January 22

Today's Reading

Genesis. I always read today's passage with tears. The story of reconciliation is, I believe, the most powerful story of all. God sent His Son Jesus to reconcile us to Himself. Jesus' ancestor Judah took the front position so that Joseph could be reconciled to his family. I deeply hope to hear many of your responses to this today!

Matthew includes two familiar accounts today. What insights do you have as you read them?

Psalms today is the rousing crescendo at the end of David's prayer. Notice how he has moved from acknowledgment of God's strength to a commitment to destroy his (David's) enemies. In the New Testament (Ephesians), we are told that our enemies are not flesh and blood, but from hell itself.

Proverbs again reminds us to walk in wisdom. We are near the end of these foundation preparations and will see them built upon with the formidable material of wise principles.

If you find your initial enthusiasm for this task waning, you are normal. I encourage you to move through this stage. Someone explained it to me long ago that we move from Desire to Discipline to Delight. It will take another week or two for the daily discipline to be cemented in your life. Hang in there! You will have days of great inspiration and other days when you aren't sure exactly what you are reading. That's normal!

Feedback time!