famished
"My soul is consumed with longing for Your ordinances at all times." —Psalm 119:20
In our selfishness and injustice, we are setting ourselves up for a famine for hearing the Word of the Lord (Am 8:11). When we sin, we contribute to a society which closes its ears and hearts to God's Word. In many corporations, God's Word is not welcome and not tolerated. For Christians such as myself who work in such situations of a famine for God's Word in the workplace, we long for His Word. During our time at work, we say: "I long for Your precepts…hide not Your commands from me" (Ps 119:40, 19). "I gasp with open mouth in my yearning for Your commands" (Ps 119:131). A famine for hearing God's Word results in widespread spiritual anorexia, loss of vision, and demoralized, even perishing people (Prv 29:18).
The Word of God, especially the prophetic word, brings life in place of dead bones (Ez 37:4ff). It brings light, strength, nourishment, vision, wisdom, courage, and victory. It also brings persecution to those who spread it.
Jesus sees His hungry people and commands His disciples: "Feed My sheep" (see Jn 21:15-17). Will you spread the Word of the Lord and help stop the famine?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, not on bread alone are we to live but on every word that proceeds from Your mouth (Mt 4:4). Help us do our part in spreading Your Word and stopping the famine.
Promise: "It is mercy I desire and not sacrifice." —Mt 9:13
Praise: St. Junipero worked to save souls in Spain, Mexico and California. He baptized over six thousand American Indians during his ministry.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, January 20, 2016
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