January 27, Reading 1 – Genesis 33:17-34:31

Reading

Audio, Visual

SAA Notes

What happens in today’s reading is the sorriest of stories. It is sordid, violent and bloody. There is dissension within the family over Dinah’s rape. Jacob is all for smoothing things over. Levi and Simeon find their father weak. We are permitted to see what they do in order that we might learn!

SJA Notes

* Dear God in Heaven, please teach us from Your word today, please write it on our hearts.

“But they said, ‘Should he treat our sister like a prostitute?'”

This is a tough passage to read and contemplate.

There is bad decision-making from all parties. The lust of the flesh is given reign, the desire for vengeance trumpets loud, and the fear of the world and wallowing about through inaction is clear.

Jesus calls us to a different path, a narrow road. True religion of the heart, to follow the Lord, is to choose to live under His laws, commands, statutes, His rules.

When we are tempted to choose to follow after our own desires, let us remember the Lord.

When the world is knocking at the door and beckoning us to folly, let us remember the Lord.

When those around us choose to enter into temptation, let us remember the Lord.

He is our light and strength, our guide and our Saviour. His word is what matters. His love is what satisfies.

Let us seek His face today and onwards.

* Dear Father God,

Please watch over our steps today, God O God of Israel.

Please arrest our selfish ways and worldly thinking. Please aright our hearts today.

Please mark us as a faithful people walking the narrow way toward glory.

This we pray.

Amen.

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