Read Deuteronomy 5
Read Luke 3
Both of our readings today help us to walk in the right "way." In Deuteronomy 5 we hear the 10 commandments repeated. Then at the end of the chapter, Moses encourages Israel (and therefore also us, the New Israel), not to depart from living the right way, straying or veering right or left.
John the Baptist also preaches that we should repent. He gives some practical instructions to the people that come to be baptized - tax collectors, soldiers, and others. And, Luke tells us that John the Baptist is the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy that a voice would call out from the wilderness, calling the way to be made smooth, level, and straight.
We do this when we heed the commandments of the Lord and living according to them. We constantly should turn from sin and live a God-pleasing life. Yes, turn from sin! Some people like to point out that Jesus "accepted" sinners and ate with prostitutes, tax collectors, and sinners. Yet they forget that Jesus loved and befriended these sinners, but did not leave them in their sad state. No! He would tell them like, "Your sins have been forgiven," "Salvation has come to this house," and "Go and sin no more."
Yes, Jesus forgives and Jesus calls his followers to leave a life of sin behind and walk in the straight and narrow way. This applies to the 1st century Jews. And 20 centuries later it also applies to us.
Repent. Turn from sin. Cling to the forgiveness and life Jesus won for us on the cross. That's the way to live.
Ask Yourself:
Which of the 10 commandments is proving the most difficult for you to keep?
Do doubt, worry, fear, or desire leading you to the left or right? How so?
What can I do to better guard myself against sin?
Pray:
Today pray Luther's morning prayer and evening prayer at the appropriate times. (Found in your catechism or LSB hymnal). Realize that in the morning prayer you ask God to help defend you from sin. In the evening, knowing we have fallen short, notice that we ask God to forgive all our sins where we have done wrong. Luther sure knew what he was doing!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
No comments:
Post a Comment