Apologies for not sending a weekly prompt last week! It quickly made me realize that this will require a shift in my weekly rhythms—and some adjustments on my part. But I’m committed to keeping at it. I also need to make sure the readings for March are ready!

I hope you’ve found some of the riches in Leviticus over the past couple of weeks. This week, we return to the action in Numbers, and we’re also diving into the fast-paced Gospel of Mark. Keep going—you’re doing great!

Week 4: 19 – 25 February

OT – Leviticus 23–Numbers 7

Leviticus is about holiness, being separated, set apart, pure. The Sabbath is a day set apart, a holy day. It is a day of rest and points to the fact that our salvation is based on God’s work, not ours. It is also a day of worship, as are all the Festivals that are recounted. They are a means of remembering what God has done for them on their pilgrimage. The Year of Jubilee and the whole idea of redemption, of being set free through the paying of a price, points to our salvation. Jesus pays the price to set us free. Leviticus ends with a reminder of the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience. Numbers begin with the numbering and organizing of the camp. Again the priority of holiness is emphasized as only the Levites, the tribe set apart for God, can handle the things of the Tabernacle. There are more laws regarding cleanliness and personal morality. The Nazirite vow also underscores the idea of being set apart for God. Worship is primary as each tribal leader brings the gifts to the altar.

Feb. 19: Lev 23-24; Feb. 20: Lev 25-26; Feb. 21: Lev 27; Num 1; Feb. 22: Num 2-3; Feb. 23: Num 4; Feb. 24: Num 5-6; Feb. 25: Num 7

There is a book background to Numbers here.

NT: Mark 2:1–5:43

Jesus continues to upset religious leaders, by claiming to forgive sins, associating with sinners, failing to fast, and by healing on the Sabbath. They therefore plot to kill him. Jesus indicates a new order is emerging through him that will replace the old covenant that these religious leaders think they represent. It is indicated by his parable of the new wine and new cloth. The beginning of the new covenant people is represented by the choosing of twelve apostles (as there had been twelve tribes in the old covenant people) and by dealing with Satan – the tying up of the strong man. The mysteries of this new order, the Kingdom of God, are gradually being revealed to the disciples through parables but not everyone will understand. The parables about seeds point to life and power of the Kingdom, and its growth from seeming insignificance. Jesus shows the power of his new order by his authority over the wind and waves, and over demons.

Feb 19: Mark 2; Feb 20: Mark 3:1-19; Feb 21: Mark 3:20-4:9; Feb 22: Mark 4:10-20; Feb 23: Mark 4:21-41; Feb 24: Mark 5:1-20; Feb 25: Mark 5:21-43

Please note that the readings for the last few dates in February will be included in the March Readings.

If you are enjoying the Bible Tour, why not have a look at other features of the Different Kingdom website – including this recent article on Signs of a Christian Revival in the West?