"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)
Sunday, February 4, 2024 - Day 35 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 34-36 Matthew 23:1-22)
NOT HUMBLE? WOE X 7
The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. (Matthew 23:11-12 ESV)
The picture depicts an event in our current readings from the book of Exodus. God’s people got so tired of waiting for Moses (and God), that they fashioned a golden calf, thereby exalting themselves. God responded, through Moses, by throwing “the book” at them. What he threw was actually the two tablets on which were written the Ten Commandments.
In today’s New Testament reading from the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus, in effect, throws the book of God’s Law at the Pharisees and all who act like they have the ability to make themselves holy. In verses 13-29, Jesus uses the word “woe” seven times. This is a declaration of deep distress and wretchedness. And it fit the Pharisees perfectly.
13 But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!
15 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!
16 Woe to you, blind guides.... 17 You blind fools!
23 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!
25 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!
27 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness.
29 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites!
Heavenly Father, please keep me humble so that I may never hear the word “woe” directed at me. Teach me the importance of humble service that is performed out great thankfulness for You unlimited mercy and grace revealed in Christ, my Savior and Lord. In His saving name. Amen.
“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!
Pastor David Paape
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year.
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