Daniel 12:1-3 (NRSV)
Read Daniel 12:1-3 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 12"At that time Michael, the great prince, the protector of your people, shall arise. There shall be a time of anguish, such as has never occurred since nations first came into existence. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book. Verse 2Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. Verse 3Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.
Devotion
This past summer was one of continuing anguish in Israel and Lebanon, in Iraq, Darfur and numerous other places in the world. It is but another period in the ongoing human history of war and rumors of wars, and anguish and great devastation. Whether you listen to the daily newscast or read the apocalyptic literature of the Bible, there is much that gives pause. There is worse to come. At some point we may be overwhelmed by the horrors of this world.
Yet we have this assurance. Those written in the book of life, those who lead others to righteousness, those who are wise, God’s people, will enjoy everlasting life. We know that nothing in the world can destroy us. We have nothing to fear. As Luther suggested, even if we know the end will come tomorrow, our focus remains on doing the Lord’s work, planting seeds. This is our calling.
Prayer
Lord God, it is so easy for us to be overwhelmed, filled with fear in the face of the enemies we face in this world. Give us courage in the knowledge of our future with you. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.