Monday, March 18, 2024

The Daily Lectionary with Commentary for Monday, March 18, 2024

 

The Daily Lectionary
With Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Monday, March 18, 2024

Guided by the Divine

Psalm 119:9-16; Isaiah 43:8-13; 2 Corinthians 3:4-11
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Lent 5)

Introduction

In this thematic exploration, we delve into the profound and transformative messages of Psalm 119:9-16, Isaiah 43:8-13, and 2 Corinthians 3:4-11. Psalm 119:9-16 offers a meditation on the significance of God's word in guiding and purifying the lives of believers, emphasizing the joy and commitment in following God's commandments. Isaiah 43:8-13 shifts our focus to the powerful theme of redemption and God's unwavering promise to be the only savior for His people, underscoring His omnipotence and the unique relationship He has with humanity. Finally, 2 Corinthians 3:4-11 contrasts the glory of the new covenant in Christ with the old covenant, highlighting the transformative power of the Spirit and the surpassing glory of the ministry of righteousness. Together, these passages invite us to reflect on the nature of divine guidance, the process of spiritual transformation, and the enduring promise of redemption that flows through the tapestry of biblical revelation.

A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 119:9-16
I Treasure Your Promise in My Heart

Psalm 119:9-16 is a profound and reflective passage that delves into the theme of living a life in accordance with God's commandments. This segment of the longest psalm in the Bible emphasizes the importance of young people maintaining purity and righteousness through adherence to the Word of God. It underscores the significance of treasuring God's teachings in one's heart as a means to avoid sinning. The psalmist expresses a deep love and respect for God's statutes, vowing to meditate on His precepts and delight in His decrees. This passage is not only a personal commitment to follow God's laws but also an invitation for readers to reflect on the impact of divine guidance in their own lives, highlighting the transformative power of God's word in leading a faithful and righteous path.
9    How can young people keep their way pure?
        By guarding it according to your word.

10  With my whole heart I seek you;
        do not let me stray from your commandments.

11  I treasure your word in my heart,
        so that I may not sin against you.

12  Blessed are you, O LORD;
        teach me your statutes.

13  With my lips I declare
        all the ordinances of your mouth.

14  I delight in the way of your decrees
        as much as in all riches.

15  I will meditate on your precepts,
        and fix my eyes on your ways.

16  I will delight in your statutes;
        I will not forget your word.


Heavenly Father, in the spirit of Psalm 119:9-16, we come before You with hearts eager to embrace Your Word. Guide us, O Lord, in Your truth, and teach us, for You are the God of our salvation; on You we wait all day long.

Help us to understand the way of Your statutes, that we may meditate on Your wonderful works. May Your commandments be our delight and our counselors. Grant us the wisdom to hide Your word in our hearts, that we might not sin against You.

Blessed are You, O Lord; teach us Your statutes. With our lips, let us declare all the rules of Your mouth. In the way of Your testimonies, we delight as much as in all riches. Help us to meditate on Your precepts and fix our eyes on Your ways.

We desire to delight in Your statutes; we will not forget Your word. Strengthen us in our resolve to follow Your path, to seek You with all our hearts, and to live a life that honors You.

Be with us today and every day in Jesus Christ, Who taught us to pray:
“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.”
Isaiah 43:8-13
God is Our Savior

Isaiah 43:8-13 presents a powerful and evocative passage in which God speaks directly to His people, affirming His unique and unparalleled status as the only true God. In this segment, God calls upon the blind and deaf to be witnesses to His sovereignty, emphasizing that no other god can compare to Him. This declaration is not just a statement of power but also a profound assurance of God's unfailing commitment to His people. The passage underscores the central theme of God's unchanging nature and His role as the sole creator and redeemer. Isaiah, as a prophet, conveys this message with poetic intensity, inviting readers to reflect on the majesty and might of God, who declares, "Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me. I, I am the Lord, and besides me there is no savior." This text is a cornerstone in the tapestry of biblical theology, emphasizing God's enduring presence and irrefutable dominion over all creation.
43 8 Bring forth the people who are blind, yet have eyes,
        who are deaf, yet have ears!

9    Let all the nations gather together,
        and let the peoples assemble.
    Who among them declared this,
        and foretold to us the former things?
    Let them bring their witnesses to justify them,
        and let them hear and say, “It is true.”

10  You are my witnesses, says the LORD,
        and my servant whom I have chosen,
    o that you may know and believe me
        and understand that I am he.
    Before me no god was formed,
        nor shall there be any after me.

11  I, I am the LORD,
        and besides me there is no savior.

12  I declared and saved and proclaimed,
        when there was no strange god among you;
        and you are my witnesses, says the 
LORD.
13  I am God, and also henceforth I am He;
        there is no one who can deliver from my hand;
        I work and who can hinder it?

Expository Commentary

Verse 8: This verse speaks metaphorically of people who have the physical ability to see and hear but are spiritually blind and deaf to God's teachings and works. It's a call to those who have been ignorant of God’s power and grace to come forward and witness His greatness. This sets the stage for the divine revelation that follows.

Verse 9: Here, God challenges other nations and their gods to predict and declare events as He does. The rhetorical questions imply that no other gods have the power to prophesy or match the works of the true God. This verse emphasizes God’s uniqueness and His authority over all nations and their deities.

Verse 10: God declares the people of Israel as His witnesses, chosen to know, believe, and understand His uniqueness and supremacy. This verse is central to monotheistic belief — emphasizing that no other gods existed before Yahweh and none will be formed after. It underscores the concept of God's eternal existence and singularity.

Verse 11: This verse reinforces the message of the previous verse, asserting that God is not only the sole divine being but also the only source of salvation. It reflects the idea that deliverance, whether spiritual or physical, can only come from God.

Verse 12: God reminds the people of His past actions – declaring (prophesying), saving (delivering), and proclaiming (making known His will). This reference to past deeds serves to validate His claim as the only God. The mention of "no strange god among you" suggests a time of pure faith before the introduction of foreign gods.

Verse 13: This final verse in the passage asserts God’s timeless and unchallengeable power. The phrase "I am He" reiterates God’s eternal and unchanging nature. The rhetorical question at the end underscores the futility of opposing God’s will or actions, as no one can hinder what God intends to do.

In summary, Isaiah 43:8-13 is a powerful declaration of God's sovereignty, uniqueness, and role as the only savior. Through a series of rhetorical questions and affirmations, it invites the audience to recognize and affirm the unmatched power and authority of God.
2 Corinthians 3:4-11
God’s Glory in Christ

In this passage from 2 Corinthians 3:4-11, the Apostle Paul continues his heartfelt and instructive correspondence with the Christian community in Corinth. This section delves into the nature of the ministry of the new covenant, contrasting it with the old covenant represented by Moses. Paul emphasizes the greater glory of the new covenant, brought about through the Spirit, in comparison to the fading glory of the old covenant, which was based on the law. He speaks of the confidence that this new covenant instills in believers, highlighting the transformative power of the Spirit over the written code. This passage is a profound reflection on the transition from the old to the new, underlining the enduring and surpassing glory of the ministry founded in Christ, and its life-giving spirit that transcends the limitations of the former law.
3 4 Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God. 5 Not that we are competent of ourselves to claim anything as coming from us; our competence is from God, 6 who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of letter but of spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

7 Now if the ministry of death, chiseled in letters on stone tablets, came in glory so that the people of Israel could not gaze at Moses’ face because of the glory of his face, a glory now set aside, 8 how much more will the ministry of the Spirit come in glory? 9 For if there was glory in the ministry of condemnation, much more does the ministry of justification abound in glory! 10 Indeed, what once had glory has lost its glory because of the greater glory; 11 for if what was set aside came through glory, much more has the permanent come in glory!
Expository Commentary

Verses 4-5: Paul begins by acknowledging the source of his confidence and competence. Unlike the self-assuredness rooted in personal abilities or achievements, Paul credits his confidence and ability to minister to the work and grace of Christ. He emphasizes that it is God who equips and enables, thus deflecting glory away from himself and towards God.

Verse 6: Here, Paul introduces a key theme of the passage: the contrast between the "letter" (the law of Moses) and the "Spirit" (the new covenant through Jesus Christ). The "letter" refers to the Old Testament law, which, though holy and good, ultimately condemns as it exposes human sinfulness without offering redemption. In contrast, the "Spirit" represents the new covenant of grace and truth brought by Jesus, which brings life and transformation.

Verse 7: Paul references the account from Exodus where Moses' face shone after receiving the law from God. The glory of the law, despite being significant, was temporary and fading. Paul uses this imagery to set up a comparison with the surpassing glory of the new covenant.

Verse 8: This rhetorical question highlights the superiority of the new covenant. If the old covenant, which brought condemnation, had glory, how much more glorious is the new covenant that brings the Spirit and life?

Verse 9: Paul continues the contrast, now focusing on the outcomes: condemnation versus righteousness. The new covenant doesn’t just reveal sin (like the old covenant); it provides a solution through righteousness in Christ.

Verse 10: This verse further emphasizes the surpassing glory of the new covenant. The old covenant’s glory is eclipsed by the far greater glory of the new covenant, which is permanent and life-giving.

Verse 11: Paul concludes this section by contrasting the transient nature of the old covenant with the enduring nature of the new covenant. The eternal and unchanging nature of the new covenant in Christ far outshines the old, highlighting its superior and lasting glory.

In summary, 2 Corinthians 3:4-11 contrasts the old and new covenants, underscoring the superiority of the new covenant in Christ. Paul emphasizes the transition from the letter, which brings death and condemnation, to the Spirit, which gives life and righteousness. This passage reflects a deep theological understanding of the Christian faith and its foundational shift from the law to grace.
Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets.]

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Commentaries are by Kenny Sallee, ThM, aided by ChatGPT. The biblical commentaries provided here are intended for educational and spiritual enrichment purposes only. The interpretations and insights offered are based on the authors' understanding and perspective of the Bible, which may be influenced by their theological training, denominational background, and personal beliefs.

The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org

Monday Morning Prayer for Monday, March 18, 2024

 

Monday Morning Prayer
March 18, 2024
May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Colossians 1:11–14
Heavenly Father, as I awaken to the new light of this day, I humbly come before You, inspired by the words of Colossians. I pray for strength, not just any strength, but the glorious power You provide, so that I might have all endurance and patience, filled with joy and thanksgiving.

Lord, in Your generous love, You have qualified me to share in the inheritance of the saints. As I step forward into the duties and joys of this day, let me do so with a heart grateful for the deliverance from darkness and the transfer into the kingdom of Your beloved Son.

In Jesus, I have redemption and the forgiveness of sins. Let this truth guide my thoughts, words, and actions today. Help me to extend the same forgiveness to others, reflecting Your grace and love in all that I do.

May my life be a living testament to Your unfailing love and mercy. Keep me steadfast in faith and purpose, ever mindful of Your presence and the hope of glory You have promised.

In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

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May this prayer serve as a source of comfort and guidance for you, offering encouragement as you navigate through the events and challenges of your day.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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Verse of the Day for Monday, March 18, 2024

Romans 15:13
 

Verse of the Day
Monday, March 18, 2024

Romans 15:13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13 is part of the letter the Apostle Paul wrote to the Romans. This letter is often regarded as one of Paul's most important theological works, where he discusses various themes like salvation, the grace of God, and the life of faith. Romans 15:13 falls within a section where Paul shifts his focus towards hope and encouragement, aiming to unify Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome.


Romans 15:13 serves as a benediction and a prayer, encapsulating key themes of Christian faith—hope, joy, peace, and the role of the Holy Spirit. Paul refers to God as the "God of hope," emphasizing that hope is an essential characteristic of God's nature and a central element of the Christian experience.

1. Hope: The verse underlines the Christian belief that hope is a divine gift, not merely an optimistic outlook. This hope is rooted in faith and is seen as both a present reality and a future expectation.

2. Joy and Peace: Paul's prayer for the believers to be filled with "all joy and peace in believing" suggests that these qualities are a byproduct of faith. Joy and peace are understood not as transient emotions, but as deep-seated states of being that come from trusting in God's promises.

3. The Role of the Holy Spirit: The mention of the Holy Spirit is crucial. It indicates that the abounding hope believers are called to experience is not self-generated but is a result of the Holy Spirit's work within them. This points to the Christian belief in the Trinity and the Holy Spirit's active role in the life of believers.

4. Community Aspect: This verse is not just individualistic; it has a communal dimension. By encouraging a community bound by hope, joy, and peace, Paul is fostering unity among the diverse Roman Christians, bridging the gap between Jews and Gentiles.

In summary, Romans 15:13 is a profound expression of the Christian ethos, emphasizing hope, joy, and peace as fundamental aspects of faith, deeply intertwined with the believer's relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith and the unifying spirit that should characterize the Christian community.

The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
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Daily Devotions with Chaplain Kenny for Monday, March 18, 2024: Embracing the Eternal 'I Am'

 

The Daily Devotional
Monday, March 18, 2024

Embracing the Eternal 'I Am'

God said to Moses, “I am who I am.”
Exodus 3:14a


Introduction

In the spiritual journey of every individual, moments of doubt and questioning are common. C.S. Lewis, a renowned scholar and once a staunch atheist, experienced a transformative encounter through the words of Exodus 3:14. This devotional explores the profound impact of God's self-identification, "I am who I am," and its relevance to our faith and understanding.

Reflection

C.S. Lewis, a revered figure in philosophy and literature and known for his formidable intellect, grappled with the idea of God for much of his life. Initially an atheist, his perspective began to shift as he encountered the profound simplicity of God’s declaration in Exodus 3:14, "I am who I am." This phrase, resonating with the depth of divine consistency and unchangeability, starkly contrasted the evolving world around him. Despite feeling isolated in his skepticism and resistant to the beliefs of his Christian peers, Lewis found himself drawn to the distinct character of the Bible, especially the Gospels. His realization that these scriptures stood apart from mere myth or literature, remarking, "If ever a myth had become fact, had been incarnated, it would be just like this," marked a pivotal turn in his journey from skepticism to faith, deeply influenced by the timeless nature of God as the eternal "I am."

Application

Like Lewis, we too are often confronted with life's monumental tasks and uncertainties. It's in these moments we might find ourselves echoing Moses' question, "Who am I to face these challenges?" God’s response to Moses is a reminder of His unchanging presence in our lives. The declaration "I am who I am" invites us to trust in a God who is constant, present, and actively involved in our journey, even when we face our own 'Pharaohs'.

Conclusion

The journey of C.S. Lewis from doubt to belief underscores the profound effect of a personal encounter with God. The revelation of God as "I am" brings a reassurance of His eternal presence and unwavering faithfulness. In times when we are beset by uncertainties or when our faith wanes, reflecting on God as the unchanging "I am" can revitalize our resolve and belief. Similarly, our own experiences of questioning or lukewarm faith, much like Lewis', challenge us to consider the role of God as the absolute "I am" in our lives.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, just as You revealed Yourself to Moses and touched the heart of C.S. Lewis, reveal Yourself to us. Help us to understand and embrace You as the eternal "I am." In times of doubt and uncertainty, remind us of Your unchanging nature and Your constant presence in our lives. Strengthen our faith, and guide us on our journey towards a deeper understanding and relationship with You. Amen.

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Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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The Lenten Prayer for Monday, March 18, 2024

 

40 Days of Lenten Prayers
Day 29 — Monday of the Fifth Week of Lent


God of love, I know that you are the source of all that is good and graced in my life. Help me to move from the life of sin to which I so often cling, into the new life of grace you offer me. You know what I need to prepare for your kingdom. Bless me with those gifts. Amen.