|
|
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Today's Frontline Devotion January 9, 2008 TURN |
A daily |
Frontline Devotion for Wednesday, January. 9, 2008 by Penny Risen
Psalm 30: 11-12
“You have turned my mourning into dancing!
You have taken off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, so that my soul may
praise You and not be silent.
O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever.”
In these days after Epiphany, it’s natural to turn our thoughts toward Jesus the boy and His family. What did they do, how did they live, and what was Jesus’ childhood like? The New Testament is largely silent about these early days before Jesus took on His mission, but we can gain some understanding if we look at how Jewish families lived.
After the death in 4 B.C.E. of the wicked and vengeful King Herod, Joseph and his family left their refuge in Egypt and returned to Nazareth. The Lord, who had warned of danger in Palestine, sent a message to Joseph in a dream to pack up, go safely home and resume a normal life with the child Jesus. Bible history tells us that there was no mourning of Herod among the Jews. No doubt family and friends of Joseph and Mary shared in huge celebrations in villages and towns, relieved that the tyrant who’d persecuted the Jews was dead. There must have been a great deal of dancing and singing as the news spread.
“God has delivered us from our troubles!” the Jews must have declared in praise at this turn of events. The young Jesus, who by then was a fledgling student of the Torah, likely heard Psalms of praise chanted by His grateful people. The songs of lamentations were turned into joy in those early days of hope. Families from the House of David could settle down and enjoy a time of peace --- nurturing the boy Jesus in shared heritage, love and God’s Word.
In first-century Nazareth, Jesus probably gathered regularly with other youngsters for their village rabbi’s lessons and debates. We can imagine young Jesus memorizing passages from His synagogue school’s scrolls, and as the obedient first son He must have excelled in reciting Scripture and Psalms. Surely Jesus knew and respected that His lineage was traced to the author of many psalms, King David and his dynasty.
Today’s Psalm 30 takes a decided turn from the lamentations of the first several dozen Psalms; instead of a plea, it contains a shout of praise for God’s mercy and love. As we remember Mary, Joseph and young Jesus and their relief to be home and safe, let us echo the beautiful, timeless and meaningful message of “turning mourning into dancing.” We know our Lord will deliver us from our troubles, turn us from dark places in our lives, and restore us into the light.
Prayer for the day: Dear Lord, just as I know You protected Jesus and His family, I trust You to shield me and mine from evil and darkness. Help me to turn from mourning and despair, and look in hope to the days ahead. Amen.
|
All are welcome to join and share in our Devotional Ministry on the "Frontlines" of the world. Frontline Devotions are sent via email daily. Sign up by clicking on the box to the left. Pastor Dave welcomes feedback. Contact him at pastordave@goodshepherdonline.org. |
Visit the |
|||||||||||
