Ordinary Time: Monday, Novemember 6, 2006

Old Testament Lesson

Ezekiel 20:27-44

We see some many times in the Old Testament God give grace to His undeserving people. We see it a lot in the New Testament, and in our own lives as well. But, in this passage, God says, go ahead, worship your idols. If you are going to do these things, do them. Judgement will come, punishment will come. And, I will raise up a people that will be faithful, but if you refused to go and indulge in your sin and receive your judgment, go for it.

There comes a time in our lives when sin and darkness become so great they can overcome us. That is why God despises sin so much, it destroys His children. Today, do not play with sin. Do not allow temptation to abide in your life. Do not allow darkness to make its home within you. Today, avoid evil. Because if you do not, there will come a time when your heart will harden, and you will not hear God's voice. God will still be speaking, but you will be unable to hear. Today, turn from your sin and turn to God.

New Testament Lesson

Revelation 14:1-13

We see here in the end of this passage that call for endurance. Revelation teaches us much, but one of the most abiding messages of this book is that of endurance, of perseverance. That we must hold fast and not let go. We must cling to God. No matter how dark the situation may look, hold onto Jesus. You cannot overcome on your own. You cannot slay the dragons that lay ahead on your own. But, through Jesus, all things are possible.

Today, do not let go of Him. Today, do not quit struggling. Today, do not give up hope. Our redeemer lives and will stand with us on the day of trouble. Rejoice, those of you in the Lord, for He is out help in the time of trouble.

Gospel Lesson

Luke 12:49-59

This is one of those passages that does not feed into the sweet little Jesus that is just about making folks feel better and raising their self esteem. Today, He says, I came bring a sword. I came to divide. I came and people have to make a choice. Are you with me, or against me. Are you standing with the kingdom of God, or are choosing your way. He came and He demands we make a choice.

Today, you can be for Him, or against Him, but you cannot have it both ways. If He is not Lord of your life, if He is not the one calling the shots, if He is not the one that makes the decisions, then friend, you need to reexamine your life. He came to bring a sword. He came, and He demands we choose. Today, what will you choose? Will you serve Him? Or will you serve yourself. Today, you must choose.