Old Testament reading: Genesis 38-40
After being introduced to Joseph in our last reading (Gen 37), and seeing the despicable way in which both he and Israel were treated by his older brothers, the narrative turns back to Judah and his deceitful treatment of his daughter in law, Tamar (Gen 38). Of note is our first exposure to what would eventually become known as the Levirate Law (Deut 25:5), wherein a younger brother goes into his elder brother’s widow to raise up an heir to the deceased. Judah is eventually brought face to face with his error, and acknowledges that Tamar “has been more righteous than I” (38:26). After these things, the remaining Genesis narrative turns to the life and death of Joseph in Egypt, with his brothers and father playing supporting roles in the account. In Genesis 39-40, we read of the rise and “fall” of Joseph in Egypt and the continuing theme of Joseph’s life: things that were intended to be evil against Joseph always worked themselves out for his good and the good of others. In like fashion, we should always give consideration that our troubles should also eventually work to our good and the benefit of others.
New Testament reading: Mark 3-4
“I’m afraid I’ve committed blasphemy against the Holy Spirit!” Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, (a.k.a. “the unforgivable sin” – 3:20-30) has troubled the minds of countless souls through the years. I have read articles and commentaries and listened to sermons on the subject of the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. I have received dozens of inquiries through the years, many by those who fear they have somehow committed “the unforgivable sin.” If you are among them, be of good cheer! Mark’s statement in verse 30 forever puts to rest the notion that this sin can be committed today. Those who witnessed Jesus casting out demons accused Him of so doing by the power of the Devil. Only the hardest of hearts could witness such a magnificent miracle and attribute such to the power of Satan. Moreover, Jesus rebuked them for their logical inconsistency – If Satan is casting out Satan, then his kingdom or house cannot stand. We should not live in fear of committing this sin today, for we cannot witness the miracles of Jesus and attribute them to the Devil.
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