Today's readings are Malachi 3.6-4.6 and Matthew 4.12-25.
Our Lord makes two things crystal clear in Malachi today. First, God doesn't change. He has always been the very same merciful and loving God who rejoices in the repentance of his people, pouring out his loving forgiveness on them. Second, fallen people don't change either. we are always turning aside from God, departing from the faithfulness we pledge, failing to love and trust him perfectly. In effect, the entire Bible is about those two concepts. God is faithful and is always quite himself. We are always unfaithful, in need of a Lord who is loving and gracious.
In the opening of chapter 4 of Malachi, God promises to send his prophet Elijah, who will turn people's hearts, with the ultimate result that they will be turned back to God in repentance.
Lord, you who never change, give us a heart to trust in your eternal lovingkindness. May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. We pray this through Jesus Christ, who ever reigns with You and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Our Lord makes two things crystal clear in Malachi today. First, God doesn't change. He has always been the very same merciful and loving God who rejoices in the repentance of his people, pouring out his loving forgiveness on them. Second, fallen people don't change either. we are always turning aside from God, departing from the faithfulness we pledge, failing to love and trust him perfectly. In effect, the entire Bible is about those two concepts. God is faithful and is always quite himself. We are always unfaithful, in need of a Lord who is loving and gracious.
In the opening of chapter 4 of Malachi, God promises to send his prophet Elijah, who will turn people's hearts, with the ultimate result that they will be turned back to God in repentance.
Lord, you who never change, give us a heart to trust in your eternal lovingkindness. May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. We pray this through Jesus Christ, who ever reigns with You and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
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Dave Spotts
blogging at http://capnsaltyslongvoyage.blogspot.com
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