Daily Topic for August 15, 2008
Have you ever reflected on this mysterious admonition? What does Peter mean when he says we should speed (or hasten) that day? Is Peter possibly referring to Jesus’ statement that “this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations” before the end will come (Matthew 24:14)? If so, then consider the glorious possibility: by committing our lives to bringing the gospel to those people groups still without a believing fellowship in their midst, we are helping to speed the return of Jesus Christ.
Dear Lord, “Thy kingdom come.” Give strength to our hands as we seek to hasten the day of Your appearing.
“Who am I? My name is unimportant. My greatest achievement is that I have honored my husband with three strong, healthy sons. We live in Punjab, India. In the early 19th century my ancestors were traders and businessmen, with nearly a monopoly on the sale of cloth and woven goods. Later they expanded into sales of eyeglasses, flour-grinding mills, and became known as excellent painters and skilled tailors. During the British rule of our country, many of my people became civil servants. Today, many of us are teachers, administrators and other professionals. Education is very important to us.”
“My people are the Khatri caste, and we are largely unknown outside India. But within India, we are considered one of the most advanced and progressive communities in the country. Though most of us are Hindu, my family is Muslim. My family and I pray five times each day, give to the poor and believe there is no god but Allah, and Mohammed is his prophet. I have heard of the great teacher you worship, Jesus. But he is not a god; Allah is the one true God.”
On this day, Aug. 15th, that all of India celebrates its independence, pray that the people of the Khatri caste will soon be independent from the shackles they were never meant to wear.
Learn more at joshuaproject.netPray that God would send them messengers bringing the good news of forgiveness and salvation through Jesus.-JWS