Then the LORD raised up judges, who saved them.

Judges 2:16a

The children of Israel were in constant trouble after the death of Joshua. They fell to the temptation of the idols around them. That put them into conflict with God’s plan. Their disobedience came with a high price. When they cried for help, God raised up judges who rescued them.

That was a reoccurring cycle: people sin, they cry for help, God sends a judge, people repent, peace is restored — rinse and repeat.

We can celebrate that we have a Savior in Jesus. Unfortunately, we still repeat the cycle. But rather than the temporary peace enjoyed by the children of Israel, we can dwell in the continuing peace of Jesus.

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can be messengers of grace, mercy, and peace in a troubled world. God desires to raise us up for that purpose.

Tom Couser
Dallas, TX

Dear Jesus, through the power of Your Holy Spirit, grant me a new sense of purpose this day. Amen.

Reflect: In your Baptism, you are a redeemed child of God.

Read: Isaiah 2:2-5 and 1 Peter 2:9-10