The Sounds of Suffering

Moab was a son of Lot by his eldest daughter. As though continuing the perversity from which he was born, the Moabites were characterized by idolatry with all the sacrilegious behaviors that accompany false worship. Isaiah describes the outcome of their behavior in a manner in keeping with the very rebellion of this people against God. Listen for the sounds of suffering in the wailing and weeping that weave themselves throughout this reading.

From 16:8, summer is emptied of its fullness as invaders ravage the land of Moab. Unrepented sin has its consequences. However, even for Moab, there is a remnant that will become seed for a new summer, even as from the seed of Ruth, the Moabitess of old, came Jesus. Jesus is relentless in compassion for those bound by sin. Stay close to the Lord today.

Isaiah 15—16

Mondays are dedicated to the reading of the Hebrew Prophets.
In the season of Pentecost this year we read Isaiah 13 – 27; Lamentations 1 and 2 on the Ninth Week.

What are “Bible Breaths”? Learn More…
Example: My heart throbbing for the lost 16:11

For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.

Radiating Outward

The word in Greek for the pity and compassion of Jesus refers to a profound inner emotion. The root of the word is splanchna, the Greek for “bowels.” From the tenderest feeling of love to the strongest outrage, the physical center of our bodies is the place from where deep feelings come.

Chapter 10 begins “The Missionary Discourse” of Jesus, the second of five major addresses in Matthew’s Gospel. The twelve apostles are named and sent forth, even as the hands of a clock point to the twelve hours that radiate outward to mark the movement of the day and night.

Today when you look at a clock or watch with a face, be reminded that you are going forth to a day of loving compassion and healing with the same energy of Jesus.

Matthew 9:35—10:8

What are “Bible Breaths”? Learn More…
Example: Like sheep without a shepherd 9:36

Sundays are dedicated to the Gospels from the Revised Common Lectionary.
During the Seasons of Pentecost and Kingdomtide, we read the Gospel of Matthew.


For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook.  You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.