Scripture Nugget 2.28.2017

Scripture Read Judges 17-21

Nugget Judges 17:6, 18:1a, 19:1a, 21:25

“In those days there was no king in Israel; all the people did what was right in their own eyes. … In those days there was no king in Israel. … In those days, when there was no king in Israel, … In those days there was no king Israel; all the people did what was right in their own eyes.”

Devotional thought: In those days God was amongst the people yet the people of Israel did not follow God, nor did God provide a judge, someone to hold the people accountable in accordance with the boundaries that God set. The people, individually did what was right in their own eyes. Sin was prevalent; theft, idolatry, dis-honoring mother, opportunistic priest wrangling their own appointment, broken prayer life, the people not asking God for direction but to bless their decisions, war, rape, inhospitality, murder, and rash vows. “In those days there was no king in Israel, all the people did what was right in their own eyes.” As Wesley states, “What wonder was it then, if all wickedness overflowed the land?” (Notes, 21:25) Who or what is “king” in my life? This is a timely question to ask ourselves as tomorrow is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, a focused period (40 days) to prepare us to receive the gift of Easter, the resurrected life. As yourself; what is it in my life that separates me from God, what sin do I need to realize, admit, confess and repent of? Which means of grace do I need to participate in? Every day is an opportunity to become more like Christ, Lent is a time to be intentional about allowing God’s grace to work in and through us. How do you respond? Who is King in your life, in your family’s, your congregation, your community, your nation?