This weak in Jefferson area 5

This week's readings for Sunday worship are Genesis 32:22-31 and Psalm 121 • 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 • Luke 18:1-8. I read both cycles actually so I read Jeremiah 31:27-34 and Psalm 119:97-104 also. Jacob wrestles with God due to his own sins against the brother he was going to meet gets a new name (Israel) but ends up limping forever in this life. God promises to the house of Judah and Israel a new covenant one day where the Law will be written on the hearts of his people and sins are never remembered. The Psalmist rejoices in the Law of God and hates every false way. The other Psalmist rejoices that the Lord guards our going out and coming in, keeping our feet from slipping so as to fall away. Paul writes that Scripture equips us for all we need to be proficient in life and every good work. And Luke records that if a human judge may eventually do what is right for the widow who beleaguers him, how much more will God do for his people willingly when we need it -- and we will always be in need.

So I look forward to God's provision, especially in the new covenant which Jesus introduced to all who have faith in God the Father. For as Jesus says, those who love the Father love him. As for those who fled God's guarding of them because they loved this world too much, they may have slipped but I cannot help them. Their argument is with God even if they collectively sinned against me and the local church, and the congregations of God throughout our nation.

I will not worry about meeting the Esau in my life, but only because I've wrestled with the Lord and got a new name. I may actually even limp until I die, but that's due to aches and pains currently and sometimes I walk just fine (for 5 minutes or more). I do not wish the Esau in my life ill, but we walk different fields and in different directions. I will not cause Esau to stumble, but only God can make his feet sure. But first Esau must get right before God the Father and Jesus our Master. I cannot do that for Esau.

So I do go step by step in the right direction and if that remains a long series it will qualify as obedience. It is hard to run with the horses, but I know the One who whistles wild horses to turn and stay calm. For me, it is hard to soar with the eagles since I am a turkey.

I'll let Jesus continue pulling the hard work, and I'll walk in his footsteps and shadow. I'm also glad Jesus walks slowly so I need not fear. He really is here, you know. He is right here while I type this, and like Job I hope that I have spoken was is right about him.

I'm also glad that if my parents eat sour grapes my teeth don't clinch. I don't look good with a pinched pucker.


Peace to all who shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Shalom to you.
gralan