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Lawson: Black Lives Matter a Religious Movement
The Rev. James Lawson says the Black Lives Matter movement is the most important nonviolent campaign Read More
The Upper Room is here for you in these anxious times. Click Here
Carol W. Bumbalough | Read Revelation 21:10 , Read Revelation 22:5
Disciplines is available in a variety of formats: print, digital, and print/digital combo packages. A digital subscription includes access to author bios, the ability to comment, and audio lectio.
Sign Up TodayIn biblical times, cities are surrounded by walls that serve to protect citizens from a multitude of threats: marauding armies, bands of outlaws, and wild animals. The gates are left open during the day to facilitate trade and commerce but are shut tight at night to keep out danger. In...
God, our dwelling place, keep the vision of your heavenly city burning brightly in our hearts so that we may be motivated to seek your peace with God-loving people from all nations. Amen.
The kingdom of God is constantly advancing by the power of the Holy Spirit. In Acts, Paul is driven forward in his missionary activity by the Spirit. He moves westward to Macedonia, where a woman named Lydia becomes the first known convert in Europe. This becomes a base for subsequent mission. In Revelation, the Spirit shows John the new Jerusalem, in which the Lamb will provide light for all nations. Jesus’ disciples wrestle with the idea that he would leave them. He teaches them that he will not leave them alone; he will send the Holy Spirit to empower them. The psalmist does not mention the Spirit but declares that all nations, not just the Israelites, will sing for joy because of God’s saving power.
Read Acts 16:9-15. Recall a specific time when you have followed God. How did you discern God’s voice? What did you do to follow through on God’s call?
Read Psalm 67. How do you share God’s blessings with the world?
Read Revelation 21:10, 22–22:5. What would it mean for there to be no separation between nations? no separation between you and God?
Read John 14:23-29. When have you experienced the Holy Spirit as your Advocate?
Respond by posting a prayer.
Our resolve must be different. My prayer is that we have finally reached a tipping point. My hope is that when the protests fade and the marches slow that our will as a church to truly eradicate the scourge of racism won’t dissipate but grows even stronger.” View a growing list of resources for the spiritual work of overcoming racism.
