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June 28, 2019

Investing in Others

John A. Fischer (Washington)   |   Read Galatians 5:1, 13-15

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Lectionary Week
June 24–30, 2019
Scripture Overview

This week’s readings open with the dramatic scene of Elijah’s departure. As the prophet is taken into heaven by fiery chariots, his cloak falls to his successor, Elisha—symbolic of the continuation of God’s prophetic work. The psalmist praises the Lord for being the source of all good. The Lord gives guidance, protection, security, and joy. Paul reminds us that freedom in Christ comes with responsibility. We cannot live to satisfy our fleshly desires. If we live in the power of the Spirit, then our manner of life should stand out and bear godly fruit. In the Gospel reading, Jesus challenges his followers with the cost of discipleship. His statements here may seem extreme, but he is pointing out that we can be tempted to find excuses for not proclaiming the kingdom of God.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14. When has fire—real or metaphorical—changed your life? How have you seen God working in this change?
Read Psalm 16. Recall a time when you needed God’s protection. How did you keep God in front of you?
Read Galatians 5:1, 13-25. Along with our freedom, we are given a responsibility. How do you use your freedom to serve others?
Read Luke 9:51-62. When have you heard Jesus’ call to follow? What have you had to leave behind to follow the one who has “set his face to go to Jerusalem”?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Galatians 5:1, 13-15

1 Christ has set us free for freedom. Therefore, stand firm and don’t submit to the bondage of slavery again. 13 You were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only don’t let this freedom be an opportunity to indulge your selfish impulses, but serve each other through love. 14 All the Law has been fulfilled in a single statement: Love your neighbor as yourself. 15 But if you bite and devour each other, be careful that you don’t get eaten up by each other!

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

It’s Friday. The weekend beckons. We have free time to enjoy and to worship. Paul writes to the Galatians, “For freedom Christ has set us free.” Freedom not only for the weekend, but for time and eternity. Now that’s what I call freedom. Free from the shackles of the law....

Lord, we want to live our lives for you and for others. Thank you for this kind of freedom in Jesus. Amen.


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