Genesis 3:1-4:26; Matthew 2:13-3:6; Psalm 2:1-12; Proverbs 1:7-9
My daughter Elizabeth was born today 2 years ago. We prayed for a delay on her birth date through Christmas and New Years. We didn't want her to have to share her birthday with a holiday for the rest of her life. She should have her very own day. So, here it is, January 2nd, not really a special day, after all the holidays and excitement. The first ordinary day after all the fun. But what a special day for me. What a special day for Elizabeth. And isn't it just like that with the Lord? Each day is a new and special day.
My daughter Elizabeth was born today 2 years ago. We prayed for a delay on her birth date through Christmas and New Years. We didn't want her to have to share her birthday with a holiday for the rest of her life. She should have her very own day. So, here it is, January 2nd, not really a special day, after all the holidays and excitement. The first ordinary day after all the fun. But what a special day for me. What a special day for Elizabeth. And isn't it just like that with the Lord? Each day is a new and special day.
Even this day in which
we read about sin entering the world. We could read the account of the
first temptation and original sin and feel discouraged or saddened by this
day. Was this a bad day for humanity? A day to be disregarded and
passed over? Or did God still have a grander plan in mind? Satan
has not won, as it may first appear. As we keep reading in Matthew, we
see God has already started his plan for redemption and the forgiveness of
sins. "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near," John
the Baptist proclaims in Matthew 3:2. One is coming who can redeem even
the darkest of days.
Be encouraged this
day. Each day is in God's mind, and it is good. Even on the day
that could arguably have been the worst day in human history (how much worse
could our day be than that?), God still shows His great love and greater plan
for redemption. As we go through each day, we can "prepare the way for the
Lord, make straight paths for him" (Mt. 3:3). Evil and sin are not
victorious. We should not live as if they are. "Blessed are all
who take refuge in him" (Ps. 2:12).
Lord, may we trust you
and look for your redemption and goodness in each and every day. They are all
special in your eyes.
-Mary Matthias
Thank you for this Mary, it was very encouraging to me. The last sentence is really one to ponder. I think looking (asking to see?) God's redemption no matter what the day brings is key to victorious daily living. I see from today's reading that redemption was not a one time event, but is ongoing in our lives!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Marsha. You bring some good truth and reflection as well. Praise be to God for his redeeming work!
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