Today’s reading

Judges 12-14; Luke 9:37-62

Selected Verses

His father and mother did not know that it was from the Lord, for he was seeking an opportunity against the Philistines. At that time the Philistines ruled over Israel. Judges 14:4

But while they were all marveling at everything he was doing, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let these words sink into your ears: The Son of Man is about to be delivered into the hands of men.” Luke 9:43-44

Reflections

Samson had a promising beginning. The angel of the Lord foretold his birth. The Spirit of God came upon him. He had godly parents. But his character proved to be deeply flawed. Many of his failures had to do with his weakness for women.

Ignoring God’s law and his parents’ warning, Samson chose a wife from the Philistines. It grieved his father and mother. How could they foresee the victory over the Philistines his decision would bring about? Indeed, Samson would pay dearly for his foolishness, but God accomplished His will and defeated the enemy of Israel.

In Luke 9 we see Jesus at one of the high points of His earthly ministry. He delivered a demon possessed boy, and the crowd voiced amazement at the majesty of God (vs. 43). As they marveled at Jesus’ power, He turned to His disciples telling them of His imminent arrest.

Think about it

As incredible as it seems, Jesus’ arrest, trial, and crucifixion were not examples of history going wild and the world out of control. Luke reports the words of Peter in Acts 2:22-23: “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know— this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men.”

The most horrific and evil deed in all of human history, the crucifixion of the Son of God, resulted in salvation for all time for all His people. While God commands us to be obedient to Him, He uses even our sin for good ends. Many know Romans 8:28 but too often forget it. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

We know it. Now, praise God that it's true.

© 2017 John A Carroll Used by permission