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Shabbat Shalom!
I have a friend who is a rabbi in the Houston area. When I used to Read More
Douglas W. Ruffle | Read Luke 18:9-14
The two men in today’s reading go up to the Temple to pray. The Temple was a place of restoration. When Jesus healed a man with leprosy (see Matthew 8:1-4), he instructed him to show himself to the priest who would validate his new, clean state and restore him to...
O God who hears us and delivers us from evil, to you be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
The theme in the readings from the Hebrew scriptures is “abundance.” Joel speaks of the time of plenty in the land of Israel. This abundance is not only physical, for it includes a generous outpouring of the Spirit of God. The psalmist sings of abundant rain that allows the land to flourish. The hills, meadows, and valleys all sing praise to God. Second Timothy 4 contains the scriptural passage that brings us closest to the death of Paul. The apostle has been abandoned by many, but the Lord stands by him as he faces his likely imminent death. In the Gospel, Jesus warns us about the dangers of pride. The Pharisee in the parable thinks his personal goodness brings favor with God, but God desires a humble heart.
Read Joel 2:23-32. How has rain been a sign of God’s impending provision in your life?
Read Psalm 65. How has God’s forgiveness freed you to participate in creation’s joy?
Read 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18. When has God strengthened you in the face of evil?
Read Luke 18:9-14. What aspect of your life do you need to approach with renewed humility?
Respond by posting a prayer.
