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January 3, 2018

God Our Redeemer

Stephen B. Chapman   |   Read Isaiah 61:10-11 , Read Isaiah 62:1-3

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Lectionary Week
January 1–7, 2018
Scripture Overview

The beginning of the New Year reminds us of God’s love for all peoples through the celebration of Epiphany. Isaiah uses imagery of a wedding and a garden to declare that the beauty arising from Israel will go to all nations. The psalmist praises the Lord on behalf of everything and everyone on the earth, including men and women from all peoples. Paul proclaims that Christ fulfills the expectations of Israel; he is the open door for all to become children of God. In Luke, Simeon and Anna speak prophetically over the infant Jesus in the Temple, declaring him the light to the Gentiles. God’s promises made in love are fulfilled in love.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Isaiah 61:10–62:3. How are you daily becoming Zion, a person of justice?
• Read Psalm 148. How does your connection to God connect you to creation?
• Read Galatians 4:4-7. How confident are you that God listens to your prayer?
• Read Luke 2:22-40. When have you experienced sacrifice as gain rather than loss?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Isaiah 61:10-11

10 I surely rejoice in the LORD; my heart is joyful because of my God, because he has clothed me with clothes of victory, wrapped me in a robe of righteousness like a bridegroom in a priestly crown, and like a bride adorned in jewelry. 11 As the earth puts out its growth, and as a garden grows its seeds, so the LORD God will grow righteousness and praise before all the nations.

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

Isaiah 62:1-3

1 For Zion’s sake I won’t keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I won’t sit still until her righteousness shines out like a light, and her salvation blazes like a torch. 2 Nations will see your righteousness, all kings your glory. You will be called by a new name, which the LORD’s own mouth will determine. 3 You will be a splendid garland in the LORD’s hand, a royal turban in the palm of God’s hand.

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

If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand wither!” (Ps. 137:5). This verse recalls the importance of the city of Jerusalem within the Bible. Christians focus so much on God’s universal presence that we can struggle to consider any one place as holier than another. Yet the Bible...

O God, we pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Grant us the courage to live justly and promote greater understanding. We know you bless peacemakers. Amen.


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