Day 20 of 40: Mercy

June 10, 2013 by Leave a Comment

Throughout many of the books of prophecy in the Bible, God had harsh words for his disobedient people. Built into the Law of Moses were commandments to look after those in need and to treat others fairly. (For example: Exodus 23.1–6; Leviticus 19.33–34; Deuteronomy 16.19.) From time to time, the people of Israel stopped obeying the law. They decided that bringing the right sacrifices at the requisite feast times were enough. So God had to remind them again and again to be just. This passage is a reminder to put feet to the mission: be just and humble.

Bringing the right sacrifices to God is never enough. The prophet Samuel had the same message for Israel’s first disobedient king, Saul (1 Samuel 15). Instead of obeying God, Saul offered sacrifices. A big mistake! The type of obedience God requires is to be just and merciful and humble before God.

What should I bring when I come into the Lord’s presence,when I bow in front of the God of heaven? Should I bring him year-old calves as burnt offerings? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of ramsor with endless streams of olive oil? Should I give him my firstborn child because of my rebellious acts? Should I give him my young child for my sin? You mortals, the Lord has told you what is good. This is what the Lord requires from you:to do what is right,to love mercy,and to live humbly with your God.~Micah 6:6-8

Reflect

Why is obedience better than offering sacrifices? When haveyou seen this truth played out in your life?

Live it

How will you “let mercy be your first concern” this week? One way you can do so is to pray for those who work in the justice system. Find out about advocacy work, speaking up for other people. Support a shelter that provides safe harbor for runaways and victims of domestic violence.

Pray:

Lord, you are the refuge of everyone who has been wrongfully accused of a crime. Help me to be an advocate for people who lack the skills and means to defend themselves against false accusations. Give wisdom and compassion to all people who serve in the courts and criminal justice system.

 

 

 

Next: Day 21 of 40

 

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Filed Under: Prayer

Day 18 of 40: Restoration

June 8, 2013 by Leave a Comment

While the prophet Isaiah had harsh warnings for the people of Judah, he also had good news: after enduring punishment, God’s people would later be restored. Restoration means more than putting a bandage on a wound. The society Isaiah described was not “patched up.” Instead, in this passage, there is an emphasis on wholeness, permanent change, and on bringing people back into complete health—mind, body, and spirit.

Helping change the lives of those devastated by poverty, illness, and other issues means striving to  offer  more than temporary solutions, as helpful as they may be. It means looking for solutions regarding employment, security, health—deeper issues, that when addressed, bring lasting changes.

The passage challenges us to not only provide a patch of land, but provide a well-watered garden. Help to build a home, not just a roof over someone’s head. Strive not only for the absence of war, but also for restorative, healing peace. Read Isaiah 58:6-12.

Reflect:

According to Isaiah 58:6, what does it “really [mean] to worship the Lord”? What do you think worship that helps restore lives looks like?How has the message of restoration helped you? How will you spread the message of restoration this week? Consider the lives in need of restoration in your community. How will you join in the ministry of restoration? (Does it mean not doing something even if it’s seems like a small contribution and doesn’t seem to solve much,at first?)

Pray:

Lord, bring encouragement to those in need. Show all who claim to be your disciples what is pleasing in your eyes. Make us truly grateful and show us how we can help the poor and give them reason to shout your praises.

 

 

 

Next: Day 19 of 40

 

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Filed Under: house of prayer, Prayer, prayer meeting, The First 40 Days