Ordinary Time: Monday, October 30, 2006

Old Testament Lesson

Esther 4:1-17

Sometimes this faith calls for great, great courage, more courage than we may think is possible. We see Esther have to summon that courage today. She knows that if she were to go to the king without being called, she could be put to death. But, Mordecai has one of the greatest statements in all the Word, perhaps you are queen for a time such as this.

God has a better notion of time than we do. We think we have it all figured out at times, be we can't see beyond our next footstep. God has a view of time that is far beyond ours. And, perhaps, He has you where He has you for a time such as this. Maybe you are at your job for a time such as this. Maybe your family is where it is for a time such as this. Maybe the changes in your life are for a time such as this.

Today, seize the day. Seize the moment. Whatever God has for you today, claim it, and do it! Maybe it for a time such as this.

New Testament Lesson

Revelation 11:1-14

One of the things we see repeatedly in the book of Revelation is that time after time, God gives people the chance to repent. After every great judgement, we see statements such as this, the people gloated over the deaths, for they were a torment to them. The Word says that God desires that all be saved, and He is patient and merciful, but there is a time of judgment.

Today, God may be giving you mercy. Today, God may be giving you a chance to repent, a chance to turn, a chance to come back to Him. Today, do not let this chance pass.

Gospel Lesson

Luke 11:14-26

When we empty ourselves, we must allow God to fill us. It does no good to strive against sin, if we are not allowing God to fill us. It does no good to desire to improve as a person, if we are not allowing God to do the work. This passages tells us that if evil is driven out from our lives, but the space remains empty, evil will come back, but only worse.

Today, I do not know what you desire to be, but if you not allowing God to shape that vision, you are setting yourself up for a fall. If the Lord fills you, you will be full. If you do not allow God to fill you, the devil and his forces will see that and you do not want him to fill you.

Today, are you allowing God to fill you?