Easter: Monday, April 28, 2008

Old Testament Lesson

Leviticus 25:35-55

One of the great truths we see in the Law is the concept of fairness.  You are supposed to treat each other as you would like to be treated. As my mama would say, you are supposed to "do right" by each other. We see in this passage if someone falls into such poverty they have to sell all they have and come work for family, they are not supposed to be treated like slaves. They are be treated as family, for that is what they are.  You are supposed to treat everyone with the grace and dignity they deserve as the children of God. 

Today, let us treat one another, even those that we struggle with, let us treat them with the grace that our Lord would have us to.  And in doing that, we show God's love and mercy to a hurting world. 

New Testament Lesson

James 1:12-18

This is one of the best verses in scripture that shows our weakness and need for God. When we are tempted, let us not say that we are tempted by God, but rather let us know that we are tempted by our own flesh, our own desires, our own wants. And, in that, we must be aware of what tempts us. We must be aware of things that trip us up. We must be aware of the things that can cause us trouble. And then, stay away from them!  Turn from them, and turn to God. For He will give us the strength.

Temptation is coming for us today.  Let's not go looking for it. And when it does come, let us turn to God.  

Gospel Lesson

Matthew 13:1-16

Lots of folks heard Jesus. They just didn't hear hear HIm. He spoke to them, they just didn't hear what He was saying.  He was speaking, but their hearts where not ready, their thoughts were other places, they just did not hear what He was trying to say. 

Today, our God will Speak.  May we have the grace to Hear what He has to say.