Today’s Scripture readings: Palms 137, 144, Jeremiah 31: 27-34, Romans 11: 25-36, John 12: 37-50

Today’s writer: Bill Bullock 

One of the frustrating things for me in reading Scripture is I often think the readings do not apply
to my current situation (i.e. what I’m currently feeling or struggling with). Yet, once I take time
to quiet my spirit and ask God what he is trying to say to me, I usually find comfort, wisdom,
guidance in the readings.

In today’s readings, the following phrases stuck out to me.

“He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, so they can neither see with their
eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn – and I would heal them …many even
among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not openly
acknowledge their faith for they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved
human praise more than praise from God. …Whoever believes in me does not believe in
me only, but the one who sent me. The one who looks at me is seeing the one who sent
me.” John 12:40 – 45

It always reassuring to me that God wants an intimate (heart to heart) relationship with me. That
even though I may sin and be unworthy “God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable…For God has
bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on the all.” Romans 11:29 & 32
I am also reminded to pray often, almost daily, that God would soften my heart and open my
eyes and ears so that I may see His glory and do His will. Without open eyes to see, ears to hear,
and a heart for God, it impossible to follow Christ.