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April 4, 2019

A New Thing

Todd Outcalt (UR Books)   |   Read Psalm 126:4-6

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Lectionary Week
April 1–7, 2019
Scripture Overview

God is constantly performing works of renewal. Isaiah had warned Israel of judgment, yet here the prophet turns his attention to the other part of God’s message, that of restoration. God will breathe new life into the people, like sending rivers into the desert. The psalmist celebrates a communal festival in honor of the renewing deeds of God, who has turned their weeping into joy. Paul also experiences this work of renewal. He previously had boasted of his privileged position in society, but God has changed his thinking so that he considers his knowledge of Christ his greatest possession. In John a woman named Mary begins to point our attention to Christ’s coming passion by anointing Jesus’ feet. Crowds begin to gather, and the stage is set for the impending conflict.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Isaiah 43:16-21. When have you seen God make a way for a new thing in your life?
Read Psalm 126. Consider how your joy and laughter might heal others.
Read Philippians 3:4b-14. When has God’s strength helped you finish a race, literally or metaphorically?
Read John 12:1-8. God gives gifts to all of us. How do you share your gift from God with others?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Psalm 126:4-6

4 LORD, change our circumstances for the better, like dry streams in the desert waste! 5 Let those who plant with tears reap the harvest with joyful shouts. 6 Let those who go out, crying and carrying their seed, come home with joyful shouts, carrying bales of grain!

Unless otherwise indicated, scripture quotations are from the Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible. Used by permission.

One young man in my congregation is a particularly positive influence. He uses a wheelchair, and his engaging spirit and his smile are infectious. His attitude and demeanor have changed our congregation. And I have known many others who bring joy and affirmation to the lives of others. We all...

Gracious God, how marvelous are your gifts! Give me joy today that will transform my struggles and turn darkness into light. Amen.


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