Friday, August 07, 2009

Darius Is No Dummy

Give the priests in Jerusalem whatever is needed in the way of young bulls, rams, and male lambs for the burnt offerings presented to the God of heaven. And without fail, provide them with as much wheat, salt, wine, and olive oil as they need each day. Then they will be able to offer acceptable sacrifices to the God of heaven and pray for the welfare of the king and his sons. [Ezra 6.9-10]

That Darius was no dummy, huh? But [Question:] what was it about the Jews that caused Darius to hold them in this regard? [Answer:] They were obviously known for their prayer! And, more specifically, they were known to pray for the welfare of their king and even his sons. Now THAT is a legacy.

And, in the NT reading today, Paul further denounces the milk suckers who, rather than building upon the foundation of the message of the cross, have begun to build upon the foundation of the one(s) who shared the message of the cross with them. It would seem Paul is indicating the that the clear sign of immaturity is division in the body - while in the other hand, unity in the body would naturally depict maturity...

Father, help me to grasp what You are saying through the Bible. Help me to absorb Your Word. Thank You for the message of the cross. Let my growth be upon that foundation and let it be real ---and obvious.

No comments: