Genesis 9:18-29; Hebrews 6:1-12; John 3:22-36
One of the joys I have is teaching youth about the catechism and the Scripture. One lesson that I particularly enjoy is teaching the importance of the word “promise,” whether it be found in Luther’s Small Catechism or in the Bible. It is important when teaching about promises in God’s Word to differentiate between our idea of promise and God’s idea which is described as covenantal. What is the difference and does it matter?
God’s promises are everlasting. His promises to Noah and his family were accompanied by a rainbow, a sign that reminds us that God’s promises are everlasting from generation to generation. Raising two children, I stress the importance of making lasting promises. “I promise to never do that again, Dad.” Yet that promise is met with the reality of our sinful human condition. Our promises are limited by our sinful human nature. We are limited by our inability to see past our own needs and desires but God’s holy will is limitless. He fulfills his promises and they are never failing.
Prayer: Dearest Jesus, we are grateful for the promise of love and redemption that speak of God’s commitment to us. Amen.
Today’s devotion was written by Kris L. Snyder, Pastor of Gonvick Lutheran Parish, Gonvick, MN.