Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8. We are not. As I keep reading the Old Testament and Deuteronomy 12 especially, I think of how far we have come in our understanding and yet, always the need to worship God in truth. You must not worship the Lord your God in their way, because in worshipping their gods, they do all kinds of detestable things the Lord hates. they even burn their sons and daughters in the fire as sacrifices to their gods. v. 31.

How does that relate to us today in 2023 A.D.? In 1800 A.D., in 1,000 A.D., in 1400 B.C.? Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. He is the Lord our God; his judgments are in all the earth. Psalm 105:4, 7.

The people were about to enter into a land filled with nations who did not worship God and their practices in that worship were worthless for them and detestable to God. They sacrificed their own children in the fire; they drank the blood of animals in their rituals to gain the animals strength. Worthless, harmful practices.

What about today? We have so much to be thankful for. We have the benefit of Scripture; of minds and hearts opened to the truth as the Spirit leads them to better understanding. God works through our misunderstandings and reveals His love throughout all the generations and it takes time and patience. Every generation faces challenges unique to their time. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light. Micah 7:8.

In our Discipleship class before Church yesterday we were so blessed to be gathered together. Like minds seeking God. No two minds alike, we brought depth of understanding as we shared our walk and search. We chuckled, we nodded our heads in understanding of how imperfect we are, we were vulnerable together. Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often have I longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing. Look, your house is left to you desolate. For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Matthew 23:37-39.

They couldn’t understand then. They were sitting in darkness even though their Messiah was right there before them. Think of the 2 millennia between then and now. Think of all the changes in understanding each generation has undergone with the help of the Holy Spirit guiding us. Yesterday and today. Forever yet to come. Imagine what we will understand when God Himself teaches us face to face in His great love and mercy! Lord, help me grow in longing for You to lead me as You will and help my heart be open and receptive to all you would have me do and understand. You are my light in the darkness.