Dearest e-votees-
Day sixty-one of our cover to cover voyage through the Bible. If you want to see the readings for our trip through the Bible you can follow this link:
Peace,
Karl
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Day 61 Readings: Ezekiel 23:40-35:15
Many more images and prophecies to be had today about the destruction of powerful and violent empires. Violence begets violence. Boasting begets humbling. Destruction begets destruction. Assyria, Tyre, Sidon, Moab, Egypt, Babylon, etc., etc. all suffer fates of being laid low (literally and metaphorically). All who trust in their own power and ability and resources eventually come to naught.
Our culture teaches, too often, for us to rely on our own strength and ambition. We are encouraged to win at practically any cost. We are encouraged to be strong and tough and to take no prisoners. That emphasis on winning at all costs may well be our undoing. The emphasis on the one in the mirror can lead to disastrous results. There is a different and better way.
Near the end of today's reading is an rebuke of the faithless shepherds that have mistreated the lambs of Israel. We perhaps have been mistreated or misled or poorly cared for by those called to serve as a shepherd for us. But there is one who self-identifies as the "good shepherd". This one knows his sheep and his sheep know his voice. He is not like the hired hand. He lays down his life for the sheep. Jesus is the one who will lead us. He will not lead us as a triumphant military leader. He will show us how his kingdom is ushered in. His kingdom is not like those of this world--thanks be to God for that.
God, guide and direct us. Continue to speak your voice to us. Give us ears and hearts to listen and follow. Amen.
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