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November 14, 2017

Multiplying Mercy in Many Forms

DONNA CLAYCOMB SOKOL   |   Read Psalm 123:1-4

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Lectionary Week
November 13–19, 2017
Scripture Overview

In the book of Judges, we find a woman confidently leading a patriarchal nation as though it were an everyday occurrence. The psalm reminds us that the need for mercy reduces each and every one to a posture of outstretched hands and upturned eyes. To sing such a song on the way to worship, as was traditionally done, is to prepare the mind and heart for the possibility of whatever blessing may be given upon arrival. In First Thessalonians we overhear an apostle’s exhortation to live openly and expectantly regarding God’s future revelation—alert to the coming of Christ but also aware that Christ may come in sudden and unanticipated ways. Finally, a parable in Matthew runs counter to our instincts to safeguard that which we treasure, challenging us to consider the ways in which faithfulness involves a strange coupling of risk and reward.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Judges 4:1-7. Reread the last paragraph of Monday’s meditation and reflect on the writer’s two questions.
• Read Psalm 123. How do you address God? Is God more “enthroned above” for you, or “right here in [your] midst”?
• Read 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11. The writer states, “We stay awake each time we practice acts of love and mercy.” When have you felt divinely awakened by an act of love?
• Read Matthew 25:14-30. Identify ways you take risks in your life presently. Do any of these risks relate to living out your faith?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Psalm 123:1-4

1 I raise my eyes to you you who rule heaven. 2 Just as the eyes of servants attend to their masters’ hand, just as the eyes of a female servant attend to her mistress’ hand that’s how our eyes attend to the LORD our God until he has mercy on us. 3 Have mercy on us, LORD! Have mercy because we’ve had more than enough shame. 4 We’ve had more than enough mockery from the self-confident, more than enough shame from the proud.

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

When did you last stand in the middle of a circle? If you’ve ever faced a challenging medical diagnosis, then you may know the power of people circling around you, placing hands on your shoulders, arms, or back before someone anoints your forehead with oil and prays for healing.
Or...

Lord, Jesus Christ, have mercy on me, a sinner. Amen.


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