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Friday, December 10, 2010

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Isaiah 48:17-19
Psalm 1:1-4, 6
Matthew 11:16-19

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it's just vindication

"If you would hearken to My commandments...your vindication [would be] like the waves of the sea." —Isaiah 48:18

Jesus is coming soon, and He plans to set things right for "the just" (Ps 1:6), for those who put their trust in Him. We Christians take up our daily cross (Lk 9:23) and give up many things the world embraces. This makes us look foolish in the eyes of the world. We who are just need to be vindicated, proven right to those who denounce us.

When Jesus comes, heaven will announce to us: "Here is your God, He comes with vindication" (Is 35:4; see also Is 63:1). Jesus comes to bring "a day of vindication by our God" (Is 61:2). God can't rest until He has vindicated us, His servants (Is 62:1). God's vindication is more far-reaching than our greatest hopes (Is 62:2); it will be as bright as the noonday sun (Ps 37:6).

While we wait for His coming and His vindication, we must endure the complaints and insults of those who are never satisfied with us (see Mt 11:16ff). We will endure this cross by fixing our eyes on Jesus (Heb 12:2). With eyes of faith, we confess with Job: "I know that my Vindicator lives" (Jb 19:25, NAB). Come, Lord Jesus! (Rv 22:20)

Prayer:  Father, may my life bring You much honor and glory in the sight of all (Mt 5:16).

Promise:  "Time will prove where wisdom lies." —Mt 11:19

Praise:  Gazing on an image of the Sacred Heart helps Lila stay open after being hurt by others.

Reference:  (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
(During this time of preparation for the coming Christmas season, make a commitment to renew your faith. Plan to come away some time this next year and be renewed in your faith. The Paul Jansen Discipleship Center near Peebles, Ohio is a blessing to all who visit. Join in prayer and fellowship with the community, make a silent retreat, or come and offer your time and talents in this holy setting. Call 937-587-5464 or 513-373-2397 for information.)

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 28, 2010

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