Home > Reading > The Daily Lectionary – July 20, 2016

matthew25-34

Joshua 3:1–13; Romans 11:25–36; Matthew 25:31–46

Sometimes one thinks, “I wish I had received the gift that he got.” Either the gift received was not one desired or the thought is, “I should have gotten that gift instead of him.” Usually, these are the immature thoughts of children.

The children of Israel had such thoughts about God’s gift of mercy to the rest of the nations. How dare God give to them what seemed rightfully Israel’s alone? He dared because he is both wise and merciful to all. His mercy defies our understanding. This is for our benefit. Yet, some in the churches end up doing much the same as the ancient Israelites. “How dare a person like that come to church?” might be overheard in the parking lot.

Israel may have hated it that Gentiles were given such a precious gift but it is the Father’s gift to give. He is Lord of all the earth, and with it, all its peoples. He first gave good gifts to Israel, but now gives salvation to all. The mature response is to thankfully receive the gift given, not to berate the other’s gift—and especially not to criticize the giver of all good gifts.

Prayer: Lord, help me be grateful for your gifts to others. Amen.

Today’s devotion was written by Mark Ryman, Communications Coordinator for the NALC.

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