Today's reading: Matthew 10
The Word of Christ I can't help noticing is verse 16: "Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves." That's a sobering statement. But it also sends me back to my Shepherd. Though the table be set "in the presence of my enemies," I need not fear "for He is with me" (Psalm 23).
What's your Word?
Today's reading: Matthew 9
One Word of Christ that grabs my attention today is bridegroom. Jesus asks, "Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?" (v. 15). The implication, of course, is that Jesus is the divine bridegroom. I'm thinking about this, too, because (spoiler alert) it comes up in this Sunday's readings, too. What a gift that our Savior has come to make us His own!
Today's reading: Matthew 8
This gets a little meta, but the Word of Christ that jumps out at me today is "with a word"—as in, what Jesus uses to cast out evil spirits (v. 16). Lord, this is why it's so vital for your Word to dwell richly within me: it has power! Grant that your healing, renewing Word take residence in my heart. "Cast out our sin, and enter in, / be born in us today!" (LSB 361:4).
What's your Word?
Today's reading: Matthew 7
Oof, Jesus gets my attention today with the word evil: "If you then, who are evil..." (v. 11). His point isn't to denigrate me, but to exalt God. Even in my sinful nature I understand basic kindness; how much more does my loving Heavenly Father pour forth His goodness?
What's your Word?
Today's reading: Matthew 6
One word I can't help noticing today is when. Jesus says "when you give to the needy" (v. 2) and "when you pray" (v. 5) and "when you fast" (v. 16). Not if, but when. He's assuming that, as His disciple, I'll live this way: prayerfully, generously, piously. Lord, let me live into the new life you've given me!
What's your Word?
Today's reading: Matthew 5
So much here! But I have to go with the very last word of the chapter: perfect (v. 48). It's not only our Lord's will for me; it's His promise to me. He who began a good work in me will bring it to perfection unto the Day of Christ (Philippians 1:6). Grant it, Father, through your Spirit!
What's your Word?
Today's reading: Matthew 3-4 (note the two chapters)
One word that grabs me today is prevented: "John would have prevented him..." (v. 14). John has every good intention in mind when he seeks to stop Jesus from being baptized. And in doing so, he's flying in the face of God's good purposes. When have I sought to prevent God from His work—even if that work seemed counterintuitive?
What's your Word?