During this time of Lent, we reflect on the cross, the object of our faith and the reason that we live! Today’s Scripture reading can remind us that all that we have is undeserved and unearned. When I look at Israel’s experience in the wilderness it’s so hard to imagine how they could be so wayward and so stubborn. Over and over again they sin and complain and God always forgives and provides. Although this blows my mind, it is also so very humbling at the same time! When we ask for forgiveness, God forgives us over and over again when we mess up even though we often turn our backs on Him and His commands!
It may seem that Israel should know better and should not continue in sin because they had the Presence of God with them and they saw Him perform miracle after miracle right in front of their eyes… and yet… we have God’s Word filled with His words spoken to us and story after story of God’s miracles and provision, so what is our excuse!?! We also have the Holy Spirit living in us and working through us, something that Israel did not have!
These Scriptures are a reminder of how often I forget about God in my daily life and how undeserved I am of His blessings and His forgiveness. I get caught up in the lies of the world, in the shuffle of day-to-day activities, in the chaos of my life, and I often leave God out of the very moments where I need Him the most. During this time of Lent, we are reminded to take our focus off the world and to turn our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. Through searching God’s heart, in prayer and devotions, we can see the areas of our lives that we need to change and draw closer to Him.
As you read today’s Scripture, ask God to reveal to you these areas where change is needed so that you can grow closer to Him. Below is a prayer that you can recite as you sit quietly and reflect. May God bless your day and speak to you through His Word and in your prayer time.
O God of such truth as sweeps away all lies,
of such grace as shrivels all excuses,
come now to find us
for we have lost our selves
in a shuffle of disguises
and the rattle of empty words.
Let your Spirit move mercifully
to recreate us from
the chaos of our lives.
We have been careless
of our days,
our loves,
our gifts,
our chances…
Our prayer is to change, O God,
not out of despair of self
but for love of you,
and for the selves we long to become
before we simply waste away.
Let your mercy move in and through us now… Amen.
Ted Loder, My Heart in My Mouth