November 18, 2018

Looking to the Lord

Christine Joy Martinez | Read Mark 13:1-8

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Lectionary Week

November 12–18, 2018

Scripture Overview

The inability to have a child brings pain to many today, and this was equally true in ancient times. In that context it was sometimes even worse, for Peninnah openly ridicules Hannah for being unable to conceive. But as a result of her desperate, heartfelt prayer, God blesses Hannah with a son, Samuel, who will become a powerful prophet. Hannah then rejoices in a God who exalts the poor and needy. Hannah provides an example of the boldness with which we also can approach God now because of Christ’s sacrifice. The destruction of Jerusalem is the focus of the passage in Mark. Jesus here predicts the demolition of the Temple and the city, which the Romans executed in 70 ce.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read 1 Samuel 1:4-20. When have you felt trapped by circumstances not of your own making? How did the situation resolve itself?
• Read 1 Samuel 2:1-10. When has a situation in your life changed because you persisted in prayer? What did that experience teach you?
• Read Hebrews 10:11-25. Do you perceive God’s remembering your sin no more as encouragement or license? Why?
• Read Mark 13:1-8. What signs make you anxious about the world’s future? What helps you rest easier?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Rattled by Jesus’ prediction, the disciples eagerly inquire about the details of the impending threat of the Temple’s destruction. “When will this be, and what will be the sign that all these things are about to be accomplished?” Rather than directly answering the questions, Jesus issues further warnings and a...

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Lord, in these times of unrest and natural calamity, may I be a light in this dark world and be a vessel of your gospel of peace as we, your people, await your coming. Amen.

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