25 January 2016

Scriptures:

• Psalm 24
• Genesis 23
• 1 Chronicles 28
• Luke 16:1-17:10

Observations:

In the psalm today, we see three things. First, we have an acknowledgement of God's ownership of the earth by virtue of his being its creator. Second, we see man's interaction with God. Third, we have an urging to the gates [of Jerusalem?] to look and see God, the King of Glory, and let him in.

In Genesis, we see Abraham burying his wife, Sarah. In greater detail, we see the account of his discussion with the Hittites, whose land he was passing through, attempting to find a suitable tomb for his wife. I found the Hittites' response to be very curious: "You are a prince of God among us". It reminds me somewhat of Abimelech's words regarding Abraham. It seems that, as Abraham grew closer to God, the people around him began to see God reflected in him.

In 1 Chronicles, it appears as though we have David's passing of the baton to Solomon. First, we have his exhortation to all of his servants and staff, the officials, and the military to honour God and follow his commandments, that they may pass the land on to their children. Second, we have David speaking directly to Solomon. The first thing David tells his son is to seek God and the second is his plan and groundwork for the temple, detailed even to the weight of gold to be used in the temple affects.

In Luke, I am having a somewhat difficult time understanding this first parable, the one of the dishonest manager. I understand his firing for embezzlement. I understand his reasonings for cutting his master's debtor's dues. In some ways, I understand the master's commendation for his shrewd dealing. I even understand Christ's excerpt at the end of this passage. I just don't see how they all tie together, especially when you incorporate Jesus' response to the pharisees.

Following this, there is a short blurb on divorce and adultery before moving on to the next parable, the rich man and Lazarus. In this second parable, Jesus connects our conduct with our resultant eternities, showing the importance of loving our neighbours. He also speaks about the separation and finality of heaven and hell. What's interesting to me is the rich man's pleading to send a message to his brothers, which is refused on the grounds that if they would not repent because of Moses and the prophets, why would they repent because of someone rising from the dead.

Last, we have some of Jesus' comments on temptation, faith, and the role of a servant.

Applications: