Leviticus 20:22 – 22:16
Notable Verse 22:9 “The priests are to keep my requirements so that they do not become guilty and die for treating them with contempt. I am the LORD, who makes them holy.”
What strikes me as interesting in this passage is how different the church has become. These days pastors go out of their way to say “See, I’m really no different than you. Don’t be afraid of me. I am nothing special.” There is a truth to that, especially in light of Peter calling the church a nation of priests. But this passage screams “Pastors, you are called to be different.”
I am not a pastor, I am a teacher and an occasional lay-preacher. This passage is not merely a reminder, it is a Marine drill sargent screaming in my ear. “You don’t get to be like everyone else, even everyone in the church. Grow up!” It is a challenge that I am going to have to seriously consider if I am going to continue preaching on a regular basis.
Mark 9:1-24
Notable Verse v.24 “…I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”
I think every honest Christian has had, if they are honest, encountered this struggle. In fact it is probably a daily or weekly cry.
How do I deal with the creation / evolution debate? I am pro-life but an unemployed woman with 14 kids and no way to support them, yikes! Why do I have an illness that will last until I die, don’t you care God? How can I really trust you God when the economy and moral ethics of my country, heck in my wallet and heart are being flushed down the toilet? How do I know I am eternally saved in the middle of all my sin? At least those are the questions that keep me thinking during the day if not up all night.
It is comforting to know that God rewards this unbelieving belief as much as he rewards a concrete no-doubt-about-it faith.
http://www.stonesoupmusic.org/SoupArt/Mark9_24ljm2.jpg
Psalm 43:1-5
Notable Verse v.4 Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God.
If you read this Psalm, you will see that this is a 4-act play.
Act 1 - a cry for help. David is crying out to God “Hey! Help me! Where are you? I need you. Are you there? (verses 1-2)
Act 2 – Do something! It is interesting that David isn’t asking for a mighty army. He is asking for light, truth and guidance. Not the usual response from us in the midst of a battle. (verse 3)
Act 3 – The climax, after the battle I am going to thank you. I am confident in your actions. (Verse 4)
Act 4 – The Finale, David seems to be saying “Oh yeah, that’s right. You are God, I am not. If you are listening to me, remember that lesson as well. Thanks for watching this play. I am going to go pray now.” (Verse 5)
Proverbs 10:18
Notable Verse: He who conceals his hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool.
Nothing really to say here, but wouldn’t it make a great fortune cookie slip.
