November 9, 2019

Coming Alive in Christ

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Today’s psalm of praise tells us two specific and related things about God: God is near, and God is just.

God is as close to us as our very next breath. The Hebrew word ruach can mean breath, wind, or spirit. If you sit on a bench and watch a...

God of justice and truth, draw us into this work with you. Use us to aid you in making all things new. Amen.

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Lectionary Week

November 4–10, 2019

Scripture Overview

Following the return from exile to Babylon, the people of God have much work to do to restore the city of Jerusalem. Haggai is one of the prophets sent by God to encourage them. God promises future material blessings for the people and a time of peace. The psalmist praises God and declares that future generations will pass on the stories of God’s wonderful works. In Second Thessalonians, Paul addresses a group that is disturbed because they think they have missed the return of Christ. He assures them that they have not missed the time and admonishes them to persevere in their faith. In Luke, Jesus is asked about marriage in the resurrection, but he focuses on God as the God of the living.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Haggai 1:15b–2:9. When have you had to rely on God’s promises for the future? How did your faith in God’s provision keep you focused on the long-term goal?
Read Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21. How do you share God’s majesty and justice with the next generations?
Read 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17. How do you live a disciplined life, trusting in the Lord whether or not the end is near?
Read Luke 20:27-38. How can you be open to the ways God will answer your questions in unexpected ways?

Respond by posting a prayer.