Daily Lectionary: Daniel 1:1-21; St. Matthew 28:1-20
As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. (Daniel 1:17)
In the name of Jesus. Amen. Earlier this week we witnessed one of the visions of Daniel. Today we rewind to the beginning of his book where he recounts for us his early days in Babylon, along with Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (AKA Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego).
As they were young, attractive and full of potential, King Nebuchadnezzar planned to “educate” them in the way of the Chaldeans to make them productive members of society. Sounds like a deal—three years of tuition-free education! They were even offered the deluxe meal plan—food from the king’s table.
Their education wasn’t the problem. The meal plan was at issue since it included certain foods which were unclean and other meat which would not have been prepared according to their dietary restrictions in the Law of Moses. What were they to do? They could forsake God’s Law and blend in or they could be a light to the Gentiles.
The Israelites suffered the judgment of exile because of their idolatry and their desire to blend in with the nations. Countless times the prophets warned them to remain faithful to the God who was their very salvation. Daniel and the three other men knew this well. You and I know how easy it is to blend in with the culture, rather than confess Christ. It’s not easy, but your Savior promises to be with you.
In today’s Gospel from St. Matthew, even the disciples who were with the risen Jesus for days, still doubted. They, too, were tempted to turn away. Yet the Lord Jesus forgave them and sent them forth to make disciples of all nations by baptizing and teaching. You have been baptized and gifted in the Lord’s teaching. You have food from the King’s Table, the deluxe meal plan of His body and blood. He is with you as you go forth confessing Him in the world. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Lo, the hosts of evil round us Scorn the Christ, assail His ways! From the fears that long have bound us Free our hearts to faith and praise. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage For the living of these days, For the living of these days. (LSB 850:2)