Day 339: Epic Tale

Luke 1:1-25; Ezekiel 33; Isaiah 57

The way Luke starts his book sounds like the beginning of en epic story: "Many people have tried to tell the story of what God has done among us..." This is the story of Jesus, the most epic story ever. I find that fiction novels that have the greatest power, that are most popular, have elements of Christ in them. (No joke, Harry Potter: represented by lions, snakes, defeating evil, resurrection, etc.) So let the most powerful, epic, life-changing story begin!

I wonder why Elizabeth did not leave the house for 5 months during her pregnancy? God had obviously worked a miracle for her and Zechariah. I suppose it might be for the same reason Zechariah was struck mute. Perhaps it was a time of growth, a time of deepening faith, focusing solely on the God who gives us a voice and life. I think there are times in our lives where we need solitude, time to go inward and upward to focus and grow.

In Ezekiel, God says that our past is behind us, it cannot save or condemn us in the present. If we made mistakes in the past but want to live holy lives, awesome, God will love us and bless us as we are now. If we did great in the past but slide into sin, then God will love us but discipline us, just as we choose to live at the moment.

The idols and sin that are listed in Isaiah 57 are still around today. People seek the spirits of the dead, they put pagan symbols around their houses, they abuse sex, kill their children, and run after all sorts of idols. I think people like to think that our generation is the worst it's ever been--but the more I read the Old Testament, the more I have to disagree. Things are no different than they have ever been, it just looks different in the 21st century.

However, there is good stuff in this chapter! God promises that even if the faithful followers of The Lord are dragged off and killed, they will find peace in obeying God. There is so much more after death! He also promises that no matter what, no matter where we are, God will heal us, protect us, give us comfort and joy if we worship him. God doesn't like to see wicked people die or punished (he says that in Ezekiel), but he wants to bless. God isn't mean or cruel, he's just fair. Thank The Lord for his wisdom that knows my heart and draws me closer to him. I pray that we can all learn to follow him no matter what the cost, basking in his blessings and promises no matter what our circumstances are.