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January 17, 2017

No Need to Fear

Alina Kanaski   |   Read Psalm 27:1, 4-9

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Lectionary Week
January 16–22, 2017
Scripture Overview

The image of light figures in three of the texts. Light not only illumines but brings a changed situation. The psalmist’s confession links light with salvation. The Gospel lesson expresses deliverance in terms of the nearness of God’s reign, which overcomes diseases and distortions. Light permits well-being. Light is the mode of God’s presence.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Isaiah 9:1-4. When has God called you out of the darkness of an old habit, a familiar circumstance, into the light of new opportunity for ministry?
• Read Psalm 27:1, 4-9. Do you feel more comfortable talking with God about your joys or your pains? Is there need for more openness in either?
• Read 1 Corinthians 1:10-18. In your faith community, when have members found themselves at odds over priorities of no eternal value?
• Read Matthew 4:12-23. Put yourself into the story. What do you hear, see, feel, or smell? How have you answered the call of Jesus?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Psalm 27:1, 4-9

1 The LORD is my light and my salvation. Should I fear anyone? The LORD is a fortress protecting my life. Should I be frightened of anything? 4 I have asked one thing from the LORD it’s all I seek: to live in the LORD’s house all the days of my life, seeing the LORD’s beauty and constantly adoring his temple. 5 Because he will shelter me in his own dwelling during troubling times; he will hide me in a secret place in his own tent; he will set me up high, safe on a rock. 6 Now my head is higher than the enemies surrounding me, and I will offer sacrifices in God’s tent sacrifices with shouts of joy! I will sing and praise the LORD. 7 LORD, listen to my voice when I cry out have mercy on me and answer me! 8 Come, my heart says, seek God’s face. LORD, I do seek your face! 9 Please don’t hide it from me! Don’t push your servant aside angrily you have been my help! God who saves me, don’t neglect me! Don’t leave me all alone!

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

The states of confidence and doubt are jarringly juxtaposed in
this psalm. How can the psalmist go from praise to impassioned
pleas for a glimpse of God’s help? How often do we go
from the spiritual high of Sunday morning to forgetfulness the
rest of the week? the joy of...

What parts of yourself are you afraid to talk with God about? Why?


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