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May 24, 2020

Empowered by the Spirit

Stephanie A. Ford   |   Read Psalm 47:1-9

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Lectionary Week
May 18–24, 2020
Scripture Overview

Though Jesus has taught his disciples that God’s kingdom is not an earthly one, following the Resurrection some are still expecting him to set up a kingdom on earth. Instead, Jesus ascends into heaven in front of them, being taken up in the clouds. The scene recalls Psalm 68, where the Lord is described as one who rides on the clouds across the expanse of the heavens. In the Gospel reading, Jesus anticipates his coming departure and prays for his followers. Peter talks about a trial—literally a “fiery ordeal”—that is testing Christians. The reference to fire may be specific, for the Roman historian Tacitus records that Nero killed Christians in Rome by burning them alive. The author may therefore be speaking about suffering that is not just metaphorical.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Acts 1:6-14. When have you experienced the power of community?
Read Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35. Recall a time when you recognized God’s power with fear and joy. How might that have been a foretaste of God’s kingdom?
Read 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11. How have you walked with faith through suffering?
Read John 17:1-11. What does it mean for you or your congregation that Jesus prayed for unity among his followers?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Psalm 47:1-9

1 Clap your hands, all you people! Shout joyfully to God with a joyous shout! 2 Because the LORD Most High is awesome, he is the great king of the whole world. 3 He subdues the nations under us, subdues all people beneath our feet. 4 He chooses our inheritance for us: the heights of Jacob, which he loves. Selah 5 God has gone up with a joyous shout the LORD with the blast of the ram’s horn. 6 Sing praises to God! Sing praises! Sing praises to our king! Sing praises 7 because God is king of the whole world! Sing praises with a song of instruction! 8 God is king over the nations. God sits on his holy throne. 9 The leaders of all people are gathered with the people of Abraham’s God because the earth’s guardians belong to God; God is exalted beyond all.

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

On this Ascension Sunday, we are called to rejoice with all the company of earth and heaven in the gift of our risen Lord. Christ has ascended. Alleluia! We are not left powerless; we are promised the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. Though Psalm 47 long predates Jesus’ life...

Holy Spirit, as Pentecost nears I am filled with anticipation and thanksgiving. So may I praise you with heart, mind, spirit, and body. Amen.


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