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Gratitude and Joy
A good friend’s husband was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. Together they went through two months Read More
Yolanda M. Norton | Read Luke 19:1-10
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Sign Up TodayTax collectors during Jesus’ time are generally known for their corrupt practices and their relationship with the Roman empire. This is not the kind of person that one might naturally put in close proximity with Jesus. Yet, here is Zacchaeus, a tax collector, intent on seeing Jesus. Zacchaeus finds the...
God, help us to run to Jesus knowing he will recognize us and welcome us. Amen.
This week includes All Saints Day, when we remember those who have come before and handed down the faith to us, especially through trials. Habakkuk reminds us that our predecessors sometimes suffered discouragement, but the righteous have always lived by faith. The psalmist also has experienced hard times, but he knows that God’s commandments are true and lead to life. The Thessalonians have experienced persecution as well; yet through their strength their faith and love continue to grow to the glory of Christ. May the same be said of us and our church communities! The famous story of Zacchaeus illustrates that the crowd of faithful witnesses that we celebrate on All Saints Day includes those who have been lost—outsiders—for Jesus comes to seek and save the lost.
Read Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4. How can you wait actively for God’s response to your prayers and complaints? How will you enact God’s response when it comes?
Read Psalm 119:137-144. How do you persist in following God’s commandments in the face of injustice and corruption?
Read 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12. The work of the church has never been easy. How does your faith community work to exude God’s love in a time when many reject or feel rejected by church institutions?
Read Luke 19:1-10. When have you run to Jesus? How can you share your experience so others pursue Jesus as well?
Respond by posting a prayer.
“We all have a desire to connect and belong. It is my prayer that every young person seeking God and a safe place to belong will find a faith community that loves and supports them.”
You can help youth and young adults find a safe place to belong. Give to the youth and young ministries of The Upper Room.
