If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead. – Luke 16:31
The Christmas carols have been sung for almost a month, and Handel’s Messiah has been presented in various venues. The sweetness of the tiny baby in the manger has been portrayed on church lawns, displayed in people’s yards, and even projected on garage doors. Though the message of peace on Earth has been broadcast, has the worldliness of the season infringed upon the “reason for the season?“
Today’s verse comes from the parable of the unnamed rich man and the beggar, Lazarus. To the Pharisees and other religious leaders of the day, wealth was a sign of righteous living – it was not viewed as a hindrance to religion. In stark contrast, the poor were considered inferior and sinful. Jesus, however, shone new light on life in the here and now, and life beyond death. On Earth, the rich man lived in flamboyant opulence, while Lazarus begged for crumbs from the rich man’s table and relied on stray dogs to clean his sores. Their circumstances reversed in death – the rich man found himself in torment in Hades, but the beggar was comforted next to Abraham’s bosom.
God gives prosperity to humans so that they might glorify Him as Maker and be of help to those in need. When selfishness and worldliness inhabit the spirit, the enjoyment will be limited to this life alone.
In this joyful season, people may be more open to hearing the truth of the message of salvation. Be bold in sharing the Good News – salvation is the gift of most importance. Let the announcement of the Savior’s birth be followed by the life-giving message of the cross. Pray for those who hear His story to respond with joy-filled acceptance of God’s indescribable gift.
Today’s Verse: Luke 16:31
1 He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the Prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.’”
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: 2 Corinthians 9:10-15
10 He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. 12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. 13 By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, 14 while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. 15 Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
