Daily Reading 12-13-16
Jude 17-25 Living Bible (TLB)
Many of you know John and I have adopted a new puppy named Gracie. Gracie is now 5 months old and is full of energy ready to experience each day. We are trying to teach Gracie about boundaries; training her not to bolt out of an open door, stopping at the edge of the grass without going into the road, listening to our commands for her safety. She is learning there are limits and obedience is necessary. We are spending time speaking these commands because we love Gracie. She needs to stay within the reach of our love and care.
Through His Word, Father God teaches us about boundaries for our safety, as well. In today’s reading, Jude (brother of Jesus) reminds God’s family to listen in order to stay strong in the faith entrusted to every believer, because danger awaits those who are not paying attention. The Word is a guard for our lives that protects us as we explore and experience life; it’s a boundary that seeks to keep us within the reach of God’s love and shelter.
Jude 17-25Living Bible (TLB)
17 Dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ told you, 18 that in the last times there would come these scoffers whose whole purpose in life is to enjoy themselves in every evil way imaginable. 19 They stir up arguments; they love the evil things of the world; they do not have the Holy Spirit living in them.
20 But you, dear friends, must build up your lives ever more strongly upon the foundation of our holy faith, learning to pray in the power and strength of the Holy Spirit.
21 Stay always within the boundaries where God’s love can reach and bless you. Wait patiently for the eternal life that our Lord Jesus Christ in his mercy is going to give you.
22 Try to help those who argue against you. Be merciful to those who doubt. 23 Save some by snatching them as from the very flames of hell itself. And as for others, help them to find the Lord by being kind to them, but be careful that you yourselves aren’t pulled along into their sins. Hate every trace of their sin while being merciful to them as sinners.
24-25 And now—all glory to him who alone is God, who saves us through Jesus Christ our Lord; yes, splendor and majesty, all power and authority are his from the beginning; his they are and his they evermore shall be. And he is able to keep you from slipping and falling away, and to bring you, sinless and perfect, into his glorious presence with mighty shouts of everlasting joy. Amen.
Prayer: Father, thank you for placing your Word in my heart that I might know the boundaries within your perfect love. Help me to stay near, today, so I may enjoy your care and the blessing of your presence. In Jesus’ name. Amen.