March 23, 2017 Thursday of the 3rd Week of Lent-A

Jeremiah 7:23-28

Psalm 95

Luke 11:14-23

Walk in all the ways that I command you, so that you may prosper.  Jeremiah 7:23

“…the kingdom of God has come upon you.”  Luke 11:20

Lord, every year in January the President of the United States describes the State of the Union to Congress and the American people.  In this speech he tells how we are doing as a nation.  Lent is a good time for me to assess how I’m doing as a member of your kingdom.  In Jeremiah, I read how the people had become disobedient and hard of heart.  They no longer listened to the voice of God but insisted on doing their own thing.  Your word tells me clearly the way to prosperity and happiness: walk in your ways and live the good news of your kingdom.  Lord, my prayer today is for a good examination of how devoted I am to you.  Help me, Lord, to see how your grace is working in my life and how I am resisting that grace.  Forgive me for allowing my spirit to become divided and not listen to your voice.  Thank you, Jesus, for calling me into your kingdom.  I am yours.  Speak to me, Lord, your servant is listening.  Amen.