Home > Reading > The Daily Lectionary – November 11, 2016

zephaniah3-12

Today’s readings: Zephaniah 3:8-13; Revelation 17:1-18; Luke 13:31-35

In the time immediately following Jesus’ baptism, Satan directly attempted to cause him to abandon his mission of redemption. Today, the same devil attempts to thwart God’s plan through the efforts of others. Some Pharisees presented Herod as an obstacle along the road to the cross. Jesus paid little attention to their warning, electing to continue the work to which he was called. Such is the example for the mission driven Church today.

The realities of our fallen world are ever present. As we strive to carry out our life given in baptism, the world continues to place obstacles in the path of the faithful. Division, conflict, pride, anger, and envy are a few of Satan’s tools working to lead people away from a life in Christ.

The prophet Zephaniah encourages God’s people to seek mercy through God’s promise of the Redeemer. John the Seer is witness to God’s overcoming the corruption of worldly desires and his conquering of sin once and for all. And the example of our Lord teaches us that, even as the victory is won, we are free to accomplish the mission set before us: preaching the gospel of Christ while ministering to the needs of our neighbor.

Prayer: Holy God, keep us in faith that we may follow your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by David Nuottila, Pastor of Union Lutheran Church in Salisbury, NC.

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