Daily Readings - Sat Oct 12 2019
Joel
12"Let the nations be roused; let them advance into the Valley of Jehoshaphat, for there I will sit to judge all the nations on every side.13Swing the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. Come, trample the grapes, for the winepress is full and the vats overflow- so great is their wickedness!"14Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision.15The sun and moon will be darkened, and the stars no longer shine.16The LORD will roar from Zion and thunder from Jerusalem; the earth and the sky will tremble. But the LORD will be a refuge for his people, a stronghold for the people of Israel.17"Then you will know that I, the LORD your God, dwell in Zion, my holy hill. Jerusalem will be holy; never again will foreigners invade her.18"In that day the mountains will drip new wine, and the hills will flow with milk; all the ravines of Judah will run with water. A fountain will flow out of the LORD's house and will water the valley of acacias.19But Egypt will be desolate, Edom a desert waste, because of violence done to the people of Judah, in whose land they shed innocent blood.20Judah will be inhabited forever and Jerusalem through all generations.21Their bloodguilt, which I have not pardoned, I will pardon." The LORD dwells in Zion!
Sermon
In today’s readings, we journey through themes of judgment, restoration, and the true nature of blessedness. The passage from Joel paints a vivid picture of God’s judgment in the valley of Jehoshaphat, where nations are gathered to face divine reckoning. Amidst the turmoil, God’s presence brings hope to His people, culminating in a vision of restoration where the land flourishes, and His house becomes a fountain of life. This prophecy underscores God’s balance of justice and mercy, reminding us that His judgment leads to renewal.
In Luke, Jesus shifts the focus from physical lineage to spiritual obedience. When a woman praises His mother, Jesus emphasizes that true blessedness comes not from fleshly ties but from hearing and keeping God’s word. This teaching, set amidst Jesus’ ministry, highlights the importance of living according to divine will.
Together, these passages invite us to reflect on our relationship with God. Joel’s prophecy and Jesus’ teaching converge on the necessity of obedience. Just as Joel’s restoration follows judgment, our obedience to God’s word paves the way for experiencing His presence and hope. In daily life, this means prioritizing spiritual practices and aligning our actions with God’s teachings. By doing so, we find true blessedness—a state of grace that transcends earthly challenges, offering hope and renewal. Let us embrace this call to obedience, allowing God’s word to guide us toward a life of purpose and peace.