What Is God Saying to Us Today?

Daily Office Readings – Friday, July 17, 2026

Readings: Psalm 31; 1 Samuel 21:1–15; Acts 13:13–25; Mark 3:7–19a

The psalmist describes God with words that reveal His very nature: truth, mercy, loving-kindness, goodness, and steadfast love. He also proclaims, “You have redeemed me, O Lord, God of truth.” (Psalm 31:5)

Whenever I read those words, I find myself thinking of God as Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer.

God is the Creator. In Genesis, God spoke light into existence, separated the waters from the land, filled the earth with plants and living creatures, and finally breathed the breath of life into humanity. All creation bears witness to the goodness and love of its Creator.

God is also the Redeemer. From the beginning, God’s purpose has been to restore what sin, fear, and brokenness have damaged. Even when David fled from Saul and sought refuge among strangers, God continued to preserve his life. David’s story was larger than his present danger. Through him, God was preparing the lineage from which the Messiah would one day come.

In Acts, Paul and Barnabas continued that story of redemption. Arriving in Pisidian Antioch, Paul proclaimed the history of God’s faithfulness—from the Exodus to King David—and then declared that God had fulfilled His promise by sending Jesus, the Savior. The God who called Abraham, delivered Israel, and established David’s kingdom had now acted decisively in Christ.

Mark’s Gospel shows the Redeemer in action. Crowds gathered around Jesus from every direction. They came seeking healing, hope, and freedom. Jesus appointed the Twelve to be with Him and to share His mission. God’s work of redemption would continue through ordinary people empowered by the Holy Spirit.

As I reflect on these readings, I see God’s plan unfolding across the centuries.

The Creator brings life into existence.

The Redeemer restores what has been broken.

The Sustainer remains faithful through every generation, preserving His people and accomplishing His purposes despite opposition, failure, and suffering.

The same God who protected David, called the apostles, and empowered the early Church is still at work today. His love has not diminished. His mercy has not run out. His truth has not changed. His Spirit continues to call people to participate in His work of healing and reconciliation.

Perhaps today’s readings invite us to ask: Where do I see the Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer at work in my own life?

When I look back over my journey, I can see God’s fingerprints everywhere—even in moments when I could not recognize them at the time. God was creating, redeeming, and sustaining me long before I understood what He was doing.

That same God is still writing our stories today.

Prayer

Creator God, thank You for the gift of life. Redeemer, thank You for Your grace that restores what has been broken. Sustainer, thank You for Your faithful presence through every season of life. Help me trust Your unfolding plan and become a willing participant in Your work of bringing hope, healing, and love into the world. Amen.