[This is one in a series of devotional reflections prepared for Horley Baptist Church during February 2023]
What’s so great about Feb 28?
In some parts of the northern hemisphere it is the last day of winter, tomorrow will herald the official start of Spring, a reason for celebration. In the southern hemisphere the opposite applies; it is time to anticipate the rich colours of autumn and the blessings of the harvest.
For those who are paid on a monthly basis, 28th February might be a day to look forward to (although next year you will have to wait an extra day). On the other hand, if your birthday falls on 29th February then this is yet another year when that event will not receive the recognition it deserves. Some people will recall 28th February as their spiritual birthday, the day on which they accepted God’s offer of salvation. For them this date is one to remember and celebrate but we do not have to wait for a specific date or ecclesiastical season to get right with God.
Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
2 Corinthians 6 v2 [NKJV]
That opportunity is still open today but it will not remain open indefinitely. Procrastination can have disastrous consequences.
Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion.
Hebrews 3 v15 [NIVUK]
What rebellion? This verse is a quotation from Psalm 95 v8 which itself reminds us of the way in which the children of Israel rebelled against Moses due to the lack of water in the desert. Moses lost his temper with the people and his attitude displeased God. God provided for the people’s needs but Moses and Aaron were excluded from entering the Promised Land personally.[1]
Are we ever tempted to obey God in the letter but fail to honour in him in spirit?
One great thing about today is that it is another day in which we can read the Bible, pray and listen to God. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews warned us about neglecting our salvation;[2] neglect implies that we are not treating things that we already have with sufficient respect. The season for new year’s resolutions is long gone (as have many of the resolutions themselves) but it is still open season for developing a closer relationship with God.
Just a closer walk with Thee, Grant it, Jesus, this my plea,
Daily walking close to Thee, Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
(Anon)
In terms of your spiritual life, today could be a date to remember.
Resources:
[1] Numbers 20 v10, 24
[2] Hebrews 2 v3
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Last week’s reflection: Stirred, not shaken
Contributed by Steve Humphreys; © the Author
Thank you Steve for today’s reflection and a reminder that we should follow Jesus daily and aim for a closer walk with Him. We do not know what each day may hold for us.