Home > Reading > NALC Devotions – November 13, 2017

Today’s readings: Jeremiah 44:1-14; 1 Corinthians 15:30-41; Matthew 11:16-24

A retiree sat at church with his nose glued to his cellphone screen. His pastor joked, “Oh, these kids and their phones these days…” We also seriously complain about a great many things. The subject of our grumbling may be the younger generation, a political party, the president, even a professional athlete, or simply someone who has been unfortunate enough to make the news. But we rarely complain about ourselves. That’s okay; prophets and apostles have done that for you.

Jeremiah speaks for the Lord, wondering how his people could commit evil against themselves by ignoring God’s commands. Paul warns us to wake up from our drunken stupor and stop sinning. Jesus, too, was no stranger to criticizing people; he complained about entire generations, countries, and peoples. His complaints came in the form of dire warnings, not unlike Jeremiah’s.

Will we listen? Will we ever get around to protesting our own behaviors? Will we confess our lack of faith and obedience, calling upon the Lord’s mercy? Oh, God’s children these days; will they ever change?

Prayer: Open my ears, Lord, that I may hear your Spirit. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Mark Ryman, Communications Coordinator for the NALC and Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Advance, NC. 

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