September 7, 2018

Love Your Neighbor as Yourself

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We may also find ourselves “labeling” people based on their physical ability—like seeing or walking or comprehending. We use the terms disabled and whole to divide people. We lump all those who cannot participate in certain activities due to varying degrees of capability into one group. “We,” on the other...

Lord, we know that wholeness comes not from our abilities but from our willingness to follow your commands. Amen.

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Lectionary Week

September 3–9, 2018

Scripture Overview

It has become an uncomfortable subject for many in our society, but God does have ethical standards. The author of Proverbs declares that those who act unjustly, particularly if they oppress the poor, will provoke God’s judgment. The psalmist repeats the refrain that God blesses the righteous but is not pleased with those who choose a consistent lifestyle of rebellion against God. James challenges us practically on this point. Do we judge people by their wealth or status? This is not from God. Truth faith shows no partiality and prompts action. Jesus models this in Mark when he heals two Gentiles. Jews and Gentiles generally remained separate (an ancient form of racism), but Jesus did not discriminate based on their ethnicity. He cared only about their hearts.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23. How has God shown you that there is no difference between persons who are rich and persons who are poor?
• Read Psalm 125. When have you seen righteousness in someone your church or community has labeled “wicked”?
• Read James 2:1-17. How do your works support your faith in God?
• Read Mark 7:24-37. God calls us to love all our neighbors, no matter their abilities or place of origin. How can you be a good neighbor to those your community has excluded?

Respond by posting a prayer.