March 17

Today's Reading

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was used of God to shake up that nation as well as the traditional Catholic church. He did so by going into communities and building compounds within them. In those compounds they practiced their faith as it had been taught by Jesus. Living there was a commitment to love and serve your neighbors, speak truthfully, and share with each other. A person could stay as long as they lived by the covenant. Many moved in who didn't believe in Christ and became Christians because of the way the Christians treated each other. Once a group was established, a few young families would move to a neighboring community and start the process over. Over time they evangelized much of that region.

Numbers. This book began with a tabulation of the forces of Israel. Another is recorded here. Remember, these were just the men who were prepared for war. The actual number of people was much larger.

Luke. People like Anna don't make sense in human economy. She stayed in the Temple, worshiping God with fasting a prayer day and night -- for years! She didn't teach, minister to the sick, or do other acts of ministry service we might expect. She ministered to the Lord. I believe that God always has some people like Anna in the world and they are vital! Jesus amazed the religious leaders at 12 years old, but it wasn't because Jesus automatically had all the knowledge of God. Otherwise, today's passage wouldn't tell us that He continued to grow in wisdom.

Psalm 60 makes me think of times in my life when the battle is hard and seems never-ending. On the one hand, I experience God's provision and victory. On the other, I often feel alone and have to walk on by faith. I once read this the morning after spending much of the night in spiritual battle recently and it fed my soul.

Proverbs reminds us today not to co-sign for someone else -- unless we have the means to repay their debt (and the willingness).

Whether or not you're wearing green today, share you thoughts with us!