TODAY IN THE WORD

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Genesis 45:1-15; 50:14-21
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good. - Genesis 50:20
TODAY IN THE WORD
Why are the innocent victimized? Where is God in the midst of evil and suffering? These questions arise when we consider the reality of injustice in our world. We began this month’s study devoted to understanding God’s character and work; He defends, cares for, and restores the vulnerable and marginalized, and He is righteous judge, king, creator, and redeemer. Now let’s turn our attention to examples of God’s character at work in the lives of people who faced suffering and injustice.

Joseph could be a poster child for a life fraught with injustice at every turn. As you read Joseph’s story, notice parallels and repeated themes. Joseph is favored by his father, so his jealous brothers plot to kill him and sell him into slavery (Genesis 37). Joseph is favored by Potiphar, whose seductive wife falsely accuses Joseph and has him thrown into prison (Genesis 39). Joseph is favored by the prison warden and promoted to a position of authority (39:21-23). While in prison, Joseph interprets the dreams of Pharaoh’s servants, but misses his jailbreak opportunity when the cup-bearer forgets to vouch for him (Genesis 40). He remains in prison two more years (41:1)! Yet when he interprets Pharaoh’s dreams, Joseph receives the promotion of a lifetime. As the predicted famine spreads, Joseph’s brothers travel to Egypt to buy food. After several perplexing exchanges between Joseph and his brothers, several trips back and forth from Canaan to Egypt, Joseph finally reveals his true identity, initiates reconciliation with his family, and reunites with his father, Jacob (Genesis 43-46).

Beyond favoritism, promotion, deceit, and maltreatment, another essential thread runs through Joseph’s biography. In the midst of suffering and injustice, God is with Joseph (39:2-3, 21, 23; 41:38-39), and Joseph recognized God’s power, presence, and providence (39:5-9; 40:8; 41:16-28, 32; 45:5-7). “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” (50:20).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
God upheld Joseph’s cause; He freed him from enslavement and prison and frustrated the plans of the wicked (Ps. 146:7-9). God even worked through Joseph’s suffering to save many. When you experience pain or injustice, Christ is present with you, too. If you or someone you love is experiencing difficult circumstances, pray to know God’s presence. Also, celebrate God’s work to transform these circumstances from what the Evil One intends into something redemptive through Christ.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Exodus 3:1-10
But you, O God, do see trouble and grief; you consider it to take it in hand. - Psalm 10:14
TODAY IN THE WORD
According to International Justice Mission, “Bonded slavery is the continual labor of individuals forced to work by mental or physical threat.” Bonded slaves are forced to work long hours for scant or no wages, often in poor conditions, and they are frequently beaten and abused. In 2009, an estimated 27 million women, children, and men all over the world today are held as bonded slaves, child soldiers, and in sexual servitude.

Does the Bible have anything relevant to say about this? Absolutely yes. Yesterday we considered Joseph, one man who faced injustice, and God’s work in his life. Today’s passage introduces the story of a whole group of God’s people who experienced both slavery and God’s salvation.

The Israelites of today’s passage were held in slavery by their Egyptian oppressors, much like modern-day bonded slaves. The beginning of the book of Exodus notes that the Egyptians began to feel threatened by the number of Joseph’s descendants. A new Egyptian king, who did not know about Joseph, enslaved them under brutal working conditions. He even ordered that all Hebrew males be killed at birth (Exodus 1). Moses was one Israelite baby who escaped death and enslavement and was even reared in the royal palace. As an adult, however, Moses witnessed the bondage of his people and killed an Egyptian oppressor, which forced him to flee to Midian (Exodus 2). Despite these events, God heard the cries of the Israelites and remembered His covenant of love with them (Ex. 2:23-25).

God appeared to Moses “in flames of fire from within a bush” (v. 2). He declared that He was not blind nor deaf to the suffering of the Israelites (v. 7). He did not ignore their misery, enslavement, and suffering at the hands of the oppressive Egyptians. He said twice that “now” is the time He will act (vv. 9-10). What will God do in the face of this injustice? It is not enough simply to free them from this situation. He also promised to reestablish them (v. 8). Amazingly, God recruits Moses to join His rescue mission (v. 10).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The claims that we read in the Psalms are not simply good-sounding rhetoric. God does not forget the helpless. He listens to the cry of the afflicted and calls the wicked to account (Ps. 10:12-18). He also invites everyday people, like Moses and like you, to join His rescue mission. God’s people are joining His mission today to abolish modern-day slavery. If you are interested in learning more and getting involved, consider the work of Christian organizations like International Justice Mission, World Vision, and Not for Sale.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Exodus 21:2-11; 22:21-27; 23:1-11
The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern. - Proverbs 29:7
TODAY IN THE WORD
When the Israelites arrived at Mount Sinai, God declared: “If you obey me fully and keep my covenant, you will be for me . . . and a holy nation” (vv. 3-6). God’s rescued people needed to live as a testament to Him before the nations, a calling contingent upon their obedience to God and faithfulness to His covenant. To illustrate this, God outlines a steadfast life. The Ten Commandments identify general instructions regarding love for God (Ex. 20:2-11) and neighbor (20:12-17). The Book of the Law follows the Commandments (Ex. 20:22-23:33) and outlines righteous living in various settings and relationships. Our texts today are situated within this Book of the Law.

Exodus 21:2-11 addresses treatment of Hebrew servants. For ancient Israel, indebted labor allowed people to escape poverty and destitution as a means of economic debt recovery. A Hebrew male became a servant because of bankrupt parents, personal indigence, or to make restitution for theft. A Hebrew female became a servant if her father was unable to supply a sufficient dowry. Old Testament law ensured that these servants were not abused, oppressed, or deprived of justice. God instituted provisions for them to be released from debt “without paying anything” (21:2, 11).

Exodus 22:21-27 prohibits mistreatment of vulnerable people. Foreigners lacked support from family; widows and orphans lacked protection from husband and father. God advocates directly for them as their compassionate protector and defender (22:23-24, 27). He expects the same from His people. Exodus 23:1-11 forbids various forms of injustice such as false testimony, denying legal rights to the poor, and taking bribes.

There are two theological reasons for obedience. First, the Israelites know what it is like to be victims of injustice and oppression, so they must treat others justly out of empathy and common humanity (22:21; 23:9). Second, the Lord is compassionate and just (22:27; 23:6), and God’s people are to imitate Him.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
One counter-cultural teaching of Jesus is love of enemies (Matt. 5:44-48). Here Jesus is consistent with the Old Testament. Consider Exodus 23:4-5, for example. If you find what is valuable to your enemy, return it to him. Care about the interests of those who hate you. Jesus tells us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. In this way, we reflect our Savior: “While we were still sinners, [God’s enemies], Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8).

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Leviticus 25:8-55
The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. - Psalm 24:1
TODAY IN THE WORD
Dave Ramsey, American financial advisor famous for his strategies for eliminating debt, saving for the future, and generous giving, hosts a live show,

God made the seventh day of creation holy, setting it aside for rest (Gen. 2:2). He provided a weekly sabbath for His people (Ex. 20:8-11). God also ordained a year of sabbath rest for the land, every seventh year (Lev. 25:1-7). Today’s reading explains that the 50th year was to be a Year of Jubilee when freedom was granted to land and people in extraordinary ways (vv. 8-10).

First, land was returned to the original owner according to Moses’ land distribution (vv. 10, 13). Two theological motivations underlie the redistribution of land: The Lord owned the land, Israel only stewarded it (v. 23). And Israel’s covenant relationship with God transformed how they related to one another: they “do not take advantage of one another” (vv. 14-17)

Second, in Jubilee the land remained fallow for the year. God’s people had to trust Him for provision (vv. 11-12, 20-22). Third, Hebrew servants were released from indebted labor, which implied cancellation of their debts (vv. 39-55). The people were reminded that they had been redeemed from harsh slavery. God is compassionate, and they belonged to God, not other humans (vv. 42-43, 55).

Notice the phrase, “if one of your countrymen becomes poor,” appears three times (vv. 25, 35, 39). God outlined provisions for those stricken with poverty so that they will be cared for and not mistreated and then finally restored at the time of Jubilee. The backdrop of the Year of Jubilee is God as sovereign, merciful Creator and Redeemer. Jubilee was to be a foretaste of future life in God’s kingdom where there is no poverty or debt, and where our relationships with others and with God’s creation are reconciled.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Intrinsic to God’s kingdom is compassion, justice, and reconciliation—because God is merciful, righteous, and forgiving. As for the Israelites, our relationship with God transforms our relationships with other people so that we reflect the character of God and His kingdom. Our instinct is to keep track of debts and hold grudges. Ask the Lord if there is someone in your life whose debts or trespasses against you need your forgiveness. Find joy and rest for your soul by reflecting God’s character through this regular practice.

[Soldier4Christ]

Friday, July 9, 2010
Read: Deuteronomy 10:12-22; 24:10-22
The ways of the LORD are right; the righteous walk in them. - Hosea 14:9
TODAY IN THE WORD
While speaking to a group of business school students at a prominent American university, a retired executive described that there is no such thing as business ethics. Rather, he continued, there are simply ethical people in business. The successful businessman explained how following Jesus had transformed his relationships with others in all aspects of his life, including business. In our passage today, justice in one’s business and personal life reflects a right relationship with God.

Deuteronomy 10:12-22 is Moses’ passionate plea that the Israelites would wholeheartedly love and obey God. Moses reminds the people that God is the sovereign creator who forged a special relationship with them. To “walk in all his ways” is not primarily about compulsion. It is about a loving response to God in the context of their covenant relationship with Him (vv. 12-13). God’s people are called to “circumcise” their hearts, to renounce hardheartedness in exchange for hearts that reflect His love, mercy, and forgiveness (vv. 16-22). Once again, God’s love for the disadvantaged in society is highlighted (vv. 18-19). Moses reminds them that they know what it is like to be a foreigner in Egypt, and they know what it is like to experience the Lord’s salvation and protection. Therefore, love those who are “aliens” among you, sojourners, immigrants, and refugees.

Deuteronomy 24:10-22 describes specific ways in which God’s people are instructed to emulate His love for vulnerable people in the community. The passage is concerned with the poor who need loans and live paycheck to paycheck hoping to stay afloat (vv. 10-15). It also considers the refugee, immigrant, orphan, and widow who have no social safety net to rely upon for provision and protection (vv. 17-22). The instructions to care for these people reflect God’s patience, compassion, and generosity, and they preserve people’s dignity and prevent exploitation. Caring for the poor and weak is pleasing in God’s sight and embodies what it means to be “righteous” (v. 13). In fact, neglecting this kind of care is called sin in verse 15.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
From a worldly perspective, the behavior advocated in today’s reading is risky and even laughable. Walking in God’s ways requires trust and cultivating a generous, compassionate heart like His. Let the Holy Spirit search your heart and expose any fears you may have that keep you from living justly in your business and personal life. Renounce whatever prevents you from recognizing God as faithful and trustworthy (10:16-17). Ask God to reveal specific ways you can reflect His love, mercy, and forgiveness to vulnerable people.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: 1 Kings 10:1-12
Give your servant a discerning heart . . . to distinguish between right and wrong. - 1 Kings 3:9
TODAY IN THE WORD
Giles Foden’s novel, The Last King of Scotland, portrays the gruesome injustices of Uganda’s former dictator, Idi Amin, infamous for political and economic atrocities and horrific ethnic persecution during his eight-year reign. Amin is only one among innumerable human rulers who epitomize the absolute opposite of God’s will for a king.

We learned from Exodus and Deuteronomy that God’s people were expected to reflect His righteousness, justice, and care for vulnerable people in society. After the generation of Israelites who entered the Promised Land died, God raised up judges to govern the people who had become increasingly disobedient and idolatrous (Judges 2:10-17). Yet, God’s people did not maintain justice and righteousness as He commanded, nor did their leaders (21:25); the Israelites eventually requested a king to reign over them (1 Samuel 8). The Lord appointed Saul to be the first king, then David, and then David’s son, Solomon. Solomon is Israel’s king referenced in today’s reading. When the Queen of Sheba heard of Solomon’s wisdom and fame, she visited him. Though a foreigner, she clearly understood God’s purposes for Israel’s king.

By the fruit she saw—Solomon’s wisdom, wealth, and fame—the Queen of Sheba recognized that the God of Israel delighted in Solomon. Let’s consider two things she said to King Solomon. First, she connected God’s eternal love for Israel with Solomon’s ascent to the throne. The reference to God’s eternal love echoes back to Yahweh’s original covenant with His people (cf. Deut. 7:9; 1 Chron. 17:22). God has not given up on His people. Because of His faithful love for them, He appointed a king who reflected His love. Second, the Queen noted God’s purposes for anointing Solomon as king. The role of Israel’s king was to demonstrate and administer God’s justice and righteousness. In a way, God was renewing and reestablishing the role of Adam in the Garden as God’s vice-regent on earth (Gen. 1:26-28); He was raising up a leader to lead His wayward people in His ways.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Idi Amin ruled in Uganda in the 1970s, and unjust rulers persist in the world today. The apostle Paul instructs us to intercede in prayer for kings and all those in authority (1 Tim. 2:2). In your prayer time today, pray for global leaders to maintain God’s justice and righteousness. Pray particularly for those who work against God’s will, that God would rescue the people under their harsh rule and that they themselves would come to know the light and life of Jesus Christ.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Psalm 72:1-20
Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead for the case of the widow. - Isaiah 1:17
TODAY IN THE WORD
In the fall of 2009, Kushan, his wife, and seven others enslaved by bonded labor in a rice mill in India were freed through the tireless advocacy and work of International Justice Mission (IJM), a Christian-based human rights agency that secures justice for those oppressed through bonded labor, sexual slavery, and child trafficking. Our text today motivates Christians, like IJM staff, who courageously answer God’s call to pursue justice and righteousness until Jesus comes again.

Verse 20 indicates that David wrote this psalm for his son, Solomon. David makes three main petitions on behalf of Solomon, who is next in line to inherit the throne. First, David asks God to equip Solomon to rule with justice and righteousness (vv. 1-3). Second, David requests protection and deference from enemies and other nations (vv. 8-11). Third, David desires a long life for Solomon filled with God’s favor and blessing (vv. 5, 15, 17). David fully acknowledges God’s sovereignty, goodness, and glory (vv. 18-19).

He describes what ruling with justice and righteousness entails (v. 4). The king protects victims and guarantees justice for them; he rescues helpless children from exploitation and harm; his justice and righteousness disarm and disable the oppressors in society. Verse 12 begins with For, here meaning “because.” The reason that the kings of other nations revere and serve the king of Israel and that his enemies are humbled before him is precisely because he defends the afflicted and delivers the oppressed (vv. 12-14).

A king who reigns like this will be “like showers watering the earth” (v. 6). His justice and righteousness will nourish the whole world and bring forth new life. David affirms that only God can empower a king to lead like Him (v. 18), and when he does, the world will witness God’s presence and glory (v. 19). Caring for the needs that concern the heart of God will direct others to His saving power.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The king is to defend and deliver “the afflicted who have no one to help” (vv. 4, 12). God’s people also share this responsibility. Learn more about the International Justice Mission and hear stories of bringing justice in the name of Jesus to the enslaved and oppressed: www.ijm.org. The Web site suggests ways to get involved, to become more educated about what Scripture says about injustice as well as be informed about injustice in the world today.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Isaiah 1:1-23
They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. - Titus 1:16
TODAY IN THE WORD
The prophet Isaiah received visions from the Lord during the reigns of four kings of Judah (approximately 740-698 B.C.). His visions are recorded in the book of Isaiah. Presumably, Isaiah 1 was written after the Assyrians ravaged the countryside of Judah, leaving only Jerusalem standing in 701 B.C. (vv. 7-9). By this point in Judah’s history, those in power had developed a system of heavy economic burdens imposed upon the weak. Vulnerable people were denied justice and the religious practices of the day legitimized and perpetuated the injustices.

As we read Isaiah 1, we become like observers in a court of law. Today’s reading is the Lord’s indictment upon Judah. Pay attention to the emotions and tone of the passage: anger, displeasure, hostility, and intense frustration. Judah is sinful and estranged from God. They have rebelled against their Father (v. 2); they are shamefully compared with animals (v. 3); they instinctively do evil and have completely turned against the LORD (v. 4). The “survivors” were the only hope of redemption from this sober situation (v. 9).

Why is the Lord so outraged with His people? Let’s look at verses 10 through 17. The people of Judah think they’re fulfilling worship; but the Lord charges them with hypocritical worship (vv. 13-14). Their sacrifices, prayers, and rituals are meaningless to God because their behavior does not match up. Their “evil deeds” are identified as injustice, exploitation of the oppressed, and denying support to those without social safety nets (vv. 16-17). God does not mince words. This behavior disgusts Him, reflects a sinful heart, and results in hollow worship.

It is not simply that seeking justice is a bonus to worship. Rather, pleasing worship is impossible apart from seeking justice. God calls for repentance and change and warns of the consequences of further disobedience (vv. 18-23).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Today’s reading is a solemn reminder that God looks beyond church attendance and daily prayer. We cannot claim to worship God and then ignore—or participate in the oppression of—the vulnerable members of our society. True worship reflects His heart by seeking justice on their behalf. As you reflect on Isaiah 1, repent for ways that you and your Christian community might be like Judah. Ask God to reveal injustice in your midst and align your heart with His through tangible action.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Isaiah 58:1-12
Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice . . . to set the oppressed free? - Isaiah 58:6
TODAY IN THE WORD
In Daniel’s native country, a succession of deficient harvests launched a crisis in the subsistence farming economy in which his family and neighbors had lived for generations. Daniel was forced to borrow money at exorbitant interest rates to purchase seed and supplies for upcoming harvests. Unable to repay this debt, Daniel was driven to place his family in indentured service to lenders. Eventually, Daniel lost the land they depended on for survival and had farmed for decades. Daniel’s experience was true in the days of Isaiah, and it continues to be a familiar scenario today for people from countries like Guatemala, Uganda, Vietnam, Mexico, and Nigeria who farm crops such as coffee and cocoa beans (for chocolate). Today’s passage connects the fasting and worship of God’s people to their call to undo the conditions that create situations like Daniel’s.

Verse 2 initially seems like an ideal description of God’s people, but verse 1 indicates that something was seriously wrong. The people noticed that God was unresponsive to what they passed off as sincere devotion to Him (v. 3). Like in yesterday’s reading, God declared that their religious practices were unacceptable because their behavior belied the condition of their hearts. They couldn’t fast and simultaneously mistreat their employees, argue with one another, and ignore injustice and oppression around them (v. 5). The LORD clarified the kind of fasting He desired: liberating people from what oppresses them, providing for those in need, and denying oneself for the sake of the vulnerable (vv. 6-7, 9-10).

If God’s people began worshiping Him in this way, the result would be extraordinary. God promises that if you fight for justice and serve the poor, “then” your own healing will begin, the darkness of your looming enemies will end, and you will be protected by righteousness and glory. God will not forsake you; He will provide for you; you will be restored, and you will flourish (vv. 10-12).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
To pretend that people like Daniel and their stories of injustice are not real, to convince ourselves that this is someone else’s problem, or simply to wish that all the brokenness would just disappear are not acceptable responses if we follow Jesus as our Lord and Savior (see Luke 10:25-37). To learn how to act responsibly and wisely in a world marked by poverty and injustice, read When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself by Brian Fikkert and Steve Corbett.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezekiel 16:35-63
Who is like you, O LORD? You rescue the poor from those too strong for them, the poor and needy from those who rob them. - Psalm 35:10
TODAY IN THE WORD
One of the prayers in The Book of Common Prayer expresses confession like this: “We have left undone those things which we ought to have done; and we have done those things which we ought not to have done.” Today’s reading emphasizes Sodom’s sins of omission—but surprisingly, the point here is not to condemn Sodom but rather convict the people of God.

We first learn about the reputation of Sodom in Genesis 13:13: “The men of Sodom were wicked and were sinning greatly against the LORD.” Genesis 19 records the infamous account of the men of Sodom seeking to attack God’s messengers who were staying with Lot and the subsequent destruction of the city. Sodom is mentioned almost 50 times in the Bible, predominantly as a negative example of complete punishment for flamboyant sin without contrition. Like Jude, we often identify Sodom’s sin primarily as impurity and lust: “Sodom . . . gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion” (v. 7).

Rather unexpectedly, the LORD speaks through the prophet Ezekiel about the sins of Sodom in our passage today. The emphasis here is not on their sexual perversion; instead, Sodom is condemned for her injustice. The people were arrogant and overfed while others were hungry and impoverished.

Ezekiel brings up Sodom to shame God’s people: Sodom was never as wicked as you are; you have surpassed them in sinfulness (vv. 47-48). Sodom, that city condemned and destroyed for its depravity, ends up as an indictment of Judah. They love other gods; they worship idols; they involve their children in betraying God their Savior (v. 36). Their hearts are turned away from God and neighbor. They serve only themselves.

Injustice is widespread. Ezekiel 16:49 succinctly reminds us that it is sinful to provide abundantly for yourselves while ignoring the needy in your community. God clearly rebukes His people for self-love that has replaced love of neighbor.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Our consumer-driven, self-focused culture is not unlike that of the 6th century B.C., and it is just as easy to point the finger of blame away from ourselves. God says, “what a sick heart you have” (Ezek. 16:30, NLT). Our hearts’ sickness has not changed in 2,500 years. The only cure is salvation and transformation through Jesus’ death and resurrection. In order to throw off the sins of injustice present in your personal life, you must follow Jesus in love for God and love for neighbor.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Jeremiah 22:1-17
“Is that not what it means to know me?” declares the LORD. - Jeremiah 22:16
TODAY IN THE WORD
In 1993, Baptist missionary Keith Grimes visited Kalingalinga, Zambia. He recruited their singing boys to tour the United States, naming them the Zambian Acappella Boys Choir and promising them salaries, health care, and education in return. The Choir toured churches and generated millions of dollars in donations—but it was a scam. Not one penny was given to any of the boys, and they were held in restrictive conditions under threat of deportation. Several local church members who attended concerts in Texas and Louisiana grew suspicious and requested criminal investigations. Finally in 2000, a judgment for nearly $1 million was handed down against the Grimes family for unpaid wages for 67 Zambian boys.

In today’s text, benefitting from exploited labor clearly does not please God, and there are consequences for people who practice oppression. We have learned that God entrusted Israel’s kings with maintaining His justice and righteousness, yet both Israel and her kings were better known for injustice and idolatry.

Today’s passage records a direct message from the Lord to Jehoiakim, one of Judah’s kings. Like his brother Shallum before him, he had disregarded the reforms of his father, Josiah (2 Kings 23:31-37). Jeremiah begins with a reminder: the one who sits on David’s throne is to enact justice and righteousness; he is to rescue the maltreated and defend the innocent (vv. 2-3). Then he states a promise and a warning. If you are not the kind of king God desires, your palace—symbolic for your whole reign—will be destroyed (vv. 4-8). This is the consequence of ignoring the covenant made with their compassionate God (v. 9).

Verses 13 through 17 contrast two kinds of kings. One king pads his pockets through unjust means. He uses his countrymen like slaves (vv. 13-14). His eyes and heart are corrupt and greedy; he disregards the rights and health of his employees (v. 17). This is God’s description of Jehoiakim. Josiah, on the other hand, understood that God is the provider who cares for those who obey Him. Josiah regarded the concerns of the poor and needy (vv. 15-16).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The power of the ancient king is now distributed into the hands of everyday people. The Zambian boys were released only after intervention from regular people sitting in church pews. Concerned Women for America encourages women across the country to advocate for just enforcement of laws to protect the thousands of women and children who are sexually trafficked in the United States every year. Our decisions and actions matter and can impact the lives of those held in bondage.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Isaiah 11:1-10
The Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples; the nations will rally to him, and his place of rest will be glorious. - Isaiah 11:10
TODAY IN THE WORD
Picture a disarmed rifle converted into a working guitar. Colombian musician and peace activist, Cesar Lopez, envisioned this after a deadly terrorist attack in Bógota in 2003. One of his escopetarras is displayed at the United Nations’ permanent exhibition on disarmament in New York as a symbol of peace for the whole world. Lopez explains: “The fact that a weapon is transformed in such a radical way speaks of the possibility the whole planet has to change, even if it seems absurd.” Today’s passage points us to the reality of the new creation where agents of violence will become representatives of peace.

The Lord makes clear His displeasure with rulers who tolerate and perpetuate injustice (Isa. 10:1-4). Yet there is hope for God’s people. The prophet Isaiah tells of a small group who will survive His judgment, destruction, and exile (10:20-23). The “stump” is symbolic of this remnant of survivors (11:1). Isaiah prophesies that from the remnant of David’s descendants, God will raise up someone to reclaim the throne of King David to restore justice and righteousness (vv. 1-5). This new king will not rule like the unfaithful kings of old. Rather, by the Spirit’s wisdom and power He will rule with justice and righteousness on behalf of the poor and needy, and He will not tolerate the wicked.

The result of this new king’s rule is described in verses 6 through 8: a leopard stretched out with a goat resting peacefully on the leopard’s belly, a toddler playing near a cobra’s nest without danger of harm. Once dangerous predators are at peace with former prey, and the safety of a little child is mentioned twice. Remember the predators we have read about this month who overburden their employees and deprive workers their wages, who mistreat the weak in society and ignore injustice? Imagine their weapons of oppression being disarmed and replaced with attitudes and behaviors that protect the helpless. This is the kind of total transformation effected by the new Davidic king.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Verse 9 explains the grounds for such dramatic changes: “The earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord.” The anointing of the Spirit generates knowledge and fear of the Lord in the new king (v. 2). Then, King Jesus gives us the gift of His Spirit to dwell in us, to teach us His grace and truth, and to empower us to live for Him. As you grow to know God more deeply each day, one suggestion is to read Revelation: The Glorified Christ by Woodrow Kroll.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 1:46-55
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given. - Isaiah 9:6
TODAY IN THE WORD
Probably every mother has a story of how she realized that she was going to have a child. Rebecca knew when she felt dizzy at the park; Lillian knew when the nausea hit; Stacy knew when the social worker called with the news that the birth mother had selected her to adopt her daughter. But imagine if an angel told you that you would miraculously conceive, your baby would be the long-awaited Davidic king, and your cousin affirmed this revelation through blessing (Luke 1:26-45)! This was Mary’s experience, and today’s reading is her response to the remarkable news.

The famous title of Mary’s Song, Magnificat, originates from the first word of the Latin version of this passage: magnify. “My soul magnifies the Lord!” Mary sings. Her response is praise, and the remainder of her song explains why (vv. 47-55).

Notice throughout Mary’s song, the primary actor is God. For who He is and what He does, the Lord is worthy of praise. Mary rehearses God’s mercy to her personally (vv. 48-49). She highlights the contrast: the Mighty One, holy and exalted, is mindful of one inconsequential young woman. God’s activity reverses her situation; Mary goes from humble servant to blessed forever by all generations.

Verse 50 connects the two sections of her song, and then Mary shifts to proclaim God’s mercy to Abraham’s descendants (vv. 51-55). “Mighty deeds” and “outstretched arm” echo back to God’s rescue of His people out of Egypt. Mary recognizes God as deliverer, and she knows the news of her baby is news of God’s deliverance. God’s redemption turns things upside down. Notice what happens to the proud, the rulers, and the rich compared to the humble and the hungry (vv. 51-53). The end of Mary’s song ties Gabriel’s announcement to God’s ancient covenant with Abraham and his descendants. God will be faithful to His promises; He will be merciful (vv. 54-55). Mary understands that the birth of her baby Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises of redemption. Jesus is the new king we read about yesterday.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The structure of verses 52 and 53 draws our attention to them. God’s action toward the rulers and rich is mentioned first and last, with His mercy toward the humble and hungry announced in the middle. In Jesus, God is transforming people and social structures that exalt self-absorption and wealth to the exclusion and at the expense of the poor. God humbles the proud to reveal their need of Him and to soften their hearts toward others. Allow God to humble you so that He can then fill you with good things.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 4:14-30
I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations. - Isaiah 42:1
TODAY IN THE WORD
When American Idol winner, David Cook, returned to his hometown, 10,000 tickets sold out instantly, buttons and t-shirts adorned hysterical fans, and the city buzzed with excitement. David took center stage at his former high school where admirers gathered to pay homage to their hometown hero. In every sense of the show’s title, David is the American idol of Blue Springs, Missouri. In our reading today, when Jesus stepped into the limelight in his old neighborhood, the locals were not as welcoming.

After 40 days in the wilderness, Jesus traveled to the region of Galilee and began teaching in the synagogue. His fame spread quickly, and the general public praised Him (v. 15). When Jesus arrived in His hometown, He visited the synagogue on the Sabbath. He stood up, took the scroll, and unrolled it (vv. 16-17). Later, the actions are exactly reversed: Jesus rolled up the scroll, gave it back, and sat down (v. 20). This detail highlights what happens in between: Jesus reads from Isaiah 61:1-3. Jesus declared that He has come to announce good news to the poor, imprisoned, blind, and oppressed. His message is freedom and release for those held in all kinds of bondage, and all this will be accomplished through the Spirit’s anointing. When He said, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing,” Jesus claimed that He is the answer to God’s ancient promise. At first, the crowd seems accepting and astonished by their hometown boy (v. 22). Jesus, however, challenged their approval (v. 23).

Jesus recounted two incriminating stories from the time of the prophets Elijah and Elisha (vv. 24-27; cf. 1 Kings 17; 2 Kings 5:1-19). He cautioned their American Idol-like enthusiasm, suggesting that when they understood His deeper message and mission He might lose their votes. Will they be implicated when Jesus sets the captives free? Their praise and amazement quickly turned to fury (v. 28). The townspeople drove Jesus to the edge of town ready to kill Him, but Jesus escaped unhindered (vv. 29-30).

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Jesus announces freedom from all things that hold us captive: sin, disease, loneliness, mental illness, injustice, death. The Spirit of the Lord upon Jesus seals the liberation with power and authority, and this same Spirit who raised Christ from the dead lives in us (Rom. 8:11). You or someone you love may be imprisoned right now—physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually. Today, hear the great news of total emancipation in Jesus Christ. Cry out to Him for healing and restoration and trust His Spirit in you for complete redemption.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 5:12-14
He has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. - Luke 4:18
TODAY IN THE WORD
The Home for Joy, a Christian ministry in Bangladesh, provides food, shelter, and job training for women who have been socially and economically ostracized either because of severe scarring from acid attacks or rape. Rejected for marriage, these women are vulnerable and impoverished in a cultural context where social and economic protection from men is required. Resources and support from The Home for Joy has provided healing and restoration to 28 women over the past ten years.

Jesus encountered a man covered with leprosy, a term that refers to various skin diseases considered highly infectious in the ancient world. According to Leviticus 13, if the priest identified something as a skin disease, the person was thereafter unclean. “He must live alone; he must live outside the camp” (Lev. 13:46). Thus, the leprous man of Luke 5 was completely isolated spiritually from his community. Prohibited from all interaction with others, the man was socially and economically secluded as well. He was most likely poverty-stricken.

The leprous man demonstrated humility, dependence, reverence, and belief in Jesus’ healing power. He called out, “Lord,” affirming even more than he actually knew about Jesus (vv. 12, 17). Jesus responded remarkably by touching the “unclean” man. Without reservation or fear of contamination, Jesus crossed traditional boundaries to heal this man.

Yet today’s text is more than a story of Jesus’ physical healing. It is a story of justice. Jesus pronounced the man “clean” and thus restored him spiritually, socially, and economically. This is indeed “good news to the poor” (4:18).

Jesus commanded the man to accord with the Levitical laws for cleansing and reentry into community life (Lev. 14:1-32), “as a testimony” to the priest (v. 14). First, a visit to the priest would confirm the healing and allow reintegration into spiritual, social, and economic life, much of which revolved around the temple. Second, the visit would testify to the power of the Lord at work.

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Following the healing of the leprous man, Jesus steals away for private prayer (5:16). Jesus often set aside time for prayer and communion with the Father. The fruit of this time is intimacy with His Father, alignment with God’s mission, and strength for demanding ministry. One way we cultivate our relationship with our heavenly Father and have our strength renewed is through Bible study and prayer. In addition to your time with Today in the Word, pursue private time in prayer to the Lord.