July 24, 2022

Longing for Reconciliation

Jeannie Alexander | Read Colossians 2:16-19

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

July 18–24, 2022

Scripture Overview

Hosea can be a difficult book with troublesome metaphors. This prophet is called to live with an unfaithful wife as an image of how Israel is unfaithful to God. Yet even in this initial statement of judgment, God includes a promise of restoration. Psalm 85 appeals to God’s steadfast love. God has become angry with the people for their unfaithfulness, and the people appeal for God’s mercy, which they are confident they will receive. The Colossians reading warns against replacing or even supplementing the simple truth of the gospel with human wisdom, religious rules, or anything else. We have fellowship with Christ through our faith. Jesus teaches us to ask God for what we need and for what we want just as we would ask a human parent.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Hosea 1:2-10. How is God reminding you of your covenant relationship?
Read Psalm 85. When have you needed to pray for restoration in your life, in your relationships with the wider community, or in your relationship with God?
Read Colossians 2:6-19. Paul teaches us the value of community. How can you help make the community more just?
Read Luke 11:1-13. How has praying regularly changed you? If you do not pray regularly, start a practice now. Look for the ways it changes you.

Respond by posting a prayer.

The work of reconciliation is only sustainable inside the community of all who seek to be reconciled without exception. We need each other. We are a body of holy revolution and renewal, growing “with a growth that is from God.” We need each other to see the work finished.

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Where have we sought to weed out the “other” from the garden? What could an inclusive garden look like over the carefully manicured garden of empire?

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