For a description of the (Y2) reading plan, see the “About” page.
Matt. 28
I like that Jesus appeared to the women first. Anybody who says that Christianity doesn’t value women isn’t paying attention. In general, the culture of the day did not put a high value on women, along with many other groups of people such as children and the disabled. Jesus, on the other hand, demonstrated consistently through His actions that He valued all equally. Taking the time to appear first to this small group of women who came to attend to His body is just one example of that.
Jer. 23-24
Compare and contrast the good shepherds and prophets with the bad. The servants of evil are evident by their fruit. They destroy and scatter, serve self, strengthen evildoers, and oppose God even while calling on His name. This was true of the leaders in Jeremiah’s day. It was just as true of the leaders in Jesus’ day and is true of our leaders, both in and outside the Church, today. Beware of those who speak feel-good, self-serving words. Beware of those whose words and policies pit people against one another. When people turn giving into taking, promote fear, support those who hate others, and ignore personal responsibility, you can be sure they aren’t from God. Beware of their words and their ways because you can be just as sure that God will bring on them the everlasting disgrace He promised.
Prov. 24
Who are the advisers in your life? Whom do you go to for guidance? How often? Our first and foremost advisor should be God’s Spirit within us. We stay in touch with Him by abiding in Christ – praying, engaging with His Word, living intentionally. We need to remember always that the war we wage is not against flesh and blood. A Spiritual war requires Spiritual Advisors. After that, though, it is good to have at least a few people whom you trust and know to be likewise seeking counsel from God. Though we do not rely on human wisdom, such people can keep us in check and accountable to God.