DAILY?READINGS: Gen. 39; Psalm 17; Matt. 22:15-46
The Lord…is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9
Our Lord’s patience was at its best when provocation was at its worst. He was tested beyond measure, yet Isaiah foretold that He would not open His mouth, but remain dumb before his shearers. Betrayed with a kiss. Struck in the face by a servant. Reviled by the High Priests. Humiliated and tortured by Roman soldiers. He bore it all. In excruciating pain as they hammered Him to the cross, He lifted His heart in a prayer of love “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34). We do well to echo Thomas’ words: “My Lord and My God” (John 20:28). —Drew Craig
O patient and spotless One! Our hearts in meekness train,
To bear Thy yoke and learn of Thee, that we may rest obtain.
—C. Bernstein