2/3/21 Day 12

TODAY'S VERSE: 2/3/21 Day 12

Who may climb the mountain of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place?

Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies. They will receive the LORD’s blessing and have a right relationship with God their savior. Such people may seek you and worship in your presence, O God of Jacob.

Psalm 24:3-6

TODAY'S DEVOTION:

Will you ascend, or climb, the mountain of the Lord today?

In biblical times people physically walked uphill into Jerusalem to worship at the temple. More importantly, they ascended into the presence of God. Their time of inclination presented each person with two opportunities 1) a time of introspection/confession of their own (un)worthiness to enter God’s presence, 2) a time of recognition/request of God’s great mercy, holiness, and righteousness.

The Psalm tells us that only those with clean hands and pure hearts may enter God’s presence. The requirement doesn’t leave any wiggle room. However, God promises that all who incline their hands and hearts to the Lord receive his holiness and are free to enter his presence.

In this season of Lent we take on the daily practice of examining our hands and hearts as we ascend the holy hill of the Lord. Look at your hands and your heart. Ask God to trade your ashes for beauty.

Take another step into the presence of God

Fold your hands over your heart and ask God to wash you with his great mercy and grace.

Take another step into the presence of God.

Embrace and believe God’s promise of his gift of righteousness in your life. Receive it.

Ascend into his holy presence - today.

Pastor Eric Voelker



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