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A Boat with No Oars
Collage by Beth A. Richardson It has been a year since our lives were upended by Read More
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J. Barrie Shepherd | Read Genesis 12:1-4
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Sign Up Today“The Turning Point.” That’s what these verses might be called. Or “The Crossroads.” Until this point, things have gone steadily downhill. Our story, this scriptural history of humankind—the forbidden fruit in the garden, Cain’s murder of Abel, Noah and the flood, the tower of Babel—has been one of increasing disobedience,...
Make me aware, O God, of where I stand. Remind me of my spiritual roots in your working to bring renewal to creation. Then go with me as I set forth, like Abram, toward your Promised Land. Amen.
The readings for this week provide an overview of the history of God’s people. Genesis recounts the story of Abraham, who because of his great faith leaves his home and goes to a land that God has promised to show him. The psalmist speaks for the descendants of Abraham, who trust in the Lord to watch over them and be their helper. Paul in Romans argues against those who believe that God’s grace is a result of correctly following religious law. It is Abraham’s faith (for there is no law in Abraham’s time) that prompts him to follow God, and for this he is commended. Both Gospel passages (John and Matthew) emphasize that the story of Jesus is the continuation of a relationship with God’s faithful people that began with Abraham.
Read Genesis 12:1-4a. Recall a major and a minor crossroads in your life. How did you listen for God’s call during each time?
Read Psalm 121. Reflect on the times in your life when this psalm has most strongly resonated with you. How do your strongest emotions point you to God’s presence?
Read Romans 4:1-5, 13-17. What motivates you to do good works? How do you balance “faith alone” and the action to which God calls you?
Read John 3:1-17. How do you hear again the powerful words of verses so familiar they permeate culture? What makes these words fresh for you?
Respond by posting a prayer.
Seeing young people, both men and women, participate in and write their testimonies at The Upper Room daily devotional writers’ workshop in Yangon, 2019, has been a highlight for me. The event and testimonies led to the publication of the first Lenten devotional in the Myanmar language. I truly believe that through The Upper Room ministry, the Lord will continue to equip people in Myanmar to grow and to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.”
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