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June 22, 2022

The Path of Discipleship

Lydia Wylie-Kellermann   |   Read Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20

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Lectionary Week
June 20–26, 2022
Scripture Overview

This week’s readings open with the dramatic scene of Elijah’s departure. As the prophet is taken into heaven by fiery chariots, his cloak falls to his successor, Elisha—symbolic of the continuation of God’s prophetic work. The psalmist praises the Lord’s mighty works of the past and finds encouragement in them. Paul reminds us that freedom in Christ comes with responsibility. We cannot live to satisfy our fleshly desires. If we live in the power of the Spirit, then our manner of life should stand out and bear godly fruit. In the Gospel reading, Jesus challenges his followers with the cost of discipleship. His statements here may seem extreme, but he is pointing out that we can be tempted to find excuses for not proclaiming the kingdom of God.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14. When has fire—real or metaphorical—changed your life? How have you seen God working in this change?
Read Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20. Recall a time when you needed God’s help. Where did you look for God’s encouragement?
Read Galatians 5:1, 13-25. Along with our freedom, we are given a responsibility. How do you use your freedom to serve others?
Read Luke 9:51-62. When have you heard Jesus’ call to follow? What have you had to leave behind to follow the one who has “set his face to go to Jerusalem”?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20

1 I cry out loud to God out loud to God so that he can hear me! 2 During the day when I’m in trouble I look for my Lord. At night my hands are still outstretched and don’t grow numb; my whole being refuses to be comforted. 11 But I will remember the LORD’s deeds; yes, I will remember your wondrous acts from times long past. 12 I will meditate on all your works; I will ponder your deeds. 13 God, your way is holiness! Who is as great a god as you, God? 14 You are the God who works wonders; you have demonstrated your strength among all peoples. 15 With your mighty arm you redeemed your people; redeemed the children of Jacob and Joseph. Selah 16 The waters saw you, God the waters saw you and reeled! Even the deep depths shook! 17 The clouds poured water, the skies cracked thunder; your arrows were flying all around! 18 The crash of your thunder was in the swirling storm; lightning lit up the whole world; the earth shook and quaked. 19 Your way went straight through the sea; your pathways went right through the mighty waters. But your footprints left no trace! 20 You led your people like sheep under the care of Moses and Aaron.

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

Amid the cries to God, the land rises up. The elements come alive as signs of the intimate connection between Creator and creation. The waters tremble, and the skies echo God’s voice.

The land matters to our faith.

As we read scripture, we can’t help but learn the contours of...

God who breathes life into this world, empower us to become disciples of this land. The earth is crying, and we are listening. Amen.


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