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January 26, 2021

Power and Authority

Ashley Hales   |   Read Psalm 111:1-10

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Lectionary Week
January 25–31, 2021
Scripture Overview

This week’s readings center on God’s authority. In Deuteronomy God promises to raise up a prophet to guide the people, and God warns the people not to listen to voices that do not speak for God. The psalmist overflows with praise for God’s great works. God is powerful and awesome, yet also gracious and merciful. Paul instructs the Corinthians to place the rights of others before their own rights. A person’s conscience may allow one to exercise freedom in Christ; however, with this freedom comes responsibility. We must surrender our own rights, if necessary, for the good of others. In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus shows his power over the forces of darkness: Even the unclean spirits recognize and obey him.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Deuteronomy 18:15-20. To whom or to what setting do you turn when you yearn to hear God’s voice?
Read Psalm 111. For what are you praising God today? How have you experienced God’s steadfast love recently?
Read 1 Corinthians 8:1-13. What do you think of Paul’s statement, “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up”? Can you think of examples of this in your everyday life?
Read Mark 1:21-28. How do you react to the concept of authority? How does the authority of Jesus differ from the authority we may encounter in the world?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Psalm 111:1-10

1 Praise the LORD! I thank the LORD with all my heart in the company of those who do right, in the congregation. 2 The works of the LORD are magnificent; they are treasured by all who desire them. 3 God’s deeds are majestic and glorious. God’s righteousness stands forever. 4 God is famous for his wondrous works. The LORD is full of mercy and compassion. 5 God gives food to those who honor him. God remembers his covenant forever. 6 God proclaimed his powerful deeds to his people and gave them what had belonged to other nations. 7 God’s handiwork is honesty and justice; all God’s rules are trustworthy 8 they are established always and forever: they are fulfilled with truth and right doing. 9 God sent redemption for his people; God commanded that his covenant last forever. Holy and awesome is God’s name! 10 Fear of the LORD is where wisdom begins; sure knowledge is for all who keep God’s laws. God’s praise lasts forever!

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

When we are caught up in the beauty and perfection of something, we can’t help but praise it. From a friend or spouse, to a sunset or an artistic work, we are moved to praise that which we love.

In Psalm 111, the psalmist exudes praise for the steadfast love...

Help me, God, to name your good deeds in my life. May your splendor lead me to worship. Remove anything that hinders my praise. Amen.


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