May 5
5Then I said:
“Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments…” (Nehemiah 1:5)
I had to skip ahead to tomorrow’s readings to extract some inspiration. When you finish the Book of Ezra, that book wraps up with Ezra praying for the Israeli people that their sin of interracial marriage is forgiven. Then the last chapter, Ezra 10, finishes with the author putting everyone on blast who was guilty of intermarriage. Great, positive xenophobia from the Jewish faith. But not to worry friends, that book is behind us and the Book of Nehemiah includes some better praises and reading. One thing I do want to point out from that verse above is the end of that prayer. God is the God who keeps His covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments. God loves all His children, but He does not always extend His blessings on them if they do not love Him in return and follow His commandments. And those commandments are simple: Love God. Love People.
I shared quite a bit of media yesterday: my favorite podcast, my favorite Pastor, another track off my favorite Elevation Worship album. Yep, I said it. The verdict is out. “Old Church Basement” is a masterpiece. And today I am sharing my favorite track off that wonderful work of art. Chris Brown really shines in this one. From the opening lines, “I am living proof of what the mercy of God can do.” This song speaks deeply to my soul.
Reading plan: Acts 5
Deeper reading plan: Ezra 9, 10
Common Sense Reborn 