Kingdom Manna

Found

Luke 15:24, “‘for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ And they began to celebrate.”

Newspapers eager to find different angles for their features often report how cities clean up their streets, shuffle of their homeless, and drive dignitaries pre-determined routes to hide certain areas. Relief organizations often meet bureaucracy or apathy in attempts to reach those in need.

Every country, every city has the lost and abandoned. They are on the streets, in jails, orphanages, hospitals, school and homes. Some are rejected. Some themselves reject. Families torn by war rejoice when re-united. Families torn by choice walk with sorrow.

Nameless and known. To God all sons and daughters for whom He waits. Steadfastly watching, waiting. With expectancy and hope and love. Unconditional. No questions asked. No recrimination. Open arms. Running towards us.

Eager to reclaim His own. Eager to shout. Eager to throw a party.

Near and far the sounds of joy travel. And others hear. And wonder. And marvel at Your love. And many may take their first step towards home.

Psalm of Worship: Psalm 145:7-8

They shall celebrate the fame of your abundant goodness, and shall sing aloud of your righteousness.

The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.

Leaving Egypt Behind

Scripture: Exodus 12:14, Now this day will be a memorial to you, and you shall celebrate it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations you are to celebrate it as a permanent ordinance.

During family feasts, children often love to eavesdrop on grown-ups. They hear stories passed on from generation to generation, the antics of now staid adults, the memories of their parents.

Joyous ones, funny ones, favorite ones are usually embellished. Once the youngsters grow bored and leave, sad moments and dark days are told in lowered tones. They combine fact grounded events with a mysterious, once upon a time, distance. These threads of heritage form bands that last a life-time, providing identity and foundation.

“Observe this event” God told Israel. The Lord God Himself descended from heaven to execute judgment, to free His people. Not a story, not a dream.

“Observe this rite.” Pass it on to each family member that the Passover may not be forgotten or lost in dulled memories. Keep it fresh so each generation may know His name, His power, His love, His possibilities.

I forget to worship as I should, Lord, with honor and thanksgiving for Your heritage to me. You continue to save throughout the ages, grafting each of us into Your family, Your stories, Your truths. May I acknowledge and celebrate You, everyday.

Psalm of Worship: Psalm 100:5

For the Lord is good;

His lovingkindness is everlasting,

And His faithfulness to all generations.