We often reprint prior devotions that now reflect on the coming lectionary texts. This is a reprint from a devotion originally published on November 7, 2016.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for giving us the words and wisdom we need for each day and in every situation. Amen Reading: Luke 21: 5-19 (Click to read text) Stop and GROW: After reading the text, discuss/ponder the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Book of Faith questions, which are part of Camp Mount Luther's GROW Time with campers. QUESTION 1: What scares, confuses, challenges, or doesn’t make sense to me in this text? QUESTION 2: What delights me in this text or is my favorite part of the story? QUESTION 3: What stories or memories does this text stir in me? QUESTION 4: What is God up to in this text? Reflection: Much of the text today is doom and gloom yet it ends with the promise that not a hair on our heads will perish and that by endurance our souls will be saved. Well, that's encouraging at least. But what is going to get us through the doom and gloom part? Words and wisdom. In front of a microphone, I tend to freeze. In a spontaneous interview, I choke. While I can memorize speaking lines and song lyrics, talking off the cuff is not a strength for me. Since I am better with the written word, I am more comfortable with a prepared speech or at least notes to guide me. Yet, there have been times when I have simply needed to share from the heart right at the moment or make a point clearly on the spot. There have been times when I open my mouth and pray the right words comes out the wisest way. And it happens. The only explanation for this must be that when help comes from God, the help is with love. If our words are merciful and coming from thoughts of grace, surely our hairs will be spared and our souls will be saved. --Ruth Gates
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
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 |