Day 280 – The People of the Covenant
Thoughts and Reflection Today we read about the people of Israel defending themselves and killing a lot of people. They don’t take plunder even though they were allowed to do so. In a world that was broken at this time, this was a bit of justice and hope. Soon the Maccabean revolt will be upon…
Day 279 – Blessings and Burdens
Thoughts and Reflection Today we read about the people cast lots to see who will live in Jerusalem. Everyone in the twelve tribes of Israel was given something; however, much of the story itself has been of betrayal with many being foolish or wicked. The prophets say that the people would not be judged for…
Day 278 – Power in Weakness
Thoughts and Reflection Today we read about idolatry again in the Divided Kingdom. Remember the people of Israel who had been brought into the covenant with the Lord, quickly turned their backs to him and worship local gods and idols. As they sign on to the new covenant with the Lord, they have to choose…
Day 277 – Such a Time as This
Thoughts and Reflection Today we read Ezra instructs the people about their history reminding them of what the Lord has done for them. All of the good things that have happened in their lives are because of God while they are responsible for the bad things. In Esther, we cannot place the glory of God…
Day 276 – Haman’s Plan
Thoughts and Reflection Today we read that the people weep when Nehemiah and Ezra teach them the Law of God. This reflects their relationship with the Lord. They realize that there is a God who knows and loves them. Just like us today, we may understand we are the sons or daughters of God but…
Day 275 – Esther Becomes Queen
Thoughts and Reflection Today we read the return of exiles. Nehemiah has many different plots against him by his enemies. He is asked to meet in a village, but Nehemiah has a great response — he is doing important work and cannot come. People can attempt to get us to stop doing God’s will. We…
Day 274 – Perseverance in Opposition
Thoughts and Reflections Today we read that every mission of God is going to experience opposition. The Jews are being ridiculed and attacked as they rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The response is to pray to our God and set a guard as protection. Nehemiah shows that he trusts the Lord but he is also…
Day 273 – The Lord’s Work
Thoughts and Reflection Today we read the conclusion of Zechariah. There is a promise – on the day of the Lord he will redeem the earth. Those who have been under the heel of others will be vindicated. Everyone’s deeds shall be known. Nehemiah does the Lord’s work. When he encounters difficulty and opposition, he…
Day 272 – The Call of Nehemiah
Thoughts and Reflections Today we read about Jerusalem’s restoration. Zechariah writes 500 years before Jesus comes, he tells us of mourning for “him whom they have pierced.” Jesus was pierced on the cross for us. In Nehemiah, we see a third wave of the people’s return to the Holy Land. The walls of Jerusalem have…
Day 271 – Israel’s Foreign Wives
Thoughts and Reflection Today we read Ezra returns to the Holy Land. When he returns he finds that many people have intermarried. The Lord warned the people about not marrying non-Jewish spouses. God’s people were to be set apart and called to live differently. The people intermarrying weakens the bond of the Convent and losing…