January 27 - Epiphany

Zechariah 4:1-5:11 - Lampstands, scrolls, women with wings. We're more likely familiar with such visuals from the book of Revelation. If you're having a hard time understanding what's going on you're not alone. When prophet's have visions the symbols that have obvious meaning to them can be a little cryptic to us. Even Zechariah needs some explaining with some of these visions. For example, the lampstands shed light and reflect the glory of God, encouraging the people to finish rebuilding the Temple. The olive trees stand for priestly and royal offices, and also for a steady supply of oil to the lampstands. These visuals are a reminder to the people that God has resourced them for the task He has called them to. What symbols do we have as Christians, that might need some explaining for the uninitiated and even for us?

Romans 15:14-33 - Is Paul allowed to be proud? Are we? Pride can be a sticky thing because it rarely shows up without puffing up. Pride for ourselves and our accomplishments focuses all the attention on us, often to the detriment of others. Is Paul's pride different? If so, how?