In Malachi, we see people trapped in religious routines, forgetting the very God they’re meant to adore. Their sacrifices are mere leftovers, their worship is a chore, and their hearts are indifferent. When God declared, “I have loved you,” they cynically replied, “How have you loved us?” This startling exchange should unsettle us. But before we criticize their callousness, we must ask: Is our worship vibrant and transformational, or just a lifeless checkbox on a religious to-do list? Beware, because spiritual apathy creeps in quietly! If you’re just going through the motions, ask God to rekindle your love and restore a genuine heart of worship. It’s not about rituals—it’s about a relationship that ignites awe for the One who first loved us.
How Christmas Changes Your Past
Matthew begins his gospel by listing the genealogy of Jesus, and he includes people in that list who did some very evil things. Why would Matthew want to highlight the dirt instead of sweeping it under the rug? Because he wanted us to know that the forgiveness Christ came to bring is available to everyone, regardless of their past. Have you ever brought your past to Jesus, or are you still carrying it all by yourself?
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