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Jesus Had Compassion for Them
[Jesus] withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. When the crowds learned this, Read More
The Upper Room is here for you in these anxious times. Click Here
Stephen B. Chapman | Read Galatians 4:4-7
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Sign Up TodayIn modern life, time has become primarily a quantitative measure. “How much time is left?” we ask. Yet we also talk about having a bad time or a good time, which suggests that time possesses a qualitative dimension as well. Paul writes of the “fullness” of time when God sent...
Abba, thank you for making us part of your family, for making us part of your plan for the world. Amen.
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.
• 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.
Compassion is the heartbeat of humanity. When we are living in our truest, deepest selves we know how to care and connect.”
