January 30

Today's Reading

Exodus. As I read today's passage, I noticed the words: Pharaoh’s officials now came to Pharaoh and appealed to him. “How long will you let this man hold us hostage?" Isn't it amazing how God turned the tables on the situation? At the beginning, it was Israel who was hostage. We shouldn't be surprised because of the way God changed the people's attitude toward Moses. (Now the Lord had caused the Egyptians to look favorably on the people of Israel. And Moses was considered a very great man in the land of Egypt, respected by Pharaoh's officials and the Egyptian people alike.) (Exodus 11:3 NLT) Systematically, God tore down the power structure of the enemy. I think He does the same with us when we sincerely cry out to Him.

The passage ends with the preparation for the first Passover. Hundreds of years later, Jesus instituted the first "Lord's Supper" in a Passover meal with his followers. It is full of significance.

Matthew opens today with a story about work and wages. What do you think it means? If our labor is only for a paycheck, then it seems unfair that the last workers get paid the same as the first. But, turn it around. The Master was a kind, generous man. The early workers got to spend a whole day in his presence. A single day in your courts
is better than a thousand anywhere else!
I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God
than live the good life in the homes of the wicked. (Psalm 84:10 NLT) Now, what do you think?

Psalms. 11 For the honor of your name, O Lord,
forgive my many, many sins. This is often the cry of my heart.

Ants can be pesky little creatures, but they sure are diligent. Proverbs tells us to notice and learn from them. After that, at least at my house, I put out bait to get rid of them.

I found this reading very rich Hope to read your comments!