October 14

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?