January 2- Out of Egypt

Genesis 3:1-4:26
Matthew 2:13-3:6
Psalm 2:1-12
Proverbs 1:7-9

Reading Matthew 2 this week reminded me of the challenge and blessing that comes from being dependent on God. As missionaries, I always remembered the fear of whether or not financial support would arrive and how those funds would come. In the end, we were always provided for and God gave us exactly what we needed (and many times what we wanted too). I can recall being hit with high electric bills, having major automotive issues, and watching as passport and visa issues threatened to hit Jessica and I in the pocket book. However, in every case, God provided. It actually began to become a game for us. When a need arrived, we would just wait and see how God took care of that need (sometimes still stressed, but with the knowledge that he would not leave us in these hard times). In Matthew 2 when Jesus' parents are gifted gold, incense, and myrrh, I assume it caught them off guard. We know they were not wealthy, we know they were young, and we know that their worlds had been turned upside down. Little did they know at the time that they were just a couple of verses away from taking a costly trip to Egypt! On the run, with new child, and no resources, I assume those gifts came in quite handy. Does God provide? You better believe he does! For those in need who turn towards him, they too enjoy the miracle of watching his provision that is offered, as well as the challenge of living with trust in that provision.