empty space inside – Be Still…

Ezekiel 16:1-34 – She Had It All

Read Ezekiel 16:1-34

The Sovereign LORD has quite a message for Jerusalem. We see how God describes the history of the holy city. He equates Jerusalem to an unwanted child now bound for her “happily ever after.” That is until her own pride and confidence get in the way. What happens is predictable even today as she falls away from God, leading her to make many unhealthy choices.

First we see God’s mercy in choosing to rescue this abandoned child. What devotion the creator feels toward his eventual bride! But the word picture here of this forgotten child is chilling. Sadly, there was a time in history when parents would leave behind their unwanted children, particularly daughters. God uses this familiar example to get attention but mainly to be understood. Continue reading “Ezekiel 16:1-34 – She Had It All”

Advent🎄 Matthew 24:42-44 – Watch

This Advent reading comes from Jesus’ teaching on the future found in Matthew 24:

“So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected.”

Jesus is coming back. He said so himself. Even as we draw closer to the celebration of His first coming, I’m still excited for Jesus’ second coming. Jesus gives us a warning here we should to pay attention to. “Keep watch!” Since we’re not meant to know exactly when he’s coming, being on watch will assure we are not drifting away from God’s loving arms. The not knowing can also make the waiting and watching much harder.

Haggai 1:1-11 – Put God First

Read Haggai 1:1-11

Haggai is one of the post-exilic prophets who spoke to those returning from exile in Babylon. Haggai’s messages begin the second year of King Darius’ reign in approximately 520 B.C. Babylon had been defeated by King Cyrus in 539 B.C.

The Persian Empire was in control in those days, and the Israelites had been allowed to return to their homeland. From what God says through Haggai, it appears the people are still living selfishly and not putting God in first position. His temple still lies in ruins.