From Orphans to RoyaltyWritten by Joyce C. Lock
The first time I read Ezekiel 16, I cried all way through it. It's a story of God's heart, as a betrayed husband; with every jealousy, hurt, rage, or emotion felt by humans. Yet, whenever we're hurting, few consider if we're doing same things to God. Whether spiritually, literally, or both … perhaps, each of us has once been such a person who betrayed God. Just as dust returns to dust, blood returns to blood (vs. 22, 36), 'til pride of man be broken (vs.15) and we're ready to accept God's way (vs. 55); whatever that may be. And, just when you see your blood for what it is and you're ready to accept punishment you know you deserve, God reaches down and loves you in ways you never dream; restoring you to a better position than you ever had before (vs. 60-63). Once an atonement is received (unlawful/a shame to ever speak of again), you'll never forget awesome love of God, throughout all eternity. "He loves me! He really, really loves ME!"
| | Given MuchWritten by Joyce C. Lock
When you read scripture, "For unto whomsoever much is given, of him, much shall be required," Lu. 12:48, do you think of a pastor who walks and talks with God or a professor, abounding in knowledge? Maybe, you think of a gospel singer, whose voice surely must be likened unto an angel, or a musician, whose hands touch heart of God. Perhaps, someone, in prominent places, comes to mind; positions of prosperity, power, and such. But, did you count those saved from near death, those whose homes have been restored, those who've received miracle of healing, or those saved from financial ruin? Did you count those with food on their table, a roof over their head, someone to love, and a pillow for their bed? Did you count those born, in this day and time, in a country where we still have freedoms; to consider privilege of education and worship, to work and provide for your own, to have privacy and ownership?
|
