JUNE 29 READING…2 KINGS 10 & MARK 10
To be a servant of the Lord requires not only obedience in the task He has appointed us to, but to live the standards that God requires of all those who belong to Him. Jehu was God’s instrument to rid Israel of every part of Ahab’s family, this was in fulfillment of the prophecy of Elijah. Our sensitivities are offended by the bloodshed mentioned in today’s reading. But, it is because of this bloodshed that Israel was rid of the cruel, ungodly, and murderous reign of the house of Ahab. Though the bloodshed seemed extreme, it actually saved more bloodshed. So, Jehu was obedient to God not only concerning the house of Ahab, but he also killed the priests and worshipers of baal. Sadly, Jehu did not refrain from idolatry in his personal life, so like Ahab, God put a limit on Jehu’s family reign over Israel. In Mark, we are reminded that when the Lord calls us to Himself, there can be nothing in our lives that we put before Him. The rich young ruler inquired of Jesus concerning how he could be saved. Jesus referred him to the law, which he said he had kept. Then Jesus said that he needed to go and sell all that he had and come follow Him. He went away sorrowful, for this was too much for him to do. Some find it unfair that Jesus would require this of him…but it is no different than what Jesus requires of all of us that would follow the Lord. The issue may be different, but the requirement is the same. Whatever the Lord sees in our life that stands as a barrier to us fully following God must be set aside. For the rich young ruler, it was his money. What is it for you and me?
Please share your thoughts.
TOMORROW’S READING…2 KINGS 11-12 & MARK 11