Ordinary Time: Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Old Testament Lesson

Nehemiah 9:26-38

This passage recounts the goodness of God. Time after time the people turned away. Time after time they turned from their God. Time after time they fell into sin. Time after time they chose the wrong, the improper, the the sinful. Time after time they were punished.

And time after time God forgave. Time after time God restored. Time after time God forgave His people and gave mercy, hope, and love. We don't deserve the goodness and mercy of God. That's not what we deserve or have earned. But He gives it anyway. God is a God of mercy, time after time. Let us be thankful for that.

New Testament Lesson

Revelation 18:9-20

If Revelation teaches us anything, it's this. God will intercede on behalf of His people. In Revelation, the people of God are oppressed. They suffer. They are beaten down. They face persecution on every side. And, in the end, God defeats those that have harmed His people. God stands by His people and in the end, goodness will win. God will win over evil. The meek shall inherit the earth. God will reign and His people will live forever. God wins in the end. Thanks be to God.

Gospel Lesson

Matthew 15:21-28

Jesus brought healing to those in need. They cried out and He brought healing. They hurt and He restored them. They were weak, and He brought strength. They were weak and wounded, sick and soar. And He gave them life.

The same Jesus that brought life to so many is the same Jesus that longs to bring us life today. Today, and each day, life is found in Jesus. In love, His mercy, His peace, His life. He is love and life. Today.