Loading more...
Hope Springs Forth
Throughout the year, we have continued to celebrate the 90th anniversary of The Upper Room daily Read More
Gift & Mazvita Machinga | Read Matthew 3:7-12
In verse eight of this text, John the Baptist calls people to change their behavior in preparation for the coming of Jesus the Messiah. Believers must behave differently as they prepare for his arrival. Their actions must show that they have experienced transformation and repentance. The New Living Translation says,...
What do you need to turn toward God as you work to bring about God’s kingdom?
The scripture readings this week center on the anticipation for a righteous and just ruler, divinely appointed, who will bring prosperity, defend the afflicted, and crush oppression. The passages also touch upon the role of John the Baptist in heralding the coming of the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing repentance and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. The broader context suggests a connection between the Hebrew Bible prophecies of a coming ruler and the arrival of John the Baptist. Additionally, there is an overarching call for repentance and the acknowledgment of God’s glory and marvelous deeds.
• Read Isaiah 11:1-10. Reflect on a time in your life when God brought transformation to a seemingly hopeless situation.
• Read Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19. Consider the ways you lead in your church or community. How can you better lead toward God’s righteousness, justice, and peace?
• Read Romans 15:4-13. Who needs to be welcomed and loved by you or your congregation? How have you closed doors to people seeking Jesus because of your judgment and unwelcoming environment?
• Read Matthew 3:1-12. What are you doing to make a clear pathway for Christ in your life?
Respond by posting a prayer.
