February 24, 2026 WEST

Today's reading takes us through a powerful journey from Jeremiah's prophetic message to the crucifixion of Christ, reminding us that God's sovereignty extends over all nations and circumstances. In Jeremiah 27, we encounter an uncomfortable truth: sometimes submission to difficult circumstances is actually God's path to preservation. The prophet instructs leaders to submit to Babylon, not as defeat, but as divine strategy. This challenges our instinct to fight every battle, teaching us that we're called to be in the world but not of it—affecting our environment while remaining kingdom people. The reading culminates in Matthew 27 with the crucifixion, where we witness the ultimate act of submission as Jesus endures unimaginable suffering. The tearing of the temple veil from top to bottom signifies God's initiative in removing every barrier between Himself and humanity. What's striking is how the Roman centurion—an outsider to faith—becomes the first to confess Jesus as the Son of God after His death, reminding us that God reveals Himself in unexpected places to unexpected people. The message challenges us to examine where we're seeking direction: are we turning to media, fortune tellers of our day, or are we seeking God Himself? True kingdom living means hearing differently, acting differently, and being salt and light in a world that desperately needs the authentic gospel.