TODAY'S BIBLE READING

OLD TESTAMENT I
Numbers 29
Numbers 29 is primarily concerned with outlining the offerings and sacrifices that were to be made during the various festivals and holy days throughout the year. It begins by describing the offerings that were to be made on the first day of the seventh month, which was the Feast of Trumpets. This was to be a day of rest and worship, marked by the blowing of trumpets and the offering of various sacrifices.

The chapter then goes on to describe the offerings that were to be made on the tenth day of the seventh month, which was the Day of Atonement. On this day, the high priest was to enter the Holy of Holies and offer sacrifices for the sins of the people. This was a solemn and sacred day, marked by fasting and repentance.

Next, the chapter outlines the offerings that were to be made during the seven-day Feast of Tabernacles, which began on the fifteenth day of the seventh month. This was a joyful festival that celebrated the harvest and God's provision for His people. During this time, various sacrifices were offered, and the people lived in temporary booths or shelters as a reminder of their time in the wilderness.

Finally, the chapter concludes with a summary of all the offerings that were to be made throughout the year, including those for the daily sacrifices, the Sabbath, and the other feasts and holy days. These offerings were a way for the people to honor God and seek His forgiveness and blessings, and they served as a reminder of their covenant with Him.

OLD TESTAMENT II
Proverbs 25:1 - 26:12
Proverbs 25:1-26:12 contains a collection of wise sayings and proverbs that provide practical advice for living wisely and well. The passage begins by emphasizing the importance of seeking wisdom and avoiding pride. It then goes on to discuss the benefits of humility and self-control, warning against laziness, gossip, and other destructive behaviors. The section also includes several proverbs about the dangers of anger and quarrelsomeness, and advises readers to seek peace and reconciliation with others. Finally, the passage ends with a warning about the dangers of deception and flattery, and encourages readers to cultivate honesty and integrity in all their relationships. Overall, the message of this passage is that wisdom, humility, and self-control are essential virtues for living a fulfilling and meaningful life.


NEW TESTAMENT
Luke 2:22-52
In Luke 2:22-52, we see the events that take place when Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple to be presented to the Lord. The law required that all firstborn males be dedicated to God, and so Mary and Joseph fulfill this requirement.

While in the temple, they meet Simeon and Anna, two elderly individuals who have been waiting for the arrival of the Messiah. Simeon takes Jesus into his arms and praises God for fulfilling his promise to see the Messiah before his death. Anna also recognizes Jesus as the long-awaited Savior and tells others about him.

After their visit to the temple, Mary and Joseph return to Nazareth, where Jesus grows and becomes wise beyond his years. At the age of twelve, they travel to Jerusalem for the Passover, but on their return journey, they realize Jesus is missing. After searching for three days, they find him in the temple, listening and asking questions of the religious leaders.

Jesus tells his parents that he must be about his Father's business, showing his understanding of his divine mission. Mary and Joseph return home, and Jesus continues to grow in wisdom and favor with God and man.

This passage reminds us of the importance of dedicating ourselves and our children to God and seeking out his purpose for our lives. It also shows us that Jesus was fully aware of his divine mission from a young age and was preparing himself for the work he was sent to do.