Day 154
2 Samuel 20:14-22:20; Acts 1:1-26; Psalm 121:1-8; Proverbs 16:18
Whom Will You Serve?
During the reign of David, there was continual struggle between the Nation of Israel and the various pagan tribes. The Lord called upon David to atone for Saul’s sin in murdering the Gibeonites (who were not enemies of Israel). Even as he made restitution according to custom, David honored God by honoring his covenant with Saul’s son, Jonathan. The reading from Proverbs is a warning against the sin of pride; the Psalm is a reminder that God alone – not human striving – is the source of love and grace to those who know and obey Him.
In the Acts of the Apostles, Luke continues his narrative of Jesus’ ministry and teaching. After the Resurrection, Jesus appears and directs the disciples to wait for the coming of the Holy Spirit. As they are waiting, Peter reminds them of the reproach in Psalm 69 (which is a foreshadowing of Jesus’ arrest and torture) that the enemies of God are to be replaced with those who seek His will. The apostles prayed for God to reveal who was to replace Judas, and as they cast lots, Matthias was elected to join them.
In human history, as in the Scriptures, earthly loss or gain is only temporary. It is God alone who abides with us and will never leave us. It is God alone who will bless the work which is done in His Name. We do well to ask ourselves whether our actions are self-serving – or done in the service of God.
The Rev. Victoria L. Collins, Deacon