Day 267: Crazy Witnesses

Revelation 11; Esther 1; Psalm 105:1-25

Whoa, the story of the two witnesses sounds incredibly powerful and terrifying! These two people, who have stood in the presence of God, will come and proclaim The Lord. For a time, they will destroy anyone who tries to harm them, they will prevent rain, and turn water into blood. If people hear and see this, how could they deny the God of heaven? So many will be so stubborn or brainwashed that they will reject what they are seeing. What is also sad, is that these two will be killed but their bodies will lay and rot for 3 days. Then, miraculously, they will rise from the dead in front of the whole world. One comment that is made in this passage refers to the city of Jerusalem. It says that the "city is spiritually like the city of Sodom or the country of Egypt." The holy city of The Lord will be corrupt, disgusting, and sinful. Sad and scary.

The first chapter in Esther is a perfect example of how  pride and boastfulness can destroy a relationship. Xerxes had paraded everything else in his kingdom around and decided it was time to do the same with his wife. But, she decided that she was not a trophy to be shown off to the world and refused. Xerxes was angry and felt the need to protect his reputation and pride. It isn't uncommon for people to seek protection of their image at the cost of others.

This psalm begins by saying "tell, tell" and "praise, sing, celebrate" what God has done. It's a good reminder that we need to praise God for simply who he is, what he has done, and the miracles that happen in our lives. And what are we supposed to do with this information? Tell it! Share it! Sing it out! This psalm also chronicles what God did for his people. They were homeless and hungry, but God had already orchestrated a plan to help them. He doesn't leave them high and dry, down and out, left to fend for themselves. Even though Joseph was sold as a slave by his brothers, God used that time to test him and then bring him honor. It's crazy, but it is how God builds our character and brings his greater plan into focus.