Monday, August 16, 2021
Today’s Scripture
Today’s Author
Jamie Butcher
What is your preferred genre for a “beach read”? Do you like romance or psychological thrillers? Maybe you pick up a classic or a spiritual autobiography. Personally, I am a sci-fi/fantasy fan. Having started with G.R.R. Martin and J.R.R. Tolkein, I’ve recently explored the works of N.K. Jemisin and Octavia Butler. Perhaps it’s because these stories are fresh in my mind that the prophecy in this Pentecost text sticks with me.
And I will show portents in the heaven above
and signs on the earth below,
blood, and fire, and smoky mist.
The sun shall be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood,
before the coming of the Lord’s great and glorious day.
Joel’s prophecy promises that all things change. While not unexpected news for humanity, the radical illustrations are alarming. But strange signs and portents are meant to upend so-called, established truths so preservation of THE truth prevails. It’s an orientation to a new life when your own is quite disorienting.
Like when you’ve been accused of inebriation at 9:00 a.m. Or when your cradle culture no longer speaks your language. Or when your favored and familiar power structures are gone. Or when your savior died. And it’s not such a crazy idea, after all, that your sun could go dark and your moon turn to blood.
All things change - Joel’s prophecy promises us that. But the good news? The best news? The only thing you really need to know? God goes with us through it all.
Summer Devotional
God Goes With Us
This summer’s devotional is a walk through the Bible. Join our pastors and staff for daily reflections on scripture passages from Genesis to Revelation. In the beginning, God said, “I will be your God and you will be my people.” Come and see how this covenant promise changes through time yet remains steadfast from generation to generation.
Each Sunday, Chris Holmes will share a short message on the texts for the week, and written reflections will go out every Monday through Thursday morning.
We wish you blessings and deeper faith this summer!
