But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief.
Job 16:5 (NIV)
| Calling for a
Sacred Assembly (Joel 2)
by Cathy Vinson |
Perhaps the
Lord is using the concept of sacred assemblies for our day (this even being confirmed by
Promise Keepers' call to one in our nation's capitol this past week in October). In
Israel's history, such gatherings of repentance were called at strategic times changing
Israel's future and diverting judgment. In the case of Joel 2, we see God turn to
"take pity on His people" (vs 18). Knowing the time and responding was crucial.
For the one who "prepared the way" for Jesus, John the Baptist cleared the channel through repentance. Do we hear the same warnings? John asked, "WHO warned you to flee the coming wrath?" (Mt 3:7). Who is? We want to save our lives, our investments, and maintain our well-being at all cost. Is this God warning us? "Produce fruit in keeping with repentance" (Mt 3:8). Restitution, reconciation follow. Isn't there also a "smiting of one's own chest?" "Then you will remember your evil ways and wicked deeds, and you will loath yourselves for your sins and detestable practices" (Ez 36:18). Please be listening. Is this the time of calling a "sacred assembly?" Who knows if responding to the timely call will play a part in what God does next? |
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| Then the
Lord will pity his people and be indignant for the honor of his land! (Joel 2:185)
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Send a note to Cathy Vinson , the writer of this devotion.
Other Whispers from the Wilderness Devotions are found HERE
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