Daily Devotional
His Voice and Our Work
The same Lord who speaks with thunder in the psalm is not absent in Egypt’s brick-kilns or in the synagogue where hard hearts watch for an accusation. His voice breaks cedars, yet it also commands a man, “Stretch out your hand,” and exposes those who would rather guard their rule than do good. Therefore fear God rightly: not with Pharaoh’s cruelty, nor with the scribes’ malice, but with worship joined to obedience.
Israel was multiplied under oppression. As Cyprian says, “And the more they afflicted them, so much the more they became greater, and grew stronger.” The enemies of God thought harsh labor would diminish the people of God, but the Lord made their affliction serve His purpose. So also in the Gospel: Christ is opposed by kin who misunderstand Him, by demons who fear Him, and by teachers whose house is already divided. Yet none of this hinders His work. He heals, He appoints, He gathers, He names those who will be with Him and be sent.
What then is fitting for us? Not admiration only, but steadfast practice. If the Lord’s voice is powerful, then let us not answer Him with lazy hands or a sharpened tongue. If He asks whether it is lawful to do good, let us be found doing good at cost to ourselves. If His house must not be divided, let us put away grudges, accusations, and party spirit. And if His glory fills all, then, as the ancient liturgy says, “we ought at all times to bless, adore, and glorify, O Lord of all.”
“saying: And the more they afflicted them, so much the more they became greater, and grew stronger. Exodus 1:12”
— Cyprian, Treatises
“we ought at all times to bless, adore, and glorify, O Lord of all.”
— Early Liturgies, Liturgy of Adaeus and Maris
For Reflection & Discussion
What hard good work have you delayed; will you do it today for someone in need, even if it costs you rest, money, or reputation?
Whom have you accused, resented, or spoken against; will you seek peace by confessing your fault, stopping your tongue, and making one concrete act of reconciliation?
At what set times today will you stop and bless the Lord of all, and what gift or service will you offer to the poor, the sick, or a burdened neighbor in His name?
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