Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“The Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward heaven so that hail may fall on the whole land of Egypt, on humans and animals and all the plants of the field in the land of Egypt.””
NL Daily Devotion for Thursday, October 5, 2023
by Daniel D. Maurer, Clergy Stuff
Main Idea: The Inevitability of Divine Justice in the Face of Persistent Injustice
More plagues! Plagues of hail, locusts, and darkness! Understand though that each plague serves as a divine intervention against the oppressive regime of Pharaoh. Despite the increasing calamities, Pharaoh's heart remains hardened, leading to further suffering for both the Egyptians and the Israelites.
The plagues are not merely acts of divine retribution but are manifestations of divine justice. They serve as a call to Pharaoh and his administration to cease their oppressive actions and set the Israelites free. Yet, the more God intervenes, the more Pharaoh resists, showcasing the depths of human obstinacy in the face of divine justice.
Isn’t it true that we often encounter situations where justice seems delayed or denied? Whether it's the struggle for racial equality, gender justice, or environmental sustainability, the path is often fraught with obstacles. However, this passage reminds us that divine justice is inevitable. While human systems may fail us, God's justice will not.
This story also serves as a beacon of hope. Despite the bleak circumstances and Pharaoh's stubbornness, God's plan for justice and liberation remains steadfast. It's a powerful reminder that even when we face seemingly insurmountable challenges, God's justice is working behind the scenes, urging us toward a more equitable and compassionate world.
![Jonah 1:1-17; 3:1-10 [4:1-11], Jonah and God’s Mercy](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/56b39b61ab48de92d991a40a/6bbb490e-4992-4659-a8be-02d8397d68af/24-11-10.jpg)