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Shabbat Shalom!
I have a friend who is a rabbi in the Houston area. When I used to Read More
Marilyn Pagán-Banks | Read Psalm 19:1-14
The psalmist beautifully describes creation in a posture of praise and worship. If we close our eyes, we can almost see the sun in all its splendor responding to the call of the Creator with excellence and expectancy. If we read slowly and listen closely, we can hear the wind...
Creator, forgive us for ignoring the groans of creation. May our confession swiftly lead to acts of healing and a commitment to new ways of living that benefit all creation. Amen.
How do we feel when we read the word of God? The Israelites rejoice in God’s law. At the time of the restoration of Jerusalem after the return from exile, Ezra reads from the Law and explains its meaning to the people. They respond by holding a feast because understanding God’s teachings is a source of joy. The psalmist says that God’s law revives the soul, causes the heart to rejoice, and helps us to see clearly. Paul continues with his teaching on spiritual gifts, emphasizing that all members of the body of Christ have an important role. No one can claim to be any more important than anyone else. In Luke, Jesus reads from Isaiah and declares that his messianic ministry will focus on justice, mercy, and healing.
Read Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10. When has God’s word overwhelmed you? How did you react?
Read Psalm 19. How do you seek to speak or sing words acceptable to God? How does this shape your life?
Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a. Within the body of Christ, as within our human bodies, parts compensate for one another. How do you take on more to support the body of Christ when others struggle? How do you allow others to take on your roles when you struggle?
Read Luke 4:14-21. In what ways have you rejected Jesus?
Respond by posting a prayer.
