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November 23, 2016

Walking Joyfully with the Lord

John Frye   |   Read Psalm 122:1-9

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Lectionary Week
November 21–27, 2016
Scripture Overview

Advent is a new year, new time, new life: a genuine newness wrought by God in the world. As both the pro- phetic oracle and the psalm attest, Israel hopes for justice, peace, and well-being. The biblical community knows God’s intention for these matters and trusts God’s faithful promise. Thus Advent begins in a vision of a healed alternative for the world. The New Testament readings intensify the long-standing hopes and make the promises of God immediate prospects. The intensity and present tense of New Testament faith revolve around the presence of Jesus, whose very person initiates a new beginning in the world. The church at Advent watches in order to notice where God is bringing justice, peace, and well-being.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Isaiah 2:1-5. What are your experiences of freedom and un-freedom? Consider how your demands for freedom in certain areas cause others to experience un-freedom.
• Read Psalm 122. When have you gathered for worship with a diverse community? What do you perceive as the bene ts of such a gathering?
• Read Romans 13:11-14. The writer suggests that we con- sider our salvation as a journey. Where are you along the way?
• Read Matthew 24:36-44. We are to KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON. How do you manifest your “readiness” for the coming of the kingdom?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Psalm 122:1-9

1 I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let’s go to the LORD’s house!” 2 Now our feet are standing in your gates, Jerusalem! 3 Jerusalem is built like a city joined together in unity. 4 That is where the tribes go up the LORD’s tribes! It is the law for Israel to give thanks there to the LORD’s name, 5 because the thrones of justice are there the thrones of the house of David! 6 Pray that Jerusalem has peace: “Let those who love you have rest. 7 Let there be peace on your walls; let there be rest on your fortifications.” 8 For the sake of my family and friends, I say, “Peace be with you, Jerusalem.” 9 For the sake of the LORD our God’s house I will pray for your good.

Unless otherwise indicated, scripture quotations are from the Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible. Used by permission.

In reading this psalm, we may feel angry or overcome that the reality of Jerusalem’s history is so very far from peaceful. We may pray, “When, O Lord, will you do these things for this poor, besieged city?”
This may be our reaction, but we can and do feel the...

When have you entered into joyful worship with many different kinds of people? Do you desire such inclusiveness?


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