Melodic Mondays
Those of you who know me know that I love music even though I am not musical myself. I listen to good music as often as I can. It is beneficial to the brain, valuable to the vocabulary, and strengthening to the soul. Isaiah 12:2-3 is a lovely passage that includes this soaring statement of surety: “The Lord JEHOVAH [YAHWEH] is my strength and my song.” This could be translated, “God is my mountaintop and my music.” Yes, He is! Each Monday, I want to study this subject and suggest a song to listen to. Anyone reading this devotional has easy access to any song. (I am an exception because I do not go on a computer or other information device.) If you do not like my suggestion (and we all have different tastes), you can think of or search for one that speaks to you. Then, it can become a source of encouragement throughout the week.
In Luke 18:9-14, Jesus relates the parable of the self-righteous Pharisee and the repentant publican (or formerly crooked tax-collector). The Pharisee was certain that he was acceptable to God, but Jesus instead commended the publican, who simply cried out, “God, be merciful to me a sinner” (verse 13). Jesus powerfully summarized, “I tell you, this man went down to his house justified [declared righteous] rather than the other” (verse 14a). All of us are sinners and deserve God’s judgment. However, God is always willing to withhold this punishment: that is mercy. He is ready to bestow His mercy upon anyone who calls out to Him. Blind Willie McTell and Curley Weaver celebrate this truth in the old Gospel song “Lord, Have Mercy If You Please.” It is also a good prayer for our nation as we approach Flag Day.