Friday, December 11, 2020
Humility and mercy
An excerpt from Habakkuk 3:2-6 (from The Message)
God, I’ve heard who our ancestors say about you, and I’m stopped in my tracks, down on my knees. Do among us what you did among them. Work among us as you worked among them. And as you bring judgement, as you surely must, remember mercy.
Reflection from Sharon Gramer:
Battles can be so personal. I remember when my father battled his heavy drinking and smoking, and it finally took its toll during his late 60s. I prayed so hard for him to come back from his tremors and brain damage. The miracle happened and it stunned the doctors. I knew God was showing his mercy. It only lasted about a year, when the lifestyle change did not stick. He went back to first smoking, and, then, alcohol beginning with just a few beers. My prayers changed as I wanted God to take him peacefully. We are not to judge, but God will show his mercy. I pray for all who battle addictions.
For further study and prayer, the readings assigned for today are:
Psalm 126; Habakkuk 3:2-6; Philippians 3:12-16
Music
“The Battle of Jericho”
African American spiritual, arr. Moses Hogan
“Talk about your kings of Gideon,
Talk about your men of Saul
But none like good old Joshua
And the battle of Jericho!”