January 23: Slithering Down to the River

Affirmation: Find balance between giving and receiving.

This is part of self-compassion.The way you interact with yourself has a greater impact on you than any interactions you have with others. Allow others to help you, too.

~~~~~~~
Ponder and Personalize: The book of Joshua was written after Moses died and Joshua is left to lead the Israelites into the promised land. God has freed them from slavery in Egypt. “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night,…” what significance does the Book of Law have? Why was it important to meditate on it day and night? Talk to God about this directive and how it might impact you.

Joshua 1:8-9


“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”


~~~~~~~
Praying the Message of Jesus: A Year of Thoughts and Prayers
by Eugene Peterson

                     Jan 23


Slithering Down to the River 

When John realized that a lot of Pharisees and Sadducees were showing up for a baptismal experience because it was becoming the popular thing to do, he exploded: "Brood of snakes! What do you think you're doing slithering down here to the river? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to make any differ­ence? It's your life that must change, not your skin! And don't think you can pull rank by claiming Abraham as father. Being a descendant of Abraham is neither here nor there. Descendants of Abraham are a dime a dozen. What counts is your life. Is it green and blossoming? Because if it's deadwood, it goes on the fire." 

MATTHEW 3:7-10 

Fleeing from wrath is not a gospel. The base lives and cowardly souls of the "brood of snakes" rushed to the Jordan for rescue. But John did not indulge their escapism; he called them to responsible action: "It's your life that must change, not your skin!" 


What does repentance mean? 

 

I am more comfortable, Father, with an image of you as a gentleman farmer, pruning an occasional branch and raking up a few leaves. But you go to the root. I submit myself to your surgery and hope in your salvation. Amen. 

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