The Wednesday Word 3.15.2023

 

Exodus 19:3-8. New Living Translation

 

“3 Then Moses climbed the mountain to appear before God. The LORD called to him from the mountain and said, “Give these instructions to the family of Jacob; announce it to the descendants of Israel: 4 ‘You have seen what I did to the Egyptians. You know how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. 5 Now if you will obey me and keep my covenant, you will be my own special treasure from among all the peoples on earth; for all the earth belongs to me. 6 And you will be my kingdom of priests, my holy nation.’ This is the message you must give to the people of Israel.” 7 So Moses returned from the mountain and called together the elders of the people and told them everything the LORD had commanded him. 8 And all the people responded together, “We will do everything the LORD has commanded.” So Moses brought the people’s answer back to the LORD.”

 

I have spent a lot of time thinking about obedience. The last year I worked, there was a little strip of paper on my bulletin board hidden amidst the maps and frequently called phone numbers bearing that word. It was there to remind me what my real job was:  to serve my Lord and Savior. That word reminds me when I feel tired or find myself filled with meanness.  It jabs me in the ribs when I simply don’t want to do it. Obedience. I am the only one who knows what it means to me. Jesus knows all about obedience and we can read about what it meant to him. You have to decide what it means to you.

 

If I am obedient and maintain that covenant relationship with the God who created me, he says I will be a part of his special treasure. I want desperately to be so. Yet, at the same time I know that despite my best intentions, I am going to mess up. I will miss opportunities and make bad choices. I know I desperately need help to try to obey in ways that will be pleasing to Our Heavenly Father.  We must choose to obey every day in every choice we make. We must be open to the help the Holy Spirit can bring. That is how much he wants us…something to pray about.

 

Don’t forget to look for the Lord today. Vicki H. 


                                                                                                    photo by Nima Mot

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