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November 26, 2017

The God Who Searches for Us

JOE E. PENNEL JR.   |   Read Matthew 25:45-46

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Lectionary Week
November 20–26, 2017
Scripture Overview

The universal rule of God, expressed in Christ the Shepherd-King, is a dominant theme in all the texts assigned for the week. Both Old Testament texts dwell on the nurturing, protecting role of the Shepherd-King, whose people we are. Ezekiel 34 gives the shepherd’s guiding and defending role a political twist by condemning the succession of shepherd-kings who have neglected and exploited the flock. Both New Testament passages celebrate the victory of Christ: the enthroned Son of Man of Matthew 25 separates the flock, and the risen Christ of Ephesians 1 is seated by God “far above all rule and authority and power and dominion.” Christ guarantees God’s completed reign.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24. How does it feel to be compared to sheep with God as the shepherd? What would the sheep expect from the shepherd? What would the shepherd expect from the sheep?• Read Psalm 100. How would a total stranger know that your faith in God brings you joy?
• Read Ephesians 1:15-23. Would you say that you love God more with your mind or with your heart?
• Read Matthew 25:31-46. What is required for you to be so attuned to others that you would recognize the Christ in them? How will you ensure that Christ’s kingdom comes on earth as it is in heaven?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Matthew 25:45-46

45 Then he will answer, ‘I assure you that when you haven’t done it for one of the least of these, you haven’t done it for me.’ 46 And they will go away into eternal punishment. But the righteous ones will go into eternal life.”

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

On the day that I was ordained as an elder in The United Methodist Church, a beloved older pastor gave me some well-intended advice: “Joe, as a pastor you are so very fortunate
to be able to carry Christ to little children, to the sick, to the funeral home, to...

Almighty God, help me to glorify your reign by loving all whom you love. In the name of him who reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.


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