January 17, 2019

With You Is the Fountain of Life

Linda McKinnish Bridges | Read 1 Corinthians 12:1-11

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

January 14–20, 2019

Scripture Overview

Popular conceptions of God sometimes mislead us. Messages coming even from within Christianity sometimes make us think that God is constantly angry, just waiting for us to slip up. This week’s readings remind us of the truth. Isaiah teaches us that God delights in God’s people just as a groom delights in his bride. This love, the psalmist proclaims, is steadfast and never-ending. The life of Jesus shows us that God even wants us to have a good time in this life. Jesus chooses a wedding as the place to perform his first sign. He multiplies the wine in order to multiply the enjoyment of the guests. Paul in First Corinthians speaks of spiritual gifts. These gifts are all given by God for the good of the entire community.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Isaiah 62:1-5. Recall a time when you have flourished and a time when your life was far from peace and order. How did you feel God’s delight in each situation?
Read Psalm 36:5-10. When have you felt God’s light, been quenched by the fountain of life, or taken refuge in the shadow of God’s wings?
Read 1 Corinthians 12:1-11. How can you use your God-given gifts to complement others’ and to support the common good?
Read John 2:1-11. How do Jesus’ miracles help you to understand his identity as the Son of God?

Respond by posting a prayer.

The language of “common good” seems missing these days. Public servants, servant leaders, and persons working for the good of the whole seem to be in short supply. Paul uses an interesting Greek word with two parts to describe this concept of common good—sum + gifts. The summation of all...

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On this day may you recognize your gifts and then match them up with another and enjoy watching God’s world grow.

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