The statue of King David with his harp stands across a passage way from the City of David in Jerusalem. Although God loves all people, the Jews are His chosen people. The root of the Hebrew word for Jew is praise, thanksgiving and worship. King David personified these in His writing of many of the Psalms. “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!” (Psalm 34:1-3).
So why have the Jews been so hated? They were enslaved in Egypt, destroyed by the Romans, nearly annihilated by Hitler, scattered over the whole world, run out of Brittain and Spain. The elite Jews, the Pharisees, hated Jesus–the King of the Jews, and finally crucified Him. Yet, He rose from the grave and is alive today through the person of the Holy Spirit, who comforts and counsels us.
THINK ABOUT IT
Jews have excelled in science, music, entertainment and sports. Accomplishments and awards last only a little while. Even in as short a time as five years, few people remember the names of Olympic gold medalists, Emmy or Grammy award winners. Yet, all we do for God’s kingdom will last forever. What do you think the difference is? 1 Corinthians 16:14 says, “Do everything in love,” and 1 Corinthians 10:31 says, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” What we do or say impacts the people around us, and if we do it in love, it brings glory to God. Lives are changed for the kingdom.
PRAY ABOUT IT
Thank you, Father, for making a way for us to be in the family of God. Help us to always be mindful that our gifts and callings are from you. Help us to use our talents and abilities in ways that honor You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tell Me the Story 