Devotion:
The title given for Joshua 24 in The Message Translation is “The Covenant at Shechem”. The tribes of Israel have been in the Promised Land for a while. The people have begun adapting to their surroundings and conforming to the ways of the people around them. Joshua reminds the people of Israel of all that God has done for them. Joshua is calling the people to a decision in verses 14-15, “Choose this day whom you will serve...but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
Joshua lives out this covenant relationship with God throughout his lifetime right up until the day he died (verse 31). He lived in service unto the Lord all the days of his life.
I heard a preacher say, “To choose to serve God is a choice we make every day!” To choose to serve God every day is also remembering all God has done for us along life’s journey.
The beautiful part of this lifetime journey of faith is that growth is possible at every age. As we acknowledge God’s love and faithfulness unto us, we in turn grow in our love and faithfulness unto God. And as our love for God grows, God’s love leads us to love others more than we love ourselves. This creates the covenantal community of people called to help others along their life’s journey.
I give God thanks for individuals I have known who have served the Lord throughout their lifetime. There is one who comes to mind. In his late retirement years, he walked with purpose, with his head in front of his feet, with blueprints for a Habitat House under his arm, and a pencil behind his ear. It was 30 degrees outside. He was on a mission to build his fiftieth house for a new family! His testimony was profound. He was grateful for the love he had received growing up in an Orphan’s home and wanted to give God thanksgiving for taking care of him by building homes for others.
Personal Worship Option:
Let us hear Joshua’s call again. “Choose today whom you will serve.” Help me O Lord, to always be growing in faith and service all the days of my life. Amen.
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