Songwriter Diane Warren penned a Grammy award-winning tribute to her father, “Because You Loved Me.” The lyrics of the song proclaim a love that profoundly influences the life of another. In verses 14-16, the Lord turns the tables on us. “Those who love me, I will deliver; I will protect...

Gracious and loving God, thank you for first loving me. Remind me of my responsibility in our relationship. Show me the way forward so that your faithfulness is not met with my faithlessness. Amen.


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Lectionary Week
September 19–25, 2016
Scripture Overview

The Bible warns about the delusions that wealth brings, repeatedly directing readers’ attention to the poor and the destitute. Luke’s Gospel text culminates in Jesus’ story of the rich man and Lazarus. Only in the next life, when the rich man is rid of his riches, can he see Lazarus, now secure at Abra- ham’s side. First Timothy contains a series of warnings to pros- perous readers that having the basic necessities of life should be enough. Greed diverts attention away from the God “who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” And against the best wisdom of all the nancial planners of Judah, Jeremiah purchases the eld at Anathoth. The prophet invests his money in the divine promise, in the outlandish conviction that God is faithful.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15. Where do you see God’s prom- ises in your life? How do you act on them? What keeps you from acting on them?
• Read Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16. In what setting do you experience a sense of God’s shelter?
• Read 1 Timothy 6:6-19. With what do you nd yourself content?
• Read Luke 16:19-31. How do you maintain an ability to see those in need? How do you address those needs?

Respond by posting a prayer.