In today’s reading, the psalmist sings a petition for guidance and a change of heart to follow God’s paths and to learn God’s truth. As the psalmist cries out for forgiveness, understanding, instruction, and humility, we hear an invocation of God’s power to liberate the psalmist—and us—from shame and fear....

Loving God, give us grace to lift our souls to you as we seek the emancipation of your all-encompassing love. Amen.


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Lectionary Week
February 12–18, 2018
Scripture Overview

The season of Lent is now upon us, a time of inward examination that begins on Ash Wednesday. We search ourselves and ask God to search us, so that we can follow God more completely. This examination, however, can become a cause for despair if we do not approach it with God’s everlasting mercy and faithfulness in mind. Although the Flood was a result of judgment, God also saved the faithful and established a covenant with them. The psalmist seeks to learn God’s ways, all the while realizing that he has fallen short and must rely on God’s grace. For Christians, baptism functions as a symbol of salvation and a reminder of God’s covenant faithfulness—not because the water is holy but because God is holy and merciful.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Genesis 9:8-17. When in loss have you experienced a new beginning?
• Read Psalm 25:1-10. How do you remind yourself of your covenant with God?
• Read 1 Peter 3:18-22. When have you given up privilege in order to work for justice?
• Read Mark 1:9-15. When did you last hear God speak these words to you: "You are my . . . beloved; with you I am well pleased"?

Respond by posting a prayer.