ASLC Devotions - Tuesday

Isaiah 41:17 When the poor and needy seek water,
   and there is none,
   and their tongue is parched with thirst,
I the Lord will answer them,
   I the God of Israel will not forsake them. 

The witness of Scripture is pretty clear about God's expectations for the poor. It's related to yesterday's message about living a life pleasing to God by loving one another. The prophets speak God's voice clearly: the poor should have nothing to worry about as long as God's people are around. God's people should take care of the poor. Simple.

Of course it's not that simple. It doesn't always happen. It doesn't always happen today and it didn't always happen that way in biblical times. Sometimes those who have forget about those who have not. Sometimes those who have are willing to help the "deserving" poor but not the other kind, as if it's up to them to decide. So God says - I, for one will not forsake them. This doesn't mean we're off the hook. It's more the exasperated cry of God - we're supposed to be the first option.

In Christ,
Pastor Seth

Join us Wednesday for midweek Advent supper at 6:15 and worship at 7 as we use Holden Evening Prayer and consider Peace. In worship next Sunday, our young people (Sunday School and Confirmation) will present the Christmas story at the 8:30 service. We will worship at 11 as well. Holy Communion at both services. Visit http://www.allsaintspalatine.org for full information and respond to this email to be unsubscribed from the devotionals mailing list.