Jotham's Journey Day 17

In tonight's reading, we encounter a powerful lesson about the difference between seeking approval from others and resting in God's unconditional love. As Jotham shares his incredible journey with Ishtar, we witness a young boy who has truly lived through extraordinary circumstances—yet when accused of fabricating stories to impress, he responds with remarkable humility. This moment reveals something profound about human nature: we often feel compelled to build ourselves up in the eyes of others, creating what Ishtar's culture calls 'Pazdadan'—the building of a false image. But the deeper truth emerges when we realize that God's love for us isn't based on our adventures, accomplishments, or ability to impress anyone. Romans 5:8 anchors this message beautifully, reminding us that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. We didn't have to earn it, prove ourselves worthy, or craft an impressive resume. As we move through these ordinary Tuesdays and approach Christmas, we're invited to quiet the voices demanding we prove our worth and instead listen to the gentle whisper of God saying, 'I love you.' This is the freedom that comes with knowing we are already accepted, already valued, already home in the heart of God.