Ordinary Time

Pause

We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. We have access by faith into this grace in which we stand through him, and we boast in the hope of God’s glory. … This hope doesn’t put us to shame, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Romans 5:1b–2, 5

Listen

This is what the Lord of heavenly forces says: In just a little while, I will make the heavens, the earth, the sea, and the dry land quake. I will make all the nations quake. The wealth of all the nations will come. I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of heavenly forces. The silver and the gold belong to me, says the Lord of heavenly forces. This house will be more glorious than its predecessor, says the Lord of heavenly forces. I will provide prosperity in this place, says the Lord of heavenly forces.

Haggai 2:6-9

Think

Yesterday’s Scripture challenged Israel to be strong and work without fear. Today, Haggai explains what God will do. God promises to shake the heavens and earth, the sea and dry land. These opposite pairs include all of creation! Even the heavens are included, so we’re not dealing with a literal earthquake. Instead, Haggai describes how God will “shake up” the nations to provide treasures to rebuild the Lord’s house.

Has God ever “shaken up” your life, transforming your values and priorities? Has the Lord ever given you a fresh passion for some aspect of Christ’s mission? We know God has captured our attention when we change how we spend our “treasure,” whether money, time, energy, or relationships.

The good news is that God’s quaking extends to all nations! Everyone gets to contribute to the splendor of God’s dwelling, and today this dwelling is among God’s people, the church. When this happens, God promises prosperity. This word goes far beyond material wealth; it means “shalom,” the peace and fullness of life with God and one another.

Joshua Hays

Pray

God, thank you that your call continues to go out to men and women of all nations to join your people and your work in the world. I invite you to shake up my own life. Create in me a passion to use my gifts, talents, and treasures to bring your life and hope to the world. Amen.

Go

Go now,

looking back on what the Lord has done for you,

looking ahead in faith to what the Lord has promised,

looking around you for those in need of hope and love.