Today’s scripture: Daniel 3:19-30 (NRSV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me in this passage? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Julie Benson):
So here it is: Three guys unwilling to conform to principles not in alignment with God’s commandments get a king pretty fired up. Their disobedience wins them a room in a fiery furnace that is so hot that it kills the delegates who throw them in. This method of punishment is not unfamiliar, so King Nebuchadnezzar’s distorted expression changes to a Cheshire grin as he turns expecting to see ashes where bones once stood.
But to everyone’s amazement, there are four figures up and walking in the fire. The king immediately calls them out, blesses their God, and decrees that all people shall accept this God whom he has newly accepted.
God delivered Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego not from the furnace, but in the furnace. In doing so, a miracle was witnessed by, among others, a polytheistic king.
God does not withhold the evidence of miracles from unbelievers. Christians do not belong to some elitist group, sitting in front row seats watching God’s great powers unfurled. God chooses to work in unforeseen circumstances with unsuspecting people.
Thought for the day: Expect the unexpected!
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.