Israel restored
Day 424, Thursday, Oct. 9
Ezekiel Chapters 45 – 46
Today’s reading sounds a lot like when we were learning the ritual law with its focus on offerings and festivals.
In 45:9 we are reminded, as we so often are, that offerings and festivals and rituals aren’t all there is to keeping obedience to God’s commands.
“This is what the Sovereign Lord says: You have gone far enough, princes of Israel! Give up violence and oppression and do what is just and right. Stop dispossessing my people, declares the Sovereign Lord.”
The ritual law was never intended as a substitute for righteousness, but as an assurance of forgiveness when we accidentally failed God
Today’s reading from Psalm 4 addresses it well: “Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord.”

-Rev. Mark Fleming

Thursday meditation

Psalms 4:1-8
Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer.
How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him.
Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord.
Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us. Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound.
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.

Prayer focus
God, guide us to live righteous lives and trust in you.