Daily Bible Reading - October 2020: God’s Life-Giving Word of Justice and PeaceSample

October 13

Introduction

Today’s reading is in the form of an oracle in which punishment is pronounced on God’s enemies. Edom in particular is singled out for destruction, perhaps because it was believed that Edom had allied with Babylonia to defeat Judah in 587 B.C. The nation of Edom is usually described in the Bible as an enemy of Israel (see Numbers 24:18; 1 Samuel 14:47; 2 Samuel 8:13, 14).

Scripture Reading 

Isaiah 34:1-17

Today’s Key Verse: Isaiah 34:1

Come, people of all nations! Gather around and listen. Let the whole earth and everyone living on it come here and listen.

Reflect

Today’s reading opens with a call to people everywhere to come and listen. Why are they being summoned? What is the message they are to hear? What is going to happen to the land of Edom (verses 5-13)? Verse 8 says that “this is the time when the LORD will rescue Zion and take vengeance on her enemies.” (Zion means God’s people in Judah and Jerusalem.) What does this verse teach you about God?

Pray

Lord God, teach me to listen to your voice when you call. Summon me to listen to your teachings. In your great mercy, you have rescued me from my sins. I thank and praise you for your unfailing love and compassion. Amen. 

Prayer Concern

First responders, firefighters, emergency medical personnel

Tomorrow’s Reading

Isaiah 50:1-11: The LORD's servant speaks to the people living in exile.