Pastor's Note from March 23, 2014

This week in our OT reading and NT study we’re coming to the Book of Judges and finishing Luke.  In these readings there is such a dramatic contrast shown, that between the people of Israel who “did what was right in their own eyes” and Jesus who prayed “not My will, but Yours, be done.”  I trust the Lord will bless you with the reading this week; but first, one more thing about Joshua…

Joshua ends with a great challenge to God’s people in 24:15, “And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourself this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell.  But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”  The people of course responded saying they would serve God, but that enthusiasm had worn off by the next generation and they soon entered the cycles of rebellion and repentance we see in Judges and beyond.  But notice Joshua’s statement of allegiance, not just for himself but for his children.  This is so counter-cultural today, where many parents feel like they need to let their kids find their own path to God.  First of all, feelings tend you get you into trouble.  Second, that kind of “hand’s off” philosophy is a recipe for mediocrity at best, and more probably spiritual disaster.  Fathers, God says to be the spiritual leader, teaching your kids and household the Truth of the Word of God by both your words and example.  Leaving that up to your kids will surely lead exactly to the spiritual train wreck we see in Judges where everyone does what is right in his own eyes,  not loving the Lord with all your heart, soul, and strength.

Such a passive role in the spiritual lives of our kids could not be farther from the Biblical example.  Imagine where we all would be if God our Father had taken such a passive course of action; Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross wouldn’t have happened and we’d all be bound for eternity in Hell!  But praise God, He loves us too much for that!  Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day.  That’s the Gospel; that’s the Truth.

Bible reading:

3/17	Monday	Joshua 22-24	Luke 21
3/18	Tuesday	Judges 1-3	Luke 22
3/19	Wednesday	Judges 4-6	Luke 23
3/20	Thursday	Judges 7-9	Luke 24
3/21	Friday	Judges 10-12	Acts 1
3/22	Saturday	Judges 13-16	None
3/23	Sunday	Judges 17-19	None

Bible memory verse: Luke 24:5b-6a

“Why do you seek the living among the dead?  He is not here, but is risen!”