Day 516 - Matthew 25 & Psalm 143

 Julie

Today's reading was parables and the final judgment. The parables seem to be explaining who Jesus will be returning for and taking with him. From the first one it seems that he is saying that he will be taking those that have prepared, which I take to mean that those who have been following in the Word of God and preparing their hearts with the faithfulness and trust that God asks us for. That we have given ourselves to God and did not wait until the last minute to do it. The second one is to take what is given to us by God and use it it as he intended and give back to him. We should not hoard or covet what we are given and trust that God will always provide. The final judgment tells us that if we are not kind and giving to those in need then we will be left behind. We need to show the compassion of Christ to others. 

Guide us Lord and protect us from our enemies or those that intend evil. Guide us in staying faithful and trusting in you.

Michelle

I have never heard of the ten virgin's parable, but the others are familiar.  The one about the bags of gold is also used when they speak about finances in the church and how you are to use your money according to God's will.  The end of the sheep and goats parable is familiar from a song, I think.  "Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of he least of these, you did not do for me."  If we do not do for other or those in need, we are not walking in Jesus' footsteps.

"My spirit grows faint", is what stands out.  It seems like a prayer or cry for mercy and refuge.

Day 515 - Matthew 23 -34 & Psalm 142

 Julie

Jesus spends 23 telling the holy men that they have not been the Christ followers that they should be and that they have not been treating people well. He reprimands them for persecuting those that do not follow the laws of God when they are not following them either. 24 goes into the end of days. Reading this you have to wonder if we are in the begining of this. However,  Jesus does say that we will not know when it comes and we are not meant to. Yes, there will be signs and the things that we should be the most careful of is false prophets and false christs. He gives an explanation as to what it will look like when he returns and that we should not believe anything that falls outside of that description. 

The Lord is my refuge.

Michelle

This reading really caught my attention.  When he talks about the end times and not knowing and that one will be taken and the other left behind.  There are shows and movies about this very event.  And yes, he is reprimanding them for not following as they should.  Chapter 24 I feel like I should read again, even though I already got the picture in my head.  He does say we won't know the hour or day, but some of the explanation does make you think, this is the beginning.  We see so much of the types of behavior in times today, as our ancestors prob saw as well.  

The writer is crying out to God asking for refuge.

Day 514 - Matthew 21-22 & Psalm 141

 Julie

Having internet issues today. I have already typed this out once, but it did not save it. Not sure I can remember exactly what I said...

The parables in today's reading seem to be Jesus telling the holy men that they are lacking in faith and are not following the will/direction of the Lord. However, those that they look down upon and see as sinful people are showing their faith and following the Lord. He is also telling them that they will, in the end, have a hand in his crucifixtion. They seem to be acting more like politicians than holy men in that they are bending to the will of the people and their own selfish desires instead of the will of the Lord.

Lord protect and guide by words so that I do not speak evil and please be a refuge for me during times of difficulty so that I might glorify you in how I speak.

Michelle

There is just alot going on in today's reading.  I think you got it right stating that they seem like politicians and not holy men.  At the beginning it says Jesus entered Jerusalem as King and the crowds new him as a prophet.  He then rid the temple of all the money changers and started to heal people.  It does seem like their faith is in question throughout this reading.  Then they are surprised when he tells them to give Caesar what is his and God what is his.  Then Jesus again tells them that the greatest command is to love one another.  The last section has me a little confused.  It seems that it's saying that even thought Jesus came from the line of David, it doesn't make him his son, but God's.  I do not know if I am understanding that right.

I feel like I am reading something different from you.  But then I don't feel like I understand this psalm at all.  The only thing that stands out is, "But my eyes are fixed on you, Sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge - do not give me over to death".  

Day 513 - Matthew 19-20 & Psalm 140

 Julie

You know it's interesting to see how Matthew tells the stories. It's like he is trying to get in as much information as possible as succinctly as possible. He covers so much. It will be interesting to compare with the way that the others write theirs. What stood out in this reading was the part about the rich young man. This should be a good reminder for us that it's not about the money but about following God and making the most out of what he has provided for us. Yes, we need enough to do our works, but we should not have an excessive amount. It should be something that makes us rethink our priorities in life.

Deliver us Lord from the evil around us. I think that this is a good prayer for the times that we are experiencing. 

Michelle

It does seem like he is trying to share alot of info in a short amount of time.  This book so far seems very full and like I should focus on smaller bits to really get more understanding, as I feel like I am missing things.  The beginning of this chapter talks about divorce, and it's asked why Moses allowed men to divorce their wives.  When reading the response, it sounds like there is only one acceptable reason that someone should divorce and that is for adultery, or sexual immorality as its stated.  And then Jesus speaks of the Eunuchs and that some choose that life for the sake of God's kingdom.  I am not quite understanding this part.  Later on, Jesus tells of the commands we are to keep to.  And it seems the young rich man is struggling to give it all up for God.  It's understandable, to be asked to give it all up, your whole life.  But then I thought of you and the fact that you have given up your entire life to be where you are, and that it seems that God has called you to that.  It's been a difficult road for you and seems to still be at times, and it's very hard to watch you go through it not knowing how to help you or be there for you.  I do not know why God has called this upon you and constantly ask that it be shown to you.  I struggle to understand the why's and am constantly asking for them, knowing I will never get an answer.  I supposed I have come to terms with that in a way, but the questions still come.  I worry about you on this journey and pray for you as much as possible.  The vineyard parable has me scratching my head.  The end stands out when he says, "Don't I have a right to do what I want with my own money?  Or are you envious because I am generous?"  Jesus then talks about his death again.  The last line of the next section is powerful and very popular, "just as the son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many".  It seems a call to have a servant's heart no matter you position in life.

There are few lines in this that seem like a prayer, but they are good when we feel evil taking over.  Most of this psalm sounds like the person is asking for bad things to happen to others.  I am not sure why I am reading it this way.

Day 512 - Matthew 18 & Psalm 139

 Julie

The parable of the lost sheep is one of my favorite ones because it reminds us that in a world where we are judged that God will go and find us and bring us back. He is not looking for perfection or for the perfect people, he is looking for those that need him. 

God knows our hearts and knows who we are and what we will do before we do. He loves us through it all.

Michelle

The lost sheep story is a powerful one.  We are constantly told that God does not seek the perfect but calls those that are lost to him.  Verse 20 is a well-known verse about when 2 or more gather in Jesus' name, he is there with them.  The last section of this chapter is about forgiving others and how many times you should forgive them.  It says many times over as if you are forgiven so you should forgive others in the same way, this is as God forgives you.  This can be hard to do, especially when they continually hurt you or themselves.  I think when we talk about forgiveness, no matter if it's debt or actions, or words, or whatever, we think we have to trust the person in future dealings.  It's one thing to forgive, but I am not sure that we are supposed to keep getting run over by whomever it is.  But as God says, forgive as I have forgiven you.  And as we have read, he forgives the people over and over and over again.  Calling them all back to him. 

The part that stands out is the last few verses.  "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.  See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."  I think this stood out because often I feel like my anxiety is a test from God.  Like how far can I push her before she snaps.  Or that is what it feels like.  

Day 511 - Matthew 16-17 & Psalm 138

 Julie

The pharisees and the sadducees are demanding that Jesus show them signs and he basically tells them that he won't do that because they haven't been able to see the signs that they have already been given. They have pretty much lost their way. So Jesus warns the disciples to be wary of the teachings of the pharisees and sadducees as they are not teaching the Word of God. Jesus is also beginning to warn the disciples of his coming death and they are having trouble with this. Simon tells him that will not happen and Jesus reprimands him for his words and tells him to stop living of this world. Jesus is meant to die and be resurrected and he must trust in this prophecy. 

The Lord is there when we call and protects and guides us through difficult times. 

Michelle

I found it interesting that Jesus tells them they won't get a sign because they don't see the ones already in front of them or told them over the years.  Aren't we always seeking signs, yet not seeing the ones that are already there?  Jesus is revealed to the disciples and heals a boy, he also shares the details of his death, or some of it anyway, but his followers don't want to believe it and are grieved.  Jesus also pays his taxes.  I am not sure why this part stood out.

Sing of what the Lord does for you.  Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life...with your right hand you save me.

Day 510 - Matthew 13:53 - 15 & Psalm 137

 Julie

Jesus is still healing those that come to him, but this adds where he feeds thousands with a little bit of bread and fish. What really stood out in this reading today though is where he is reprimanding the pharisees for not really teaching the commandments, but for manipulating them in their own way and making things more of a tradition than a commandment. So they are asking Jesus why his disciples did not wash their hands before they ate, because this was something of importance at the time and actually a tradition. Jesus tells them that we are not defiled by what we put into our mouth because it doesn't affect anyone but the person eating. However, we are defiled by what comes out, by our words, because that comes from the heart and is subject to sinfulness if we speak evil.

I am not sure what to say about this psalm today. I read it a few times, but nothing really stood out and I am not sure what it is really trying to say.

Michelle

John the Baptist is beheaded at the beginning of this reading.  Herod's daughter asks for his head from Herod for her birthday.  And even though he wanted him killed, he knew he shouldn't because the people revered him.  But he did it anyway.  Jesus then feeds the masses with little and walks on water, his disciples are still questioning if he is real.  Some of the disciples still seem to be struggling to understand the parables.  But I think you are right about the words that come out are from the heart and can be evil if we let them.   I did not understand how he saw the woman's faith when she spoke about the dogs eating the crumbs from their master's table.  Jesus also feeds the masses with little again.  

It sounds like they are talking about the destruction of Babylon.  

Day 509 - Matthew 13:1-52 & Psalm 136

 Julie

Jesus is speaking in parables to the people and it confusing to the disciples as to why and explains that the people have been warned that they would be spoken to in parables and they will probably not understand. The parables all seem to be explaining that we need to truly root ourselves in the Word so that when we are attacked or are tempted what we have sewn cannot be destroyed. Since over time the prophets were blatant in what the people should do Jesus is now telling them in a way that it will only stand out to those who are listening and rooting themselves.

Give thanks to God for all he had done, is doing and will do for his steadfast love endures forever.

Michelle

Jesus speaks in parables and explains why he is doing it.  But I think you hit it correct, those that are listening will understand and interpret the parable in the way God wants them to understand.  It all goes back to when he said they have eyes but do not see and ears but do not hear.  So, we are to study, listen, and pray to understand the wisdom God is providing us.

The first line says it all, Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, His love endures forever.

Day 508 - Matthew 11-12 & Psalm 135

 Julie

Jesus is starting to make waves with people. People see him as challenging the laws of God, but he is giving a different take on them and calling out the people for their contradictory nature. The pharisees are the worst and see him as an evil man because he is not following their interpretation of the Torah or the five first books of the Bible which is what they followed at the time. He is being ridiculed for doing things on the Sabbath, such as picking food to eat and healing people. He basically tells them that if they had paid attention these types of things had been done in the past and God had forgiven based on the nature of the circumstances. I believe this means that we should not ignore those in need because the sabbath.

Bless the Lord for he endures forever.

Michelle

It sounds like people are not liking what Jesus and John the Baptist are doing.  Jesus denounces the towns where he performed miracles, expecting them to repent but they didn't.  The end of chapter 11 has a well-known verse, "Come to me all you who ae weary and burdened and I will give you rest".  I am having a hard time explaining myself.  I have tried to type something multiple times, but I can't get the point across.  Knowing that the people haven't really been doing what God instructed for a long time, what is happening here is really not all that surprising.  When you read about how Jesus is doing things on the Sabbath, it's like people forgot what God had said in the past, which seems to be the recurring theme throughout the Old Testament.  So, when Jesus comes along and is doing things as God has commanded and helping those in need instead of shunning everyone, it's like they don't know how to react to him or his actions. I feel like when he speaks of trees bearing good fruit, that relates to parenting in some respects.  How we bring up our children, even though they make their own choices when they get older.  I know that's not what it's talking about but that is what comes to mind.

Praise the Lord and all he has done for us.  The part that stands out says, "The idols of the nations are silver and gold, made by human hands.  They have mouths, but cannot speak, eyes, but cannot see.  They have ears, but cannot hear, nor is there breath in their mouths.  Those who make them will be like them, and so will all who trust in them."  When I read this, it made me think of all the people and things that are idolized today.  There are so many idols for people and I don't think they realize it.  Those that are following all these social media and celebrity idols.  It makes me think of some of what we have read about. 

Day 507 - Matthew 10 & Psalm 134

 Julie

Jesus is sending the disciples out to spread God's Word and gives them the ability to do his work as he does it. He warns of them of persecution and asks them to stay strong and not fear for in their faithfulness they will have ever lasting life. Should they lose their lives in the name of Jesus they will be considered righteous and enter heaven for staying faithful and true to the very end. This all sounds so crazy sometimes and it's easy to see that if someone is being persecuted that they would give in out of fear and for wanting to save their own lives. However, he is asking that they stand firm in their belief of him and God.

Bless the Lord!

Michelle

I read as you did and understood the same.  It is a difficult thing for a person to give in out of fear, especially when their life is on the line.  But he does tell them what they will face and that they are to go and search for those that are lost and to give freely as was given to them.  The other thing that stands out is when he says, "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth.  I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.  For I have come to turn a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law - a man's enemies will be the members of his own household".  This was an unexpected statement.  But it goes on to say if you love them more than Jesus or God then you are not worthy.  So, if the person puts these people in their lives above God, then they aren't worthy.  I am feeling mixed emotions about this for some reason. I know we are to put God above all else, and I don't intentionally put someone above God, but maybe this happens more than we realize?  It's something to be mindful of.

Praise the Lord, all you who minister in secret (I think that is what this means), Praise the Lord.

Day 506 - Matthew 8-9 & Psalm 133

 Julie

This reading mostly tells about the healing that Jesus does. The part that stands out to me is when he asks Matthew to follow him and it is asked why Jesus eats with sinners and those that are considered to be of ill repute. I love his response..."Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick...I came not to call the righteous, but sinners." Those who are already following God don't need Jesus' help as much as those that are not or that have gone astray. Jesus chooses broken and flawed men to follow him as his disciples. 

We should all live in unity.

Michelle

I too found that to be a standout passage.  He is seeking to bring back the sinners into God's love, not the ones already there.  The devotional explained another aspect of this section:  To press toward Jesus/God.  That what we go thru, whether illness or suffering of some kind, we are to press closer to God for healing.  This healing could be a variety of things, maybe not just physical.  In this way we will feel the power of God.

When we live together in unity, God sees that as good and will bestow his blessing.

Day 505 - Matthew 6:19 - 7 & Psalm 132

 Julie

Today's reading also has a lot going on that is important...
They are talking about the eye being the lamp to the body. If it's healthy and we have our sights set on God then our inner life will be good, our soul will be good, but if we are unhealthy and have looked away we will be going in an immoral direction. 
We should not be anxious about worldy things and know that God will provide whatever we need. I have learned this lesson in spades in the last 9 months and it has been a humbling experience.
Do not judge others...I don't think we need to say more than that. It's up to God to place judgement not us imperfect people.
Ask and God will provide. However, we need to remember that he will not provide things he does not think that we need.
Treat others the way you want to be treated.
Be weary of false prophets. I think that this is one of the harder ones just because you don't always know who is false and who is not. 

The Lord has chosen Zion and the line of David will live on there...I believe that is what they are saying.

Michelle

Ok, I think I will go through each one as there is alot, like you said.

Fasting, when you do this, it says not to look somber, but instead put yourself together so it is not obvious.  This seems like a vanity or pitying type of behavior he is warning us not to do.  Which makes sense.  It is another in secret behavior God wants you to observe.  I like what you said about the eyes to the body.  It also talks about not being able to serve 2 masters and that we must choose, God or money, or whatever else is drawing us from him.  That whole not worrying thing is a big challenge for me, but it continues to get better.  It's hard not to worry about what we need here on earth, but we must remember, as you said that God will give what we need, not always what we want.  We are not to judge others and wording it differently doesn't change what we are doing.  Look inward first as we are not perfect either.  Ask, seek, and knock are all powerful instructions.  That final verse in this passage reminds us to do unto others as we would want them done to us.  I think this really is about treating people well, with kindness and respect.  Even when they do not reciprocate.  Narrow is the road that leads to life, very few find it.  Be wary and mindful of false prophets.  I think you are right that we struggle to know who are the ones sent by God.  We are to do the will of God in order to enter the kingdom of heaven.  When Jesus talks about the builders and those that are wise and foolish, the crowds were amazed.  Again, I think he was speaking in ways they would better understand what God wanted, as for too long, the supposed priests and prophets were corrupting God's instruction.

The end of this psalm almost seems to be referencing the crucifixion.  I am not sure why that came to mind but it's the last couple of verses that made me think that.  

Day 504 - Matthew 4:12 - 6:18 & Psalm 131

 Julie

Wow! There is so much in this one to talk about...
I am not sure why Matthew doesn't mention the other disciples here, but if I am not mistaken it was more than these 4 that were with him at the Sermon on the Mount, especially since Matthew is writing about it. This is where the Beatitudes come from and they are basically blessings. He explains to the disciples that they need to be a light that shines and shares the Word of God with others and don't hide their knowledge. Everyone believes at this time that Jesus is changing the laws, but he is showing that they are not being fulfilled in the right way and is there to help show us how we can fulfill them in the right way. He explains that the Scribes and Pharisees have lost their way and they will not be entering heaven as they are no longer fulfilling the laws of God and are leading people astray. From here we are reminded about controlling our anger, what it is to be lustful, when divorce is sinful...I am going to add here about oath...
I had to read the explanation a bit more but it says, "An oath involved using God's name or a substitute for it, to guarantee the truth of one's statement. Jesus' disciples should be so honest that their words can be believed without an oath." So we are being told that we should be so honest that we should not have to "swear to God." I believe that is what is being said here...continuing on...we should not retaliate against others, but let God take care of them, we should love our enemies...it is easy to love those we like, but shows greater strength to love those we have trouble with...give to those in need and don't judge them, the section about prayer is very important, I think. I know that I struggled with whether or not I was praying correctly and I loved this when I first read it. Are prayers are really between us and God and we should be praying in private. That is not to say that we should not pray with others, but when we do it does not need to be a lot of words, but to just talk to God and ask and be thankful. The Lord's Prayer kind of covers a lot of bases for us to where we can prayer that prayer and ask God for many things, although this does point out that we need to be as forgiving to others as God is to us.

Calm and quiet your soul.

Michelle

There was alot to unpack here.  I was wondering about the other disciples too, as I was certain there were more by this point, but also, I expected they would be discussed before this.  Everything you have said is spot on.  I think Jesus is better explaining so people can understand what God wants.  Kind of simplifying it all, if you will.  What you are saying about swearing to God makes complete sense.  We should always be honest no matter what.  People find that hard, I don't but it seems to aid in me alienating myself cuz people can't always take the truth or don't want to hear it but are searching for someone to tell them what they want to hear, which is not always the right thing.  It feels like this whole reading is about not being boastful.  We should be good and do the right thing and share God's word always but should do it because it's right and not because we want to be popular, powerful, or prideful.  

This sounds like a prayer to quiet yourself, to not be concerned with matters not your business.  That you should put your hope in the Lord.

Day 504 - Matthew 3 - 4:11 & Psalms 130

 Julie

John the Baptist is setting the way for Jesus and Jesus comes to him to be baptized. I can't remember if this is indicated a lot through the reading, but it does seem that when people first come in contact with Jesus they expect him to be more like the priests and have expectations that what are considered "ordinary people" cannot do things such as baptize others. Jesus shows and tells them differently. Jesus is then tempted by Satan to fall and to follow him. This is where we are reminded that we must live by the Word of God. Just as we need food to survive we need the Word of God to survive as well. He also reminds us that God is the only way and the only one we should be worshipping.

The Lord forgives and redeems if we are faithful and trusting. 

Michelle

I am bothered by the fact that we do not know anything about the time Jesus grows up and the time in between all this time that has passed.  It just seems to be jumping forward quickly through this story.  But yes, I agree, there is an expectation that turns out to be different.  It's interesting that Jesus is tested and what he says if very powerful about not living on bread alone, but that the Word of God is the most important to survive anything.

This psalm seems to be him asking God to hear him in his cry for mercy.  

Day 503 - Matthew 1-2 & Psalm 129

 Julie

We have entered the NT. It begins with the genealogy of Jesus. Then it gives a brief explanation of the birth of Christ, the visit by the wise men, and the way in which Herod had all those children killed. I believe that this story is repeated with some added detail. Verse 1:23 can be referred back to Isaiah 7:14 where they began prophesying about the coming of Jesus. I don't remember if we read it that way, but will go back and look to see if we noticed that as we read. 

So...I did go back and look and I had focused on something different in that reading, but you had picked out those verses to discuss and had seen the prophecy. That was a few hundred years before this time that they were talking about his coming.

They have been treated badly since they were young, but the Lord has blessed them for their faithfulness.

Michelle

Ok, so I am catching up again, and not to make excuses, but it just feels like there is alot going on and I am not keeping up with it all.  Not just this study, but other stuff too.  I don't feel like I have the mental capacity to deal with it all right now and I really need to.  So, let's see where this New Testament takes us.  

The preface says it's been a silent interval of 400 years from the Old to the New Testament and says that history tells us what happened, just not in the bible, but is during the Roman empire.  This does go thru the genealogy of Jesus, it also references alot of verses we have read in the Old Testament.  There are references to Rachel and crying for her children also.  The devotional speaks of Joseph and how he handled the situation.  When he could have left Mary pregnant and alone, he was given a dream and made the choice to follow God's command, to stay with her and keep her and the child safe.  In this time that had to have been a very difficult decision.  It says this which I find inspiring, "You may have a world of responsibilities sitting on your shoulders, and you're just not sure you can handle it.  Do what Joseph did when facing the impossible.  Bring Jesus into your home and invite him into your heart.  He doesn't know the word impossible because with him all things are possible".  

I have read the psalm 3 times now and still don't get anything.  I might be distracted.

Day 502 - Psalm 128

 Michelle

Blessed are all who fear the Lord and who walk in obedience to God.  This seems to be saying that those that walk in obedience and fear will prosper, as will their offspring.

Julie

I agree and think that this might be a good psalm to pray with regularly.

Day 501 - Psalm 127

 Michelle

This psalm seems to be saying that if we start with God, what we do will not be in vain.  That we must start the day with the Lord.  It also says that children are a heritage from God, a reward from him.  I don't understand the last line in this psalm though.  It doesn't make sense for some reason.  But what I got from it is to start with the Lord each day and to raise your children with God, as they are a gift from God.

Julie

For that last line, the explanation says that at this point the children are grown up and stand at the gate with their father which was where legal disputes were settled. So...the more children you have the more help you have in those instances?

Day 500 - Malachi 3.6-4 & Psalm 126

 Michelle

This section goes thru how they are speaking arrogantly to God.  We then hear again that the faithful will be spared in his wrath, yet all the evil doers will burn.  The tithing portion of this section stands out.  The verse that says, "test me and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be enough room to store it" is a very well-known verse when speaking of tithing.  The devotional puts it like this, "we cannot receive God's gifts with closed fists".  What a great way to look at it.  If we are holding on to all we have and not leaving open a hand to receive, then we will not receive all God has to give.  

This psalm seems to be about reaping and sowing.  Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.  

Julie

I love what you picked out about tithing and that is definitely important to remember. This ends with talk about the coming of the Lord. This almost sounds like they are prophecying for Revelation and not for the current coming of Christ, but I am probably wrong. 

The Lord will restore the fortunes of those that sow with humbleness and joy and ask God for guidance.

Day 499 - Malachi 1-3.5 & Psalm 125

 Michelle

The preface to this book states that time and again God has shown love for his people, yet their love in return is sorely lacking.  They embraced God for a time but then became complacent.  They seemed to just be going thru the motions and God is not happy about it.  The sacrificial animals are crippled and blind, and the priests were shortchanging him, even stealing from the tithes they refused to give.  Then they had the audacity to say, "It's futile to serve God".  So, God basically tells them to come worship me when you mean it.  The chapters go thru the ways they were breaking the covenant and God's responses to the people.  

Those who trust in the Lord cannot be shaken.  He is asking God to do good to those that are good and banish those that turn to evil.

Julie

The Lord tells them that he loved Judah but hated Esau and was trying to show them that he does get angry. He tells how even the priests are considered to be corrupt and evil. They end this part with the messenger of the Lord and talking about the coming of Christ.

It is so wonderful to be one of the Lord's people.

Day 498 - Zechariah 12-14 & Psalm 124

 Michelle

This reading seems like it has alot going on.  First it sounds like he is still punishing people but says he will make Jerusalem an immovable rock.  Then there is mourning for one who is pierced, which sounds like they are speaking of the time of Jesus, but I can't tell.  Then there is cleansing for their many sins, and they are punished by those around them.  When the shepherd gets struck and the sheep scatter, this seems to be talking about God and his people being scattered, and that he will keep one-third and will put them through hell in order to refine them into the people he wants them to be.  Then, at the end it sounds like all the nations will fight against Jerusalem and plunder them, but then it will be raised up and secured.  

If the Lord had not been at our side, we would have perished.  We are only saved by God's help and grace.

Julie

I think you summarized it well. I had a little more trouble with this one, but could be because I have read so much this morning.

I think that is a good explanation.

Day 497 - Zechariah 9-11 & Psalm 123

 Michelle

It sounds like God is breaking his covenant or promise to the people in this reading.  As they will not turn from their evil ways, he gets angry, and says they do not value him.  

We should lift up our eyes to God, and ask for mercy.

Julie

Chapter 9 actually talks about the coming of Jesus. 9:9 tells them that the king is coming and continues on to say that he will rule from sea to sea and that people would be set free by the blood of the covenant. 

Have mercy on us O Lord!

Day 496 - Zechariah 7-8 & Psalm 122

 Michelle

In this reading, the people are asking if they should continue some of their practices and God says that when they have done those things in the past it was not for him, but for themselves.  He tells them to administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another; do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor; do not plot evil against each other.  But the refused to pay attention and turned from God's instruction, as their ancestors did.  It says if they would just do what he is asking, then good things would come upon them.  Sometimes I feel like this myself.  If people would just do as I ask, we would all be better for it.  But sadly, that is not what seems to be happening yet.  

I am not sure why but I'm not getting anything on this psalm.  I think it says he will rejoice with those that go to God.  But I am not sure I am understanding it all.

Julie

Isn't it interesting that God is not asking much of people but that they still can't do those small things. Is there really that much anger and hate in the world? It's sad. 

The explanation for this one says that it celebrates Zion as God's chosen city.

Day 495 - Zechariah 3-6 & Psalm 121

 Michelle

The clean garments seem to be a metaphor for God forgiving all their sin and allowing a clean slate.  The devotional says something interesting about that.  That we tend to reject God's forgiveness and instead remain in our filthy clothes of guilt and self-condemnation.  This is so true.  We do not easily allow ourselves to be forgiven.  Much like wearing dirty old clothes, we are comfortable in.  I found that a very powerful metaphor.  I did not understand some of the other chapters.  The flying scroll is a curse, the woman in a basket is wickedness, but I didn't understand why they were building a house for her.  The four chariots, I am not sure what their purpose was but one of them brought the spirit rest in the land.  At the end it says, "This will happen if you diligently obey the Lord your God".  He was speaking to Jim about crowning Joshua, I think.  

My help comes from the Lord.  He watches over us and will keep us from harm.

Julie

That is a very powerful explanation and so very true. With the rest of this as I was reading I felt like it has some similarities to Revelation. There is a "Did You Know?" box in my Bible that confirms that some of the same symbols talked about here are also talked about in Revelation. Again, I would say that it is interesting that we see them now at the coming of Christ and they are mentioned again when he is supposed to return.

Our help comes from the Lord.

Day 494 - Zechariah 1-2 & Psalm 120

 Michelle

The preface state that Zechariah prophecies about the Messiah.  I think you are right that they are telling about the coming of Jesus.  

This starts with a call to return to the Lord.  It says that God is angry at those he used to punish his people as they took it too far.  Then Zechariah has a vision and asks God to help him understand all the elements of it.  What stand out in this reading the most to me is in chapter 2 verse 4, an angel comes to tell the one measuring, "Jerusalem will be a city without walls because of the great number of people and animals in it".  This made me think that not only will those within Jerusalem and Judah will be brought back to God, but all those throughout the world, that believe in God will be brought to him as well.  No matter their location, God will welcome those who give themselves to him.  

Call on the Lord in times of distress.  Too long have we lived amongst those who love war and hate peace.

Julie

I like the way that you put this and I believe that you might be right. I think that the vision of the horsemen is kind of interesting because it mimics the horsemen in Revelation as well. The vision is a little different, but you see them now at a time of great revelation and the coming of Jesus and we are going to see them again when he returns.

I kind of feel like this could be a good psalm for our current time.

Day 493 - Psalm 119

 Julie

So I decided that for today's reading I am going to do something a little different. I am going to try and comment on each letter in this psalm since it is so long...

Aleph: Once we understand and learn the rules we should follow them and we will be blessed for walking the in the ways of the Lord.

Beth: It asks the question, how can we keep our way pure? We should seek him with our whole heart.

Gimel: Being a servant of the Lord should keep our eyes open and help us to receive his protection.

Daleth: Choose to be faithful to God and follow his Word.

He: Give me life in his righteousness as one who finds understanding and follows the commandments of God.

Waw: Trust in the Word of the Lord and receive the steadfast love of the Lord.

Zayin: Blessings will fall on us if we keep his commandments.

Heth: Promise to keep the Word of the Lord.

Teth: Ask the Lord to share his good judgment and knowledge and even if people treat you poorly you can delight in the fact that the Lord will protect and guide you.

Yodh: Those that fear the Lord might turn to the righteous to learn to and change. We should help those that are astray and not blame them.

Kaph: This one questions the waiting that we sometimes must go through, but God does not forsake us and will give us life.

Lamedh: Even though the wicked lie in wait to destroy, the Lord is the to protect and save those that follow him.

Mem: Praising the Word of God and having the ability to be able to live by it and use it every day.

Nun: The Lord's Word will guide us and protect us. We should freely give ourselves to the Lord.

Samekh: If we love the Word of the Lord and understand the law he has set forth and follow that he will hold us up and keep us safe. 

Ayin: Asking the Lord to deal with those who are false.

Pe: Expresses a deep love and thankfulness for the Word of God.

Tsadhe: Even though we might be experiencing trouble, we should immerse ourselves in and delight in the Word of God.

Qoph: This one is a cry for help in a feeling of despair.

Resh: The rule of the Lord is forever and he will protect and save.

Sin and Shin: Even when persecuted trust and love in the Lord.

Taw: Long for salvation and the Love of the Lord.

Michelle

I'm catching up today.  Hoping to get thru it all.  We will see how far I get.  It looks like we will soon be into the New Testament.  I like how you are going thru this psalm.  It's a long one.  

This psalm starts with blessing those that follow God's commands.  We stay on the path of purity by living according to God's word and commands.  Open my eyes to see your commands, do not hide them from me.  They are my counselors.  My soul is weary, strengthen me with your word.  Give me understanding so that I may keep your laws, direct my path and turn my heart toward you.  Trust in the word of God, never take truth from your mouth.  Keep God as your focus even when those around you are forsaking the Lord.  Though I am being pulled astray by the wicked, I will keep my promise and focus on God.  Teach me knowledge and good judgement, so that I follow you with all my heart.  May I exude your love in all I do, so that others will see your greatness.  I long for your salvation as I am persecuted.  Your faithful love endures forever.  Meditate on God's word and you will gain understanding.  Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path.  Be careful of double-minded people, rejecting all who stray from God.  Deal with your servant according to your Love.  Have mercy on me, direct my footsteps to your word and let no sin rule over me.  I am tearful to see your law not being obeyed.  Give me understanding so that I may live according to your word.  Hear me Lord, as I call out to you.  Deliver me from the faithless.  I rejoice in your promise.  When I stray, bring me back to you.  I call on you Lord, save me from lying lips and deceitful tongues.  Too long have we lived among those who hate peace.  

Day 492 - Haggai & Psalm 118

 Julie

The Lord commands them to rebuild the temple or the House of the Lord as it has been in ruins for a long time. He chastises them for working more on their own homes than his. He blesses the people and then chooses  Zerubbabel as a signet. I wasn't quite sure what that meant, but the explanation says that is choosing a people to bless through which the house of David will stand. 

His steadfast love endures forever!! This psalm has a few different lines that are used a lot: This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!

Michelle

I appreciate the explanation on that because I didn't understand it either.  But it seemed like he was making him significant in some way.  What I got from this reading is that we are to put God first in everything.  We are to make sure we take care of God's house before our own.  We are to take care of God's people before ourselves.  And he will bless us for doing so.

The ones you pointed out are in the devotional for this psalm.  And it reminded me of this weekend a little.  So many people left so quickly after the service, and I was a little disappointed.  I understand we have things going on, but this psalm made me think about it.  "In our quest to save time, we're losing something.  I thought the other day about how my grandparents valued time.  They always had time for my parents and my brothers and me; they had time for music in their home; they emphasized beautifully served meals, family reunions and long conversations.  It seemed they had time for everything in life that was important, because they took the time to live...".  There's emphasis on Rejoicing in this day and being glad in it.  We need to remember that we need to take time for these things we are losing as life keeps moving.  And God is a huge part of that time.

Day 491 - Zephaniah 2-3 & Psalm 117

 Julie

The Lord is telling Jerusalem what is going to happen to them and tells them that they will surely fear him and accept correction, but I believe he knows that they will not do that yet. He also tells them that they will be converted and he will change their speech. 

His steadfast love and faithfulness endures forever.

Michelle

 I believe you are correct; God knows that not all the people will accept correction and repent.  The devotional with this chapter has a very powerful statement and really surprised me.  "While we may have the physical comforts of a house, we still experience an indefinable, heartsick longing for home.  Even women who appear to lead the ideal life can suffer silently from feelings of alienation.  It's possible to feel displaced instead of secure in the arms of those we love.  At the end of the day, lying in bed, one can be safely home and still feel profoundly lost.  We may never experience what it's like to find our home in an earthly sense.  But then again, maybe that's just as God intended.  That homesick feeling reminds us that we're not yet really home."  This really made me think that when we are feeling like we are not home or lost or disconnected from those around us, that we are looking for the wrong thing.  We should be looking to God and making that connection in order to feel at home wherever we are.  

God's love and faithfulness endures forever.

Day 490 - Zephaniah 1 & Psalm 116

 Julie

Zephaniah talks about how God is going to destroy the people, but then also prophesies about the sacrifice the he will make for his people. I believe that he may be talking about the coming of Jesus.

This psalm seems to be one of thanks and praise for what God does in our lives. 

Michelle

The preface to this book was very powerful.  "When sin goes unchecked for any length of time, it's easy to grow complacent, to think that God will never do anything about it, that nothing will ever change.  Our tolerance for sin increases over time, and what once seemed abhorrent becomes acceptable, or at least not worth bothering with...First sin must be dealt with.  Then, and only then, is restoration possible".  Just reading this part made me think of things going on now, that seem to have become celebrated and normal.  And it's just not right.     I have been wondering the same, if this is referencing what happens before Jesus comes.  Because I don't recall the time frame between the end of the Old Testament and the birth of Jesus.  

It does seem a psalm of praise.  It says in the beginning that he loves the Lord.  It says when he was overcome with distress and sorrow, that he called on the Lord.  The part that stands out is verse 14, "I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people".  This seems to be saying we should not hide our belief, but instead share it with those around us.

Day 489 - Habakkuk & Psalm 115

 Julie

Habakkuk is complaining because he thinks God isn't hearing his prayers. However, he doesn't realize that God has been working the entire time and answering them, but in his own way and his own time. The most telling verse in this book is, "If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay." I feel like God is telling him that it will happen in time he just needs to be patient.

The Lord will bless us if we give him the glory. This psalm seems to ask the questions of those that worship idols as to why they will worship a statue that does nothing for them and not God just because they cannot physically see him. This is where faith comes in...

Michelle

The preface to this book says that Habakkuk is having a conversation with God.  I can see that as I read thru.  God seems to be answering his questions or complaints as they are described in my bible.  First, he asks God how long he must call for help before he does something and God responds, "Look and watch and be utterly amazed, for I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe".   He tells Habakkuk that he is going to use the Babylonians to exact judgement on his people.  Then, he asks God "are you not everlasting?" and then asks for mercy it seems.  God tells him that he must wait.  I think the verse you quoted is one of the most powerful in this book.  It says the revelation is coming but it will come at the appointed time.  We need only be patient.  Such a hard thing for us to do.  

You are correct about this psalm.  It does require faith.  The part that stands out is when it says, "Those who make them (the idols) will be like them, and so will all who trust in them".  

Day 488 - Nahum & Psalm 114

 Michelle

My bible says that the people of Nineveh had the chance to repent and turn from their evil ways when they were told by Jonah nearly 100 years prior.  It also, in the devotional, calls them bullies.  So, it seems that this book is speaking of what God will do to these bullies for the continued behavior against God's people and the fact that they wouldn't repent.  They focus on the fact that God is vengeful, however, he is slow to anger and has allowed them much time to change their ways.  I started to think this is a continuing ebb and flow that has happened since the dawn of time.  When the people, collectively, believe in God and follow his commands, and then a good portion of them turn from God and are punished after a long time of being told to repent.  Maybe we are in one of these times now.  

This psalm sounds like they are speaking of nature trembling at the presence of God.  I am not sure if I am understanding it correctly, but that is what is sounds like to me.

Julie

Everything that we have read up to this point really does make you think that we are in one of these times now. There are so many things happening that go against the Word of God and show that people are idolizing so many different things. What does that mean for the rest of us?

This one does seem a little confusing. The explanation says that it's a hymn of praise which celebrates the special status of Israel in God's plan.