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April 12, 2020

The Wideness of God’s Mercy

Kathleen Stephens   |   Read Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24

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Lectionary Week
April 6–12, 2020
Scripture Overview

Although we anticipate the celebration of Easter, this week’s readings remind us to slow down and walk through the suffering of Jesus. If we fail to understand why he has to die, then we fail to grasp fully the power of his resurrection. Monday’s passage in Isaiah anticipates the Messiah, the Anointed One, coming to bring justice to the nations. Tuesday’s Psalm laments that sometimes the righteous are met with scorn. The Hebrews passage for Wednesday declares that Christ knows of the suffering that awaits him, yet he endures it because of the joy to come. On Thursday, the reading in John shows us that even when facing death, Jesus continues to model selfless love. Friday brings pain and rejection, but Sunday is the greatest day in human history. He is risen indeed!

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read John 13:1-7, 31b-35. Consider someone who has disappointed, hurt, or betrayed you whom God might be calling you to love. How could a posture of service help you act in a loving way even if you cannot feel affection for this person?
Read Isaiah 52:13-53:12. How does this description of a suffering servant help you more fully understand Jesus’ suffering on the cross?
Read Lamentations 3:1-9, 19-24. When has grief felt like mercy? When has noticing you are alive felt like a miracle?
Read Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24. Recall a time you forgot how to sing God’s praises despite the joy around you. How did God provide the song?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24

1 Give thanks to the LORD because he is good, because his faithful love lasts forever. 2 Let Israel say it: “God’s faithful love lasts forever!” 14 The LORD was my strength and protection; he was my saving help! 15 The sounds of joyful songs and deliverance are heard in the tents of the righteous: “The LORD’s strong hand is victorious! 16 The LORD’s strong hand is ready to strike! The LORD’s strong hand is victorious!” 17 I won’t die—no, I will live and declare what the LORD has done. 18 Yes, the LORD definitely disciplined me, but he didn’t hand me over to death. 19 Open the gates of righteousness for me so I can come in and give thanks to the LORD! 20 This is the LORD’s gate; those who are righteous enter through it. 21 I thank you because you answered me, because you were my saving help. 22 The stone rejected by the builders is now the main foundation stone! 23 This has happened because of the LORD; it is astounding in our sight! 24 This is the day the LORD acted; we will rejoice and celebrate in it!

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

In today’s reading, we hear that God is not only our strength, but also our song. Do you hear the songs of victory in the camp of the righteous? the psalmist seems to ask. Singing is an appropriate response to salvation. God has turned the tide. Though God tests us,...

Risen Savior, we celebrate you today. Your breathtaking gift of redemption can stir even vocal cords that have forgotten how to sing. Hallelujah! Amen.


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