Devotions, November 12, 2008

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Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Devotions: Ps 81, 82, 119:97-120; Joel 2:12-19 Rev 19:11-21; Lk 15:1-10

Let’s make a joyful noise in praise and thanks to our God! God says: ‘I lifted the burden from your shoulder; I freed your hands from the errands of bondage; when you cried out, I came and delivered you. I have tested you, and I continue to stretch you. Have no idols! I Am YHWH, your Savior. How I long for My people simply to listen and obey—I would soon subdue your enemies and drive them far from you, into eternal judgment. I would satisfy you with finest grain and honey from the Rock!’ God is Judge, decreeing justice for the weak and needy; to Him belong all the nations, all creation.
God, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all day long. Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, more understanding than my teachers. I respect the aged, and follow Your precepts, YHWH. I will not turn aside; Your word is my lamp and lights my path. Lord, accept my thanks and my self, and continue to be my Teacher, I pray. You are my Heritage and my Treasure. In my hope, keep me from shame and discouragement, awesome Father!
Through His prophet Joel, God says: ‘Return to Me; rend your hearts, not your garments; I Am gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Consider a fast and extended prayer; gather with the faithful, and come before God together. Beg God’s favor and mercy, that we may glorify God before the nations. God says: “I will satisfy you and protect you.” ’ Amen, great Lord.
In John’s vision, he sees heaven opened and the Messiah on a white horse, eyes aflame, crowned with many diadems, clad in a robe dipped in blood, leading an army in spotless linen. The sword of His mouth smites His enemies; He rules absolutely. He Is Faithful and True, The Word of God, King of kings, and Lord of lords.
His enemies also gather to make war against God’s Anointed: kings, captains, mighty men, cavalry gathered behind the beast opposed to God. The beast and false prophet are captured, and thrown alive into the lake of fire and sulphur. And the rest of the evil force were slain by the sword of Him Who sits astride the white horse.
The religious authorities murmured disapproval, noting that tax collectors and other societal rejects were gathering to Jesus, and He received them with love and courtesy. He answered them with parables (two here): Men search tirelessly for one stray from their flock of a hundred; women scour the house searching for one lost coin; and when the lost is found, they call together their friends and rejoice. Just so, in heaven the angels rejoice more over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine who need no repentance—yes, the angels rejoice over one sinner who turns to God and is saved.