March 13

Today's Reading

Numbers. Today's reading includes several different events, all of them important in the history of God's people. The purification involving the red heifer seems to be more about health and sanitary conditions than spiritual ones. Then you will notice the incident which brought Moses and Aaron under God's judgment and kept them from entering the Promised Land. In his frustration, Moses violated God's holiness. In doing so, he violated a critical illustration God was giving about things to come. Earlier, God commanded Moses to strike the rock and water came forth. We learn later that Jesus is THE Rock of our salvation and He had to be struck for us to receive the water of life. Now that Christ has been struck for our salvation, we need but ask and receive to get the living water He offers. Moses didn't just ask; he struck. This time twice!
After reading the Gospel accounts of Matthew and Mark, we turn to Luke. Luke was a consummate historian who drew his primary source material from Mary, Jesus' mother. Thus he gives the greatest detail surrounding Jesus' birth. I noticed a very small thing today that may be significant. But now, since you didn't believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time." (Luke 1:20 NLT) Could it be that Zechariah might have lost his focus on the angel's words if had been able speak? Sort of like I do when I focus so much on what I'm about to say that I don't really pay attention to what is being said? (I'm sure you don't have the same problem!)
Psalms. We are reminded today that, when we are afraid, we can trust in God. I have known fear and keep learning trust.
What a great promise in Proverbs!
Please take a moment and fill us in with your thoughts and questions.