The Daily Lectionary with Commentary for Thursday, November 2, 2023

 

The Daily Lectionary with Commentary
Thursday, November 2, 2023

Guidance, Faithfulness, and Genuine Commitment

Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37; Joshua 1:1-11; Romans 2:17-29
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)

Introduction

In the vast tapestry of biblical text, there is a recurring motif of God's unwavering guidance, His unending faithfulness to those who seek Him, and the profound call for genuine commitment to His word and ways. Psalm 107 paints a vivid image of God's redeeming love for those who are lost, rescuing them from their distress and leading them along the right paths. This notion of guidance is echoed in Joshua 1, where God reassures Joshua of His enduring presence and exhorts him to be strong and courageous as he leads the Israelites to the Promised Land. However, while divine guidance and faithfulness are foundational, Romans 2 reminds us that it's not just about external observance but a genuine, heart-led commitment to God's laws. Together, these passages beckon us to reflect upon God's faithful guidance in our own lives, while challenging us to ensure that our commitment to Him is sincere and profound, not just an outward show. As we delve into these scriptures, let's be reminded of the beauty of God's faithfulness, the importance of His guidance, and the transformative power of genuine commitment.

A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37
Thanks for a beautiful land

Psalm 107 is a heartfelt song of thanksgiving and praise, a reminder of the endless mercies and steadfast love of the Lord. It recounts the tales of those who have found themselves lost, in distress, or facing challenges, yet witnessed the unwavering grace and deliverance of God. As we delve into these verses today, may we be reminded of the countless times God has come to our aid, leading us from desolation to places of abundance. Let these verses stir gratitude in our hearts and encourage us to always give thanks to Him, for He is good.

1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; *
        his love endures forever.

2 Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story— *
        those he redeemed from the hand of the foe,

3 those he gathered from the lands, *
        from east and west, from north and south.

4 Some wandered in desert wastelands, *
        finding no way to a city where they could settle.

5 They were hungry and thirsty, *
        and their lives ebbed away.

6 Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, *
        and he delivered them from their distress.

7 He led them by a straight way *
        to a city where they could settle.

33 He turned rivers into a desert, *
        flowing springs into thirsty ground,

34 and fruitful land into a salt waste, *
        because of the wickedness of those  who lived there.

35 He turned the desert into pools of water *
        and the parched ground into flowing springs;

36 there he brought the hungry to live, *
        and they founded a city where they could settle.

37 They sowed fields and planted vineyards *
        that yielded a fruitful harvest;

Gracious and Everlasting Father, we come before You with hearts filled with gratitude and awe for Your endless mercies and boundless love. As we read and reflect on the words of Psalm 107, remind us, O Lord, of the times You have reached down to lift us from our despair, guiding us out of the wilderness and into the light of Your presence.

We thank You for the reminder that Your love endures forever, a steadfast beacon in the midst of life's tempests. May we never take for granted the blessings You bestow upon us, the transformations You enact in our lives, turning barren deserts into flowing streams and parched lands into abundant fields.

Help us, O Lord, to always give thanks to You, for Your love never falters and Your goodness knows no bounds. As we journey through life, may we continually find our hope and strength in You, knowing that You are ever present, ever guiding, and ever loving.

Be with us today and every day in Jesus Christ, Who taught us to pray:

“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.”

Joshua 1:1-11
God commissions Joshua

The Book of Joshua narrates the account of the Israelites’ entry into the Promised Land after their 40-year wilderness journey following the exodus from Egypt. The narrative begins with the leadership transition from Moses, the iconic prophet, lawgiver, and leader, to Joshua, his successor and once trusted spy, who is now tasked with leading the Israelites into the land promised to their ancestors.

Joshua 1:1-11 sets the stage for the rest of the book. It presents the divine commissioning of Joshua, provides him with promises and imperatives, and details his subsequent commands to the people in preparation for their imminent crossing of the Jordan River into Canaan. This passage is crucial not just for its historical significance, but also for its thematic elements of leadership, obedience, and God's faithfulness.

1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. 3 I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west. 5 No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.

7 “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 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. 9 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.”

10 So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: 11 “Go through the camp and tell the people, ‘Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.’”

Commentary

Verses 1-2: "After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: 'Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites.'"

Here, there is an immediate juxtaposition between the death of Moses and the Lord's address to Joshua. The words serve as both a reminder of the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. The transition of leadership is divinely ordained, and Joshua's new role is not just as a military or administrative leader but as God's chosen instrument for this phase of Israel’s history.

Verses 3-5: The Lord reaffirms His promise to give the Israelites every place they set their foot on, mirroring the covenant He made with their forefathers. God’s commitment to His people is unwavering, regardless of the changes in human leadership. The mention of no one being able to stand against Joshua all the days of his life is a powerful assurance, linking Joshua's leadership to the legacy of Moses.

Verses 6-9: Three times, Joshua is commanded to be "strong and courageous," emphasizing the significance and challenges of the task ahead. The task isn’t just a physical conquest; it's also a spiritual journey. Joshua is not only urged to be fearless in battle but to also diligently adhere to the Law given to Moses, a reminder that success in the Promised Land is contingent upon obedience to God's commands.

Verses 10-11: Having received his commission from the Lord, Joshua then commands the officers of the people to prepare provisions and to ready the people for the journey across the Jordan in three days. This reflects Joshua’s immediate obedience to God's call and his role as a decisive leader, setting the stage for the events that follow.

In summary, Joshua 1:1-11 serves as an opening testament to God's unwavering promises, the crucial role of faithful leadership, and the intertwined nature of obedience, faith, and divine blessing. It sets the tone for the rest of the book, which charts the challenges and victories of the Israelites as they take possession of the Promised Land.

Romans 2:17-29
Real circumcision a matter of the heart

In the New Testament, the letter to the Romans stands as one of the most systematic and detailed presentations of Christian theology. Written by the Apostle Paul, this epistle addresses both Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome, emphasizing the universality of the Gospel and the grace of God available to all. One of the major themes in Romans is the true nature of righteousness—how it is obtained and who can truly claim it.

Romans 2:17-29 is a passage that zeroes in on the Jewish audience, tackling issues of religious identity, legalistic pride, and the real essence of the covenant between God and His people. Paul endeavors to challenge their confidence in mere external observance of the Law and the physical sign of circumcision. Instead, he points them towards a deeper, inward transformation—a circumcision of the heart.

17 Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and boast in God; 18 if you know his will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law; 19 if you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, 20 an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of little children, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth— 21 you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal? 22 You who say that people should not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 23 You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law? 24 As it is written: “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.”

25 Circumcision has value if you observe the law, but if you break the law, you have become as though you had not been circumcised. 26 So then, if those who are not circumcised keep the law’s requirements, will they not be regarded as though they were circumcised? 27 The one who is not circumcised physically and yet obeys the law will condemn you who, even though you have the written code and circumcision, are a lawbreaker.

28 A person is not a Jew who is one only outwardly, nor is circumcision merely outward and physical. 29 No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person’s praise is not from other people, but from God.

Commentary

Verses 17-20: Paul starts by addressing the Jewish reader directly, outlining their privileges and self-perception. Jews were entrusted with God’s Law, saw themselves as guides to the blind, and instructors of the foolish. In essence, they held a position of moral and spiritual authority in society because of the Mosaic Law.

Verses 21-24: Yet, Paul swiftly confronts them with a challenging question: while they teach others, do they not teach themselves? Paul highlights the hypocrisy that can arise when one emphasizes external adherence to the Law but fails in personal moral conduct. The stern warning is clear: knowledge of the Law is meaningless without its personal application. God's name, he argues, is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of such hypocrisy.

Verses 25-27: Here, Paul tackles the sensitive topic of circumcision, a physical sign of the covenant between God and Israel. He states that while circumcision has value if one observes the Law, breaking the Law nullifies its significance. Interestingly, Paul argues that an uncircumcised Gentile who keeps the Law's righteous requirements would be viewed as circumcised, putting him in a position to judge the circumcised Jew who breaks the Law.

Verses 28-29: These verses serve as the crux of Paul’s argument. He redefines what it truly means to be a Jew and what genuine circumcision is. Being a Jew, in the spiritual sense, is not about external markers but about inward transformation. True circumcision is that of the heart, accomplished by the Spirit, not by the written code. This implies a relationship with God that goes beyond externalities and is rooted in genuine faith and transformation.

In summary, Paul calls his readers to look beyond mere external observance and to seek a genuine, inward relationship with God. He challenges the notion of religious entitlement based on birthright or ritual and urges a life aligned with the essence of God's law, emphasizing the heart's transformation over mere outward signs.

Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets.]

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Commentaries are by Rev. Kenny Sallee, ThM.

The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year A. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2023, we will be in Year B. The year which ended at Advent 2022 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Daily Lectionary with Commentary for Thursday, November 2, 2023
Guidance, Faithfulness, and Genuine Commitment
Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37; Joshua 1:1-11; Romans 2:17-29
In the vast tapestry of biblical text, there is a recurring motif of God's unwavering guidance, His unending faithfulness to those who seek Him, and the profound call for genuine commitment to His word and ways. Psalm 107 paints a vivid image of God's redeeming love for those who are lost, rescuing them from their distress and leading them along the right paths. This notion of guidance is echoed in Joshua 1, where God reassures Joshua of His enduring presence and exhorts him to be strong and courageous as he leads the Israelites to the Promised Land. However, while divine guidance and faithfulness are foundational, Romans 2 reminds us that it's not just about external observance but a genuine, heart-led commitment to God's laws. Together, these passages beckon us to reflect upon God's faithful guidance in our own lives, while challenging us to ensure that our commitment to Him is sincere and profound, not just an outward show. As we delve into these scriptures, let's be reminded of the beauty of God's faithfulness, the importance of His guidance, and the transformative power of genuine commitment.

The Morning Prayer for Thursday, November 2, 2023

 

The Morning Prayer
Thursday, November 2, 2023

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Colossians 3:1–2 (NIV)

Heavenly Father, in the freshness of this new morning, I lift my heart and mind to You, as the sun rises and the world awakens. Reminded by the words of Paul in Colossians, I seek to set my heart on things above, where Christ is seated at Your right hand.

Grant me, O Lord, a heavenly perspective today, to see beyond the fleeting and temporary concerns of this world. Let my thoughts not be consumed by earthly desires, but be captivated by Your eternal promises and divine purpose.

May I remember that I have been raised with Christ and that my true life is hidden with Him in You. Help me to prioritize Your kingdom values and to lay aside anything that would hinder my spiritual growth.

In every decision I face, in every interaction I have, and in every challenge that comes my way, let my mind be fixed on things above and not on earthly things.

Thank you for the promise of eternity with You, and for the hope that is in Christ Jesus. I commit this day to You, asking for Your guidance, wisdom, and strength to live in a manner worthy of Your calling.

In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.

May this prayer provide you with peace, encouragement, and focus as you start your day.

Verse of the Day for Thursday, November 2, 2023

 

Verse of the Day
Thursday, November 2, 2023

1 Peter 2:9

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

1. "But you are a chosen people": Peter begins this verse by highlighting the unique status of believers in Christ. The notion of being "chosen" is reminiscent of the Old Testament where the Israelites were considered God’s chosen people (Deuteronomy 7:6). In the new covenant through Jesus Christ, this concept of being chosen extends to all believers, regardless of their ethnic or cultural backgrounds.

2. "a royal priesthood": The concept of "priesthood" in the Old Testament was designated to specific tribes (namely the Levites) who were responsible for mediating between God and the people, offering sacrifices and maintaining the temple rituals. By referring to all believers as a "royal priesthood," Peter is emphasizing the privilege and responsibility that believers now have to approach God directly (thanks to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus) and to serve others in His name. The term "royal" also emphasizes the dignity and authority with which believers are endowed as children of the King of Kings.

3. "a holy nation": Again drawing from Old Testament imagery, where Israel was set apart as a holy nation unto God (Exodus 19:6), Peter uses this term to remind believers of their sanctified (set apart) status. In Christ, they are called to live lives that are distinct and different, reflecting God’s character in a world that does not know Him.

4. "God’s special possession": This phrase reinforces the idea of belonging and value. Just as someone treasures a special possession, God treasures His people. It's a reminder of the deep love and care that God has for each individual believer.

5. "that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light": The purpose of this unique identity is not just for the sake of privilege but also for a mission. Believers are called to declare and proclaim the goodness of God. The imagery of "darkness" and "light" is a common biblical theme, symbolizing the contrast between a life without knowledge of God and a life illuminated by His presence. Peter underscores the transformative power of the Gospel: moving from spiritual ignorance and bondage ("darkness") to enlightenment, freedom, and hope ("his wonderful light").

In this single verse, Peter encapsulates a profound understanding of the believer's identity and purpose in Christ. It serves as an encouragement for Christians to embrace their God-given roles and to live out their faith boldly, always pointing others to the grace and glory of God.

Scripture from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.

The verse 1 Peter 2:9 is a powerful reminder of the identity and purpose of believers in Christ. In this verse, the apostle Peter addresses the recipients of his letter, referring to them as a "chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession." This language echoes the Old Testament, where similar descriptions were used for the nation of Israel. However, Peter applies these terms to the New Testament church, made up of both Jewish and Gentile believers, to highlight the continuity between the Old and New Testaments and to emphasize the privileged status and responsibilities of believers in Christ. By doing so, Peter encourages his readers to live lives that are worthy of their calling and to proclaim the praises of God who has called them out of darkness into his marvelous light.

The Daily Devotional for Thursday, November 2, 2023: God’s Altar Everywhere

 

The Daily Devotional
Thursday, November 2, 2023

God’s Altar Everywhere

Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious.”
Acts 17:22 (NIV)

The lively metropolis of Athens was a thriving center of culture, philosophy, and religious ideas. In the midst of this rich environment, Paul observed the spiritual longing of the Athenians, evidenced by their numerous altars dedicated to various gods, including one to an "unknown god." This was not a critique, but rather a keen insight into their quest to forge a connection with the Divine.

This historical episode in Athens serves as a reminder that the inherent yearning to connect with something greater than ourselves is a universal phenomenon. Our personal altars may not necessarily be tangible or explicitly religious, yet they manifest in our ambitions, hopes, dreams, and even our fears. Much like the Athenians, many of us have 'unknown god' spaces within our hearts, symbolizing our doubts and queries regarding the Divine.

In contemporary society, we may not worship Apollo or Zeus, yet our world is no less spiritual. As the novelist David Foster Wallace pointed out, "Everybody worships," but he also issued a cautionary note: "If you worship money and things… then you will never have enough.… Worship your body and beauty… and you will always feel ugly.… Worship your intellect… [and] you will end up feeling stupid." Our modern, secular era has its own deities, and they are far from harmless.

During his visit to the Agora, Paul addressed the Athenians, saying, “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious” (Acts 17:22). He went on to introduce them to the one true God, portraying Him as the Creator of everything (vv. 24–26), who desires to be known by humanity (v. 27), and has revealed Himself through the resurrection of Jesus (v. 31). This God is not a product of human craftsmanship, and unlike Apollo or Zeus, He is not a figment of human imagination. Moreover, unlike money, beauty, or intelligence, worshiping this God will not lead to our detriment.

Ultimately, our god is whatever we depend on to provide us with a sense of purpose and security. The comforting truth is that when all earthly gods fall short, the one true God is ready and waiting to be discovered (v. 27).

Reflection:

As we reflect on this verse, let us ask ourselves whether our faith is based on a genuine relationship with God or on mere religious observance. Do we seek to know God personally, or are we content with going through the motions? Let us strive to deepen our understanding of God and His Word, seeking to know Him more intimately and to live out our faith in a way that truly honors Him. In doing so, we will find true fulfillment and purpose in our spiritual lives, and we will be better equipped to share the love and truth of Christ with others.

Application:

1. Recognize the Altars: Today, look around and identify the 'altars' in your life. What do you prioritize? What are the things, ideas, or people you value most? Understanding these can give insight into where you might be seeking fulfillment or meaning.

2. Acknowledge the Unknown: It's okay not to have all the answers. The very fact that the Athenians had an altar to an unknown god showed their humility and openness. Embrace the mystery of life and faith, knowing that it's okay to have questions and uncertainties.

3. Connect with the Known God: Paul used the altar to the unknown god as a starting point to introduce the Athenians to the one true God. We too can turn our uncertainties into opportunities. Dive deeper into Scripture, prayer, and fellowship to grow in understanding and connection with God.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,  we recognize that in our hearts, we have many altars, some known and some unknown. Help us to discern what drives our pursuits and to align our hearts with Your will. Guide us in our journey of faith, turning our uncertainties into deeper connections with You. May we always seek You in all things and find fulfillment in Your eternal love. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Thought for the Day:

In the vastness of our universe and the complexities of our lives, the omnipotent God seeks a personal relationship with each of us. Will we recognize Him amidst our altars?