Reflection on readings for March 17

O grant us help against the foe,
for human help is worthless.
With God we shall do valiantly;
it is God who will tread down our foes.
(Psalm 60:l1-12)

Numbers 26:1-51
The new census. The new generation begins with a new census--Will the new generation be any different from the earlier one?

Every church has a geneology. The history of every congregation includes people, family, and clergy who have shaped its character. New leaders emerge, but their work is affected by the ideals and the shortcomings of their predecessors.

A new census is taken. The first census had been in preparation for battle, for fulfillment of the promise of nationhood. This census, although also for preparation for war, has inheritance as its major theme. Distribution of land by size of clan; of location, by lot.

Only male children can inherit land. land is to be kept within the clan that first inherits it.

Luke 2:36-52
Lesson to be learned from the Prophet Anna:  Here are some excuses that will not work:

I'm too old.
I'm not important.
I don't have family support.
I'm not able to get around very far.

At least, they didn't work for Anna. Why is it that we don't speak about what we know?

Psalm 60:1-12

Proverbs 11:15

Prayer for Today: O Lord, our God, open us to your presence in our lives. Instill within us the willingness and the courage to recognize that presence. Amen.