YouVersion Reformation Reading Plan, day 225

Matthew 26:1-35 §

What does it mean for Jesus to say, “For you will always have the poor with you, but you will not always have me.” (verse 11)? Is this as simple as His body dying, rising, and being taken up? Is He trying to tell us something about the poor, or about Himself, or both? I wonder about the way we see tithes and offerings used in the New Testament: the general rule seems to be that these are for the poor. Did the disciples think back to this episode when they decided how to use material gifts?

It is strange to me that Matthew names neither the woman who poured perfume on Jesus (verse 7), nor the man at whose house Jesus ate the Passover (verse 18). After reading the repeated namings of all the important men of Israel, of David’s mighty men, of kings and their sons, this sticks out a lot. Matthew even notes Jesus’ words that “what she has done will also be told in memory of her,” yet he gives her no name. This may be symbolic of the idea that the Jews needed their names (and their genealogies) to be part of God’s people, yet this woman (and the man who hosted the Last Supper) needed only their obedience.

“He who has dipped his hand in the dish with me will betray me.” (verse 23) Who among us has not?

I Chronicles 17 §

Here is Christ (verse 11-14). David’s response is so human. Do this for me, O LORD, and your name will be glorified. Save my chosen people, and you will be magnified. In the end, though, he gets it: “It is you, O LORD, who have blessed…” (verse 27)

I Chronicles 18 §

God gives victory.

I Chronicles 19 §

Insulting God and provoking His wrath is not a good idea.

I Chronicles 20 §

King David’s crown probably weighed about 30kg (67lbs).

David’s family becomes one of giant-killers.