Reading
In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lofty; and the hem of his robe filled the temple. Seraphs were in attendance above him; each had six wings: with two they covered their faces, and with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.” The pivots on the thresholds shook at the voices of those who called, and the house filled with smoke. And I said: “Woe is me! I am lost, for I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; yet my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!” Then one of the seraphs flew to me, holding a live coal that had been taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. The seraph touched my mouth with it and said: “Now that this has touched your lips, your guilt has departed and your sin is blotted out.” Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!” And he said, “Go and say to this people: ‘Keep listening, but do not comprehend; keep looking, but do not understand.’ Make the mind of this people dull, and stop their ears, and shut their eyes, so that they may not look with their eyes, and listen with their ears, and comprehend with their minds, and turn and be healed.” Then I said, “How long, O Lord?” And he said: “Until cities lie waste without inhabitant, and houses without people, and the land is utterly desolate; until the Lord sends everyone far away, and vast is the emptiness in the midst of the land. Even if a tenth part remain in it, it will be burned again, like a terebinth or an oak whose stump remains standing when it is felled.” The holy seed is its stump. [Isaiah 6: 1-8 (9-13)] Reflection Go and say. That is what God commanded Isaiah to do. Not just go. Not just say. But go and say. It’s one thing to go places. We are on the go all the time. Here and there. Doing this and that. Go, go, go. But what are we saying in the places we go? Or do we just go and expect our message to be known just by our being there. It’s another thing to say things. And we have a lot to say. All those thoughts swirling around our heads that sometimes come out to whoever happens to be around to hear them. But who really needs to hear what we have to say? Maybe someone who is not right there. Maybe someone somewhere else. So go there and say that. Isaiah could have gone where God sent him but if he didn’t say anything, what good would it have done? Or Isaiah could have put together all sorts of important talking points but if he didn’t go anywhere to share them, what good would have that done? Go and say. Where are you going today? Wherever you go, all who you see are children of God. What will you have to say? Whatever you say can be a message of peace, love, hope and so much more. --Ruth Gates Prayer Dear God, send us where we are to go and give us your word to share. Just as Isaiah did long ago, may we take your message to all places at this time. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus.
0 Comments
Today, we look at a Day 1 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “Boundless: God Beyond Measure.”
Reading In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.’”) From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father’s heart, who has made him known. (John 1:1-18) Reflection Each of the Gospel writers introduces Jesus differently. Which do you like best? Without any debate, John is my favorite. Each time I hear it, something new delights and intrigues me. When I last heard it, “grace upon grace” rang clearly and invited me to wonder what God is up to now. So, can you recall a time when you received that perfect gift and thought “nothing can top this?” Just to have it topped later. Sort of like horseshoes-a ringer on top of a ringer. That’s what I think about receiving grace upon grace. How can there be anything more than God’s grace? John says, well out of Jesus’ fullness there’s more--if you think that is something, well you ain’t seen nothin’ yet. And it’s true. Every day it’s true. Sometimes we don’t know it because we don’t pay attention. But when we think about it—it’s true. God’s grace just keeps coming and coming. Your grace keeps coming, Lord. Thanks. Amen. --Jim Bricker Prayer Dear God, Wow! You created a great, big, beautiful universe. And you created us. Teach us to be your partners in care for the earth. Give us abundant life today and always. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Reading
Then he began to say to them, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his mouth. They said, “Is not this Joseph’s son?” He said to them, “Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, ‘Doctor, cure yourself!’ And you will say, ‘Do here also in your hometown the things that we have heard you did at Capernaum.’” And he said, “Truly I tell you, no prophet is accepted in the prophet’s hometown. But the truth is, there were many widows in Israel in the time of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, and there was a severe famine over all the land; yet Elijah was sent to none of them except to a widow at Zarephath in Sidon. There were also many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha, and none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian.” When they heard this, all in the synagogue were filled with rage. They got up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they might hurl him off the cliff. But he passed through the midst of them and went on his way. (Luke 4: 21-30) Reflection One of the longtime staff I worked with at Mount Luther used to say, “Familiarity breeds contempt.” The phrase was often said when we were dealing with fellow workers who know you well and know the buttons to push. Because they are near to the situation, they may not see the bigger picture and be too invested. Jesus faces this in our scripture today. He is not seen as who he really is because he was just seen as Joseph’s kid. But he tells them that scripture is being fulfilled in him. In this season of Epiphany, we look at how Jesus was revealed. This is another case of Jesus, showing those of his time, who he really was. The key was then would they believe that he was more than just the son of Joseph? --Chad Hershberger Prayer Help us to see you for who you are, Jesus. You are the Son of God. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on October 11, 2019.
Reading If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in wrongdoing but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends. But as for prophecies, they will come to an end; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will come to an end. For we know only in part, and we prophesy only in part; but when the complete comes, the partial will come to an end. When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways. For now, we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known. And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love. (I Corinthians 13: 1-13) Reflection I think this passage is used extremely often, usually at weddings. Many of us are familiar with is, but I think it pertains more to our daily lives than to just the bonds of marriage. When we are at camp, perhaps it is easier to live by this passage and be patient with each other, not keeping records of people that have wronged us. We try to be honest, open, and transparent with each other and I think this allows us to love each other with patience and kindness. When not at camp, we may be pushed back into the world where not everyone believes or knows these words like us. Loving others as Christians can be difficult when we are not being reciprocated with the same love. We must remember to not be easily angered by others’ actions, and always be giving the kind of love that we would want to receive. --Kristin Jenkins Prayer May we be patient, kind, and show our love to others. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Reading: In you, O Lord, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame. In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me and save me. Be to me a rock of refuge, a strong fortress, to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the grasp of the unjust and cruel. For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. Upon you I have leaned from my birth; it was you who took me from my mother’s womb. My praise is continually of you. (Psalm 71:1-6)
Reflection: These past 22 months have been a time for us to call on to God for protection and help. This Psalm was one I know I went to a few times. I also encouraged youth to look at the Psalms and then write their own. During the height of everyone being stuck in their houses I did a few lessons about the Psalms with the confirmation class over Zoom. The one was a night session that was supposed to be a lock-in, and we really dug into the laments and Psalms that called to God for help in their times of struggle. Composing Psalms with the youth was a real stress reliever for them. They also got a chance to write Psalms of praise which also was wonderful. Here is a little bit of what I told them before we started. “Taking time to cry out to God and praise God are expressions of faith. They do not need to be perfectly crafted. They should just come from the heart.” Maybe you can take some time to write you own Psalms when you need to relieve some stress or when you want to praise God. --Charlene Rineer Prayer: Loving God, we thank you that you care for us and protect us in times of trouble. Help us come to you when we are stressed. Also help us to remember to praise you and thank you for all you have done for us. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Reading
Now the word of the Lord came to me saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born, I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! Truly I do not know how to speak, for I am only a boy.” But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a boy’; for you shall go to all to whom I send you, and you shall speak whatever I command you, do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.” Then the Lord put out his hand and touched my mouth; and the Lord said to me, “Now I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to pull down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.” (Jeremiah 1: 4-10) Reflection Do you ever find yourself searching for an excuse to get out of something that you don’t really want to do? Not just an excuse to others, but often to your own conscience. I’m always glad to have a conflict when there’s an event, I know that I should attend, but I’m afraid that I’ll be uncomfortable if I do. How many excuses have you come up with for veering from your New Years’ resolution so far this January? I think Jeremiah’s excuse when God calls him is a pretty good one. Who will listen to a boy? But God tells Jeremiah “No excuses.” When God is with us, we should not be afraid. How can you stop making excuses and do something uncomfortable with God’s help? --Erin Hayes Prayer: Awesome God, thank you for creating me and guiding me. Help me to address injustices and do uncomfortable things, trusting that you are with me always. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Today, we look at a Day 1 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “Boundless: God Beyond Measure.”
Reading O Lord, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. Out of the mouths of babes and infants you have founded a bulwark because of your foes, to silence the enemy and the avenger. When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon, and the stars that you have established; what are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them? Yet you have made them a little lower than God and crowned them with glory and honor. You have given them dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under their feet, all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the seas. O Lord, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth! (Psalm 8) Reflection You are probably familiar with the story of creation from Genesis 1. It is the tale of how God created the earth. This passage reminds us about the majesty of creation. Part of our response to God’s goodness is to express our joy and praise. This psalm does that. It is a reflection on how David feels about God’s greatness. How do we express that greatness? How do we show God that we are grateful? --Chad Hershberger Prayer O Lord, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth! Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Reading
Then Jesus, filled with the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and a report about him spread through all the surrounding country. He began to teach in their synagogues and was praised by everyone. When he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, he went to the synagogue on the sabbath day, as was his custom. He stood up to read, and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it was written: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” And he rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. Then he began to say to them, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” (Luke 4:14-21) Reflection In this season of Epiphany, we see Jesus being revealed and starting his ministry. Wouldn’t it have been something to be at church, hear some read the scripture and then be told that he was Jesus. I’m sure people left that day feeling flabbergasted. How do you feel when you leave church? We encounter Christ there, too, in the bread and the wine and the community that is formed. Are you flabbergasted when you leave, or are you refreshed to go share God’s love to others? --Chad Hershberger Prayer Refresh us, Jesus, to do work in your name. Help us to spread your love to all. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Reading: For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and we were all made to drink of one Spirit. Indeed, the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot would say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear would say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the hearing be? If the whole body were hearing, where would the sense of smell be? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many members, yet one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” On the contrary, the members of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and those members of the body that we think less honorable we clothe with greater honor, and our less respectable members are treated with greater respect; whereas our more respectable members do not need this. But God has so arranged the body, giving the greater honor to the inferior member, that there may be no dissension within the body, but the members may have the same care for one another. If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers; then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way. (1 Corinthians 12:12-31a)
Reflection: As I read this Biblical text, I also had to read the portion that was before it. I find it helpful to know what is said before a portion of the scripture to help me understand what they are saying with the main part I am studying. In this case Paul was talking about spiritual gifts before he broached the subject of being one body with many members and that everyone is important and needed. In working in a church this is so true. All God given gifts are needed, and they need to work together. We need the musicians, the teachers, the worship leaders, the preachers, the property people, the ladies who sew and bake, the tech people, the people good with finances, the cleaners, etc. The list goes on and on. Not everyone can do it all and no one should. Look at yourself and see where you are gifted. How are you using those gifts for the church? Can you do more? Are you working with all those around you and sharing the load? Are you respecting what everyone has to offer? --Charlene Rineer Prayer: Gracious God, we thank you for our spiritual gifts. Help us use what you have given us to glorify you, and to do ministry for you. Help us work with each other and respect each other. Make us more aware of what everyone has to offer. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Reading:
To the leader. A Psalm of David. The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy. Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them; and nothing is hidden from its heat. The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the Lord are sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey, and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults. Keep back your servant also from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. (Psalm 19) Reflection: “The heavens are telling the glory of the Lord.” When I read this, I immediately thought of the Bible verse we often read around Palm Sunday about how even the rocks sang out in praise to God. The heavens, the earth, the rocks all praising God is really an interesting image to grab ahold and ponder. We often think of humans praising our Lord, but how cool is it to see/hear/feel creation do the same. My challenge to you this week is to look where you might see “the heavens telling the glory of the Lord.” Where do you see signs of creation bowing down in worship to the creator? How does that inspire you to do the same? --Chad Hershberger Prayer: Creator God, we see your good works. We glorify you as the heavens, the earth, and the rocks do from this land. Help us to spread your love and show our praise every day. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on January 19, 2016.
Reading: All the people gathered together into the square before the Water Gate. They told the scribe Ezra to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the Lord had given to Israel. Accordingly, the priest Ezra brought the law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could hear with understanding. This was on the first day of the seventh month. He read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive to the book of the law. The scribe Ezra stood on a wooden platform that had been made for the purpose; and beside him stood Mattithiah, Shema, Anaiah, Uriah, Hilkiah, and Maaseiah on his right hand; and Pedaiah, Mishael, Malchijah, Hashum, Hash-baddanah, Zechariah, and Meshullam on his left hand. And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was standing above all the people; and when he opened it, all the people stood up. Then Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, “Amen, Amen,” lifting up their hands. Then they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground. Also, Jeshua, Bani, Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodiah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, the Levites, helped the people to understand the law, while the people remained in their places. So, they read from the book, from the law of God, with interpretation. They gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading. And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept when they heard the words of the law. Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions of them to those for whom nothing is prepared, for this day is holy to our Lord; and do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:1-10) Reflection I’ve always liked the book of Nehemiah. It reminds me of the importance of building up one another and not tearing down folks. A valuable lesson, especially as we observe the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this week. In our passage assigned for today, we are reminded of the importance of reading scripture as well. Ezra stood on a platform before the people and read the scriptures to them. In this month of resolutions and new beginnings, taking stock in how much we read God’s Word and participate in regular worship is important, too. In this season of Epiphany, Jesus is revealing himself to us. We can see Jesus in others, like Dr. King. But we can also see Jesus in the Bible and in bread and wine. Where do you see Jesus today? --Chad Hershberger Prayer Help us to see you, Jesus, every day. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Today, we look at a Day 1 text from this year’s summer curriculum, “Boundless: God Beyond Measure.”
Reading In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, the earth was a formless void and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day. Then God said, “Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.” So, God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.” (Genesis 1: 1-5, 26-28) Reflection The book of Genesis begins by talking about how humans and creation came about. In the story from Genesis 1, we learn that all God creates is good, that there is value in being connected to God’s good creation, and our responsibility includes being good caretakers of it. Here are some activities you can do to learn more about our Day 1 curriculum this summer. Bowl: Grab a bowl to gather around. If possible, use a bowl “with a story,” for instance, a childhood bowl with memories of spilling cereal or grandparents’ china. Share good family memories. Activity: Put some outdoor items in the bowl (leaves, flowers) or draw pictures of flowers for the bowl. Connect: Even though this bowl can’t capture the fullness of God’s love, it can celebrate the beauty of some of it. Like flowers, we are good and beautiful creations of God. Celebrate some of the beauty you have seen by having everyone share one way you have seen beauty in creation or in another person. Around the World: Bowls are common across cultures. Give thanks for your bowl, your family stories, the beauty in your bowl, and for the diversity of beauty around the world. Prayer Dear God, Wow! You created a great, big, beautiful universe. And you created us. Teach us to be your partners in care for the earth. Give us abundant life today and always. In Jesus’s name, Amen. Reading
On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine gave out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what concern is that to you and to me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Now standing there were six stone water jars for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus said to them, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. He said to them, “Now draw some out, and take it to the chief steward.” So they took it. When the steward tasted the water that had become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward called the bridegroom and said to him, “Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the inferior wine after the guests have become drunk. But you have kept the good wine until now.” Jesus did this, the first of his signs, in Cana of Galilee, and revealed his glory; and his disciples believed in him. (John 2:1-11) Reflection As I read this passage I think about the people in the story. I try to figure out what they are feeling and going through. Here are my ideas about the different characters.
In the end it says his glory has been revealed and that his disciples believed in him. I often wonder if Jesus did not want that much attention shown to him at that time. It was a wedding celebration after all and shouldn’t the attention be on the bride and groom?? No matter what everyone was going through I believe that the disciples believing in Jesus is a good thing. It would strengthen the reason that they were following Jesus, even though they were often a confused lot. --Charlene Rineer Prayer Gracious God of miracles we thank you for all you do for us. Thank you for showing us your power and love. Help us in times when we are confused and lost. Help us follow you and continue to look for your miracles. In Jesus name, Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Reading
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed. You know that when you were pagans, you were enticed and led astray to idols that could not speak. Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking by the Spirit of God ever says “Let Jesus be cursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses. (1 Corinthians 12: 1-11) Reflection Do you have those friends that you turn to often for advice? Perhaps one who has a talent for interior design. Another knows a lot about plants and gardening. One in the medical field can be really useful. Often one area of expertise seems to be more valuable than another. I’ve been fortunate to be a full-time Mom for the last 11 years. As I contemplate reentering the work force, I evaluate my skills. Experience in cleaning up spills, refereeing sibling squabbles and reading the same book 300 times doesn’t seem to be much of a resume builder. What do I excel at? I guess my friends do turn to me for parenting advice. Paul tells us that all gifts come from God, and all are for the common good. One is not better than another, but all are activated by the Spirit. How can you use your gifts to proclaim Jesus as Lord today? --Erin Hayes Prayer Lord, thank you for the variety of gifts that you give your children. Help me to use my gifts to serve you and others. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on January 14, 2014.
Reading Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your judgments are like the great deep; you save humans and animals alike, O Lord. How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. O continue your steadfast love to those who know you, and your salvation to the upright of heart! (Psalm 36: 5-10) Reflection Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. --Psalm 36: 5 I write this while looking up into a bright, blue sky and looking out to where it meets the shimmering green ocean. There are puffy white clouds above and more sky and clouds beyond that long curve of the horizon. Imagine! God's love and faithfulness go that far. I will come back in the evening and see stars unimaginable miles away in a darkness so deep that goes even further. The horizon will be lost in the distance. I will remember God's love and faithfulness go beyond what we can see! As I am seeing it from this beach chair, God's love and faithfulness is simply everywhere. Look up. Look out. It's there. --Ruth Gates Prayer Endlessly loving and faithful God, thank you for the heavens and the clouds we can see and beyond. May we look up and know the extent of your love and faithfulness. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Reading:
For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her vindication shines out like the dawn, and her salvation like a burning torch. The nations shall see your vindication, and all the kings your glory; and you shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give. You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. You shall no more be termed Forsaken, and your land shall no more be termed Desolate; but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her, and your land Married; for the Lord delights in you, and your land shall be married. For as a young man marries a young woman, so shall your builder marry you, and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you. (Isaiah 62: 1-5) Reflection: I recently received a stunningly beautiful arrangement of flowers. But, as flowers go, they began to wilt and fade. Not to be simply tossed away, I instead started to pull apart the arrangement to take to the compost pile to become fertile soil again for the gardens. I noticed the greens were still in good shape, so I kept them in the vase as a reminder of lasting life. When they are spent, the vase will still hold hope for flowers again someday. Delightful. As I smiled over the gift given then, I will rejoice again. Our reading today is one of beauty, wilting, hope and delight. As I treasured something of beauty and tended it, The Lord will make his people shine. As the flowers faded and I found hope in the greens, God’s people will not be left desolate. As I continue to delight in the gift I received, God delights in us. Let us all rejoice! --Ruth Gates Prayer: Dear God, thank you for calling us yours. Thank you for not leaving us forsaken but rather tending us with care so that you may delight in us, and all may rejoice. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on January 7, 2021.
Reading As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah, John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.” Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” (Luke 3: 15-17, 21-22) Reflection The beginning of Luke chapter 3 is The Proclamation of John the Baptist. Crowds came to see and hear him. He was quite a sight and he certainly had a lot to say. What were their expectations? In the wilderness, of all places, he calls the people a brood of vipers and warns them of being thrown in the fire – probably not what they expected. So, the crowds were filled with questions. I noticed it says they were all asking in their hearts if John was the Messiah; seemingly afraid to speak up out loud. But John knew and answered the one coming will be more powerful and John not even worthy to untie his sandals. Which probably led to more questions of who this may be. Expectations and questions. Jump ahead a few verses to the second part of our reading – The Baptism of Jesus. It sounds like Jesus was being baptized along with everyone else - no band, parade, flag waving or fanfare which is probably what the crowds would have expected. Then the heavens opened, the Holy Spirit descended and a voice spoke – unexpectedly answering all the questions and/or creating more. What are your expectations and what if what happens is not at all what you expected? What are the questions in your heart and what if you end up with more? Notice one more thing. The answers came when Jesus was praying. (Luke 3: 21) What else would you expect? Good question. --Alice Yeakel Prayer Dear God, while Jesus prayed you spoke. Speak to our expectations and questions as we pray. Amen Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Reading: In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising and have come to pay him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.’” Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.”
When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road. (Matthew 2: 1-12) Reflection: There’s a word that comes up three times in the story. Homage. If you look up that word in a dictionary, you will find that it means to give special honor to or show respect publicly. Of course, the wisemen I believe were intent on really paying homage. I’m not so sure about Herod. We begin our season of Epiphany today. It’s the season of the church where Jesus is revealed. If homage is publicly showing respect, then this is a very appropriate story for today. They start the public witness of Jesus here on earth. We’ll see stories in the coming weeks about how Jesus made himself known. Today, my hope is that you take time to pay homage to the one who came to save us. –Chad Hershberger Prayer: Come, let us adore you, Christ the Lord. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on January 6, 2021.
Reading: Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them. The two went down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit (for as yet the Spirit had not come upon any of them; they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus). Then Peter and John laid their hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. (Acts 8: 14-17) Reflection: Word gets around. Those were busy times written about in the book of Acts. In our lesson today of just three verses, the apostles heard that the word of God been accepted in Samaria, Peter and John were sent there, prayers were said that the Holy Spirit would be received, hands were laid, and the gift of the Holy Spirit got around, too. Acts seems to be a book of “movers and shakers” of the early church. The apostles were certainly active in getting the Good News of Jesus and his love around to everyone everywhere they could. God’s Word gets around. How do you get the word around? While we may not be sent to someplace distant, we can still pray right where we are. And while we may not lay hands on people to bestow the Holy Spirit, our hands work in many ways to bestow God’s love. Word gets around. In prayer and in care. --Ruth Gates Prayer: Dear God, may your word of love get around as we pray for all and with our hands care for others. Amen. Reading: Psalm 29
1 Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. 2 Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name; worship the Lord in holy splendor. 3 The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord, over mighty waters. 4 The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty. 5 The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars; the Lord breaks the cedars of Lebanon. 6 He makes Lebanon skip like a calf, and Sirion like a young wild ox. 7 The voice of the Lord flashes forth flames of fire. 8 The voice of the Lord shakes the wilderness; the Lord shakes the wilderness of Kadesh. 9 The voice of the Lord causes the oaks to whirl, and strips the forest bare; and in his temple all say, “Glory!” 10 The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord sits enthroned as king forever. 11 May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace! Reflection: I really like to read the Psalms. I like how they can reflect any kind of mood and that they show how you can come to God with praise and thanksgiving as well as laments and struggles. During the Pandemic the church I attend took the use of Psalms out of the Sunday services. We wanted to shorten the service a little and have less singing. I really miss having the Psalms in the service. Since that was the case, occasionally, I would focus on Psalms for my children’s message that I recorded for Facebook. As I read this Psalm I appreciated the strength and power of God that you see, but then at the end the Lord gives the people strength and peace. I also like how there is a lot of references to nature. Sometimes at camp there are strong storms that blow through. A few times I have been on the back porch of the A-center just admiring the power of God that was in the wind, rain, thunder, and lightning. I am sure not all the campers enjoy these storms, but I appreciate a good thunderstorm. I also appreciate the calm that comes afterwards even if I do have to clean up some of the chairs and frisbees that have been blown off the porch. God’s power is all around us and sometimes it might take a good storm for us to remember that. In the end God does strengthen us and gives us peace. --Charlene Rineer Prayer: All powerful God, we praise you, and are in awe of your glory. Through the storms of life let us listen for your voice. Help us see you in the world around us. We thank you for giving us strength and peace. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. Reading
But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I give Egypt as your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in exchange for you. Because you are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you, I give people in return for you, nations in exchange for your life. Do not fear, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, and from the west I will gather you; I will say to the north, “Give them up,” and to the south, “Do not withhold; bring my sons from far away and my daughters from the end of the earth— everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” (Isaiah 43: 1-7) Reflection As a mother, I believe that my most important job is to make sure that my children know how much they are loved. I want them to be kind and generous. I want them to love God. I want them to have self-confidence and to stand up for what is right. But don’t all those traits flow from a knowledge that you are loved? That you are precious and belong to someone so completely that nothing can change that? In today’s passage from Isaiah, God says exactly that to me, to you, to all of us. “You are mine… you are precious in my sight… and I love you.” Let us go confidently into the new year knowing that whatever fire or waters we pass through He is with us and we are loved. --Erin Hayes Prayer Loving God, thank you for creating us and loving us. Help us to trust that you are with us and that we are precious in your sight. Amen. Our devotions are based on this Sunday’s Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a three-year cycle of readings telling the story of our Christian faith and corresponding to the season church calendar. On any given Sunday, we are hearing and praying and examining the same Scripture with millions of Christians around the world. In our current Year C, the Old Testament readings progress through the Prophets and have the theme of the day that it is connected to the Gospel reading. The Psalm, a song the congregation sings in response to the Old Testament reading, most often corresponds to the theme of the Hebrew Lessons and/or that of the Gospel Lesson. The lesson from the Epistles or from Acts typifies the church’s focus on the meaning of Christ for today. The Gospel lesson is connected to the season of the Church Year. This year, our gospel readings are from Luke, who writes that Jesus is the universal Savior and the perfect Son of Man. In the current season of Epiphany, Christ is revealed, the disciples are called, and we see the early ministry of Jesus. |
Authors
Anyone is welcome to contribute! If you'd like to write for us, please e-mail [email protected] Email
Get our daily devotions delivered to your e-mail box each day by signing up below:
Archives
May 2022
Subscribe |