Today's Reading
Jeremiah: the prophet foretold God's judgment upon Israel. He decried the false prophecies of those around him. But the promise of God's wrath included this: "11 This entire land will become a desolate wasteland. Israel and her neighboring lands will serve the king of Babylon for seventy years.
12 'Then, after the seventy years of captivity are over, I will punish the king of Babylon and his people for their sins,' says the Lord. 'I will make the country of the Babylonians a wasteland forever.'" We have heard much from returning U.S. personnel about the desolate nature of ancient Babylon (modern-day Iraq). On the other hand, a friend told me of crossing the border into Israel from the south. He said it was like going from the stark desert to a lush garden.
2 Thessalonians: many Christians believe that these verses speak of the coming of the one called, in Revelation, "The Beast". What do you think they mean?
Psalms: we sing a song -- "Better is one day in Your courts; better is one day in Your house; better is one day in Your courts than thousands elsewhere" -- based on this chapter. The verse that speaks to me today is, "6 When they walk through the Valley of Weeping,
it will become a place of refreshing springs."
Proverbs today makes me think of Jesus before Pilate.
What captures your attention?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I agree with you. I think Paul is referring to "The Beast." What does verse 7 mean, though? "...but the one who now holds it back (I think he's referring to the secret power of lawlessness) will continue to do so till he is taken out of the way."
ReplyDeleteOne thought, Ranelle, is that "the one who holds it back" is actually the power of the Holy Spirit working in and through the followers of Christ. When Christians are taken (the rapture of the church), the last hindrance will be removed for Satan to attempt his grand scheme of complete domination.
ReplyDeleteOhhhh. Now that makes sense - thank you.
ReplyDelete