is certain, and His reign will never end. Place every worry beneath His feet and walk in peace on. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, our victorious King, who reigns at Your right hand. Help me trust His authority when life feels uncertain and remember that no enemy is greater than His power. Give me peace, courage and faith to rest in His promises. May I walk confidently today, knowing that Christ is Lord and His victory is sure. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” — Mark 12:31
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Jesus gives a command that is simple to read yet challenging to live: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Loving our neighbor goes far beyond being polite or avoiding conflict. It means seeing others as people created in the image of God, worthy of dignity, patience, mercy and compassion. We naturally care for our own needs, protect our interests and extend grace to ourselves when we fall short. Jesus calls us to extend that same care and grace to those around us. This love is not based on whether someone agrees with us, deserves it or can repay it. It is rooted in God’s love for us. Every act of kindness, encouragement, forgiveness or service becomes a reflection of Christ. When we choose love over judgment, generosity over selfishness and understanding over anger, we become living witnesses of the Gospel. Ask God today to help you see your neighbors through His eyes and to love them with the same love He has shown you. Such love can transform hearts, homes and each of us. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me with perfect love. Help me to see others through Your eyes and to love my neighbors with kindness, patience, compassion and grace. Teach me to put aside selfishness and reflect the love of Christ in my words and actions. May my life be a witness to Your goodness and bring glory to You. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven.” — Mark 12:25
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Jesus answers a question about the resurrection by lifting our eyes beyond the limits of this world. The Sadducees tried to trap Him with a complicated story about marriage, but Jesus pointed them to a greater reality. Eternal life is not simply an extension of earthly life. In heaven, relationships are perfected in the presence of God. The love we experience here is a glimpse of something far greater that awaits those who belong to Christ. This verse reminds us that our ultimate hope is not found in human institutions, accomplishments or even the blessings we cherish most. Our hope is found in the promise of resurrection and everlasting fellowship with God. While marriage is a beautiful gift for this life, heaven will reveal a deeper joy that surpasses every earthly experience. Today, live with eternity in mind. Let your faith shape your priorities, your relationships and your perspective. The best is still to come. Fix your heart on Christ, and trust His promises without fear. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of resurrection and eternal life through Jesus Christ. Help us live with our eyes fixed on eternity and our hearts devoted to You. Strengthen our faith, deepen our trust, and remind us that the joys of heaven far surpass anything this world can offer. May we walk closely with You today and always. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“Give to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” — Mark 12:17
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Jesus’ answer in Mark 12:17 silenced both His critics and the crowd. They hoped to trap Him between loyalty to Rome and loyalty to God. Instead, Jesus revealed a deeper truth. Coins may bear the image of an emperor, making them suitable for taxes and earthly obligations. But every human being bears the image of God. We can fulfill our civic duties, respect lawful authority and contribute to society, yet our hearts, minds and lives belong to the Lord alone. The danger comes when we give the world what only God deserves: our worship, trust, identity or ultimate allegiance. Governments rise and fall. Leaders come and go. God remains sovereign over all. Jesus calls us to live faithfully in both realms, honoring our responsibilities on earth while never forgetting our citizenship in heaven. Give the world what is owed, but give God what is His: your whole self, surrendered in love, obedience and faith. Each day, ask whose image your choices reflect, and let the answer be Christ. Always. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, help me to faithfully fulfill my responsibilities in this world while keeping my heart devoted to You. Teach me to honor You above all else, remembering that I bear Your image and belong to You. May my thoughts, words and actions reflect Christ each day. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone” — Mark 12:9
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Today, Jesus reminds us of a truth that speaks today. The religious leaders rejected Him because He did not fit their expectations. They overlooked the One sent to save them. Yet God’s plan was never threatened by rejection. The rejected stone became the cornerstone, the foundation upon which salvation, hope and eternal life are built.

Many of us know what it feels like to be overlooked, dismissed or underestimated. We may carry wounds from people who failed to see our value. This verse reminds us that God often works through what the world rejects. He specializes in redeeming broken stories and using unlikely people for His glory.

If Christ was rejected and fulfilled His purpose, then our setbacks do not define us either. God sees what others miss. Trust Him with every disappointment. In His hands, rejection can become redirection and what seemed cast aside can become essential to His greater plan. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Cornerstone of our faith. When we feel rejected, overlooked or discouraged, remind us that our worth is found in You. Help us trust Your plan, even when we do not understand it. Build our lives on Christ and use us for Your glory. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” — John 3:17
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Today, we’re reminded, Jesus did not come looking for reasons to reject people. He came looking for people to rescue. John 3:17 reminds us that God’s heart is not rooted in condemnation but in salvation. The world was already broken by sin, fear, pride and rebellion. If condemnation had been God’s goal, there would have been no need for a Savior. Instead, the Father sent His Son to step into our darkness and make a way back to Him. Jesus sees every failure, every scar, and every secret struggle, yet He still extends grace. That does not mean He ignores sin; it means He offers forgiveness and transformation through His sacrifice. When we understand this truth, we stop running from God and start running toward Him. We also learn to reflect His heart toward others. Rather than leading with judgment, we can lead with compassion, truth and hope. Christ came to save. That mission reveals the depth of God’s love and the power of His mercy. Today, rest in His invitation, trust His grace and follow Him daily. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus not to condemn us, but to save us. Thank You for Your mercy, grace and unfailing love. Help us to trust in Your forgiveness, walk closely with You and share Your compassion with others. May our lives reflect the hope we have found in Christ. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“By what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you this authority to do them?” — Mark 11:28
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Today, we’re go back to when the religious leaders asked Jesus a pointed question: “By what authority are you doing these things?” They were not seeking truth; they were protecting control. Jesus had cleansed the temple, challenged corruption and revealed God’s heart. His authority did not come from popularity, position or human approval. It came from the Father.

We face the same question today. The world often demands credentials before it will listen. Yet the authority behind a believer’s life is not found in titles, wealth, or influence. It is found in obedience to Christ. When God calls us to serve, forgive, speak truth, encourage the broken or share the gospel, we do not act on our own authority. We go in His name.

That truth brings humility and confidence. Humility, because the mission is not about us. Confidence, because the One who sends us possesses all authority. When opposition comes, remember who called you. Walk faithfully, speak boldly and trust the Lord to accomplish His purposes through you. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, thank You for the authority of Jesus Christ. Help me to walk in humble obedience, trusting Your call on my life rather than seeking the approval of others. Give me courage to speak truth, serve faithfully and honor You in all I do. May my words and actions reflect Your will and bring glory to Your name. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” — Mark 11:24
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Today, we’re reminded that Jesus’ words in Mark 11:24 are not a blank check for every desire of the human heart. They are an invitation to trust the heart of God. Prayer is more than presenting requests; it is placing our confidence in the One who hears us. When Jesus says to believe that you have received it, He is calling us to pray with faith rather than fear, with expectation rather than doubt. Faith does not demand that God follow our plans. Faith rests in the certainty that God will accomplish His perfect will in His perfect time. Sometimes the answer comes quickly. Sometimes it comes through waiting, growth and perseverance. Yet the believer can pray boldly because God is faithful. Every prayer offered in alignment with His will is heard. Every tear is seen. Every burden is known. Trust Him enough to ask. Trust Him enough to wait. Trust Him enough to believe that His answer, whatever form it takes, will always be for your good and His glory. Keep bringing every need before Him, and never stop praying. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Heavenly Father, strengthen my faith and teach me to trust You completely. Help me to pray with confidence, knowing that You hear every word and care for every need. Give me patience when I must wait, courage when I am uncertain and peace as I rest in Your perfect will. May my heart always trust Your goodness and Your timing. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.” — Mark 10:49
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Today, let’s talk about the lesson of Bartimaeus. He sat beside the road in darkness, ignored by many and silenced by the crowd. Yet when Jesus stopped, everything changed. The same voices that once told him to be quiet suddenly said, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.” That is the power of Jesus. He sees the forgotten, hears the hurting and calls the broken closer. Some of us have spent years sitting beside our own roads, believing our failures, wounds or fears disqualify us from grace. But Jesus still stops for people the world overlooks. His call is not filled with shame, but with mercy and purpose. When Christ calls you, do not stay seated in discouragement. Rise up in faith. Throw off the weight of doubt and move toward Him. Jesus is still calling weary hearts today. The Savior who called Bartimaeus out of darkness is calling you into healing, hope and a new life with Him. His voice cuts through the noise of this world and reminds us that no cry for help is ever too small for the Son of God to hear. So keep praying. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Lord Jesus, thank You for hearing us when we cry out to You. Give us courage to rise when You call, faith to follow where You lead and trust to believe that Your mercy is greater than our fears. Help us leave behind doubt and walk toward the healing and purpose You have prepared for us. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

“For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Today, we’re reminded that Jesus did not come wearing a crown of earthly power or demanding applause from the crowds. He came with a towel in His hands and love in His heart. In a world that pushes us to climb higher, gain more and be noticed, Christ shows us a different path. True greatness is found in humility, sacrifice and service. Every time we choose to help someone, encourage the hurting, forgive an enemy or quietly meet a need, we reflect the heart of Jesus. The cross was the greatest act of service the world has ever seen. He willingly gave His life so we could be redeemed and restored. Jesus never asks us to do what He was unwilling to do Himself. He calls us to serve others with compassion, patience, and grace. Serving is not weakness; it is strength surrendered to God. Today, ask the Lord to help you love people the way He loves you and to serve faithfully even when nobody notices. Small acts of obedience done with a willing heart can point weary souls toward the hope and mercy of Christ every day. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Lord Jesus, teach me to serve with humility, love, and compassion. Help me put others before myself and reflect Your heart in all I do. Strengthen me to serve faithfully, even when no one sees. Let my life point others toward Your grace and mercy. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional

[Gary Bartels @RLTW0604]

Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields, for my sake and for the sake of the good news, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this age and in the age to come.” — Mark 10:29-30
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Another great morning from the OATH desk, y’all!

Today, we’re reminded of what following Jesus meant for some. He never promised that following Him would be easy. In fact, He openly said that some would leave behind homes, relationships, comfort, careers and even lifelong dreams for the sake of the Gospel. Yet Jesus also promised that no sacrifice made for Him would ever be wasted. The world measures gain by possessions and status, but Heaven measures gain by obedience and faithfulness. Many who walk with Christ know the ache of losing friendships, opportunities or familiar places because they chose to stand firm in truth. Still, God has a way of multiplying what we surrender. He gives spiritual family, deeper peace, stronger purpose and eternal hope that cannot be taken away. Sometimes the reward comes through unexpected friendships, restored joy or moments of grace that remind us we are never abandoned. Whatever you have laid down for Jesus, trust this: He sees every sacrifice, He walks beside you in it and His reward will far outweigh the cost. His promises never return empty. Amen?

Have a great day, y’all. Love yourself and love each other. Thank the Lord for His love for us. Thank Him for His forgiveness. Thank Him for His grace. And don’t forget to thank Him for allowing us to see another of His beautiful days!

With love and grace,

Gary Bartels
Founder, Executive Director and the first disciple of OATH
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Let us pray, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Lord Jesus, help me trust You with every sacrifice I make for Your name. Strengthen my heart when following You feels costly, and remind me that nothing surrendered to You is ever wasted. Fill my life with Your peace, purpose and presence, and keep my eyes fixed on the eternal reward found in You alone. In the name of Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
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#oathdevotional