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May 21, 2023

Witnessing (to) the Journey

Maureen Knudsen Langdoc   |   Read Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35

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Lectionary Week
May 15–21, 2023
Scripture Overview

Though Jesus has taught his disciples that God’s kingdom is not an earthly one, following the Resurrection some are still expecting him to set up a kingdom on earth. Instead, Jesus ascends into heaven in front of them, being taken up in the clouds. The scene recalls Psalm 68, where the Lord is described as one who rides on the clouds across the expanse of the heavens. In the Gospel reading, Jesus anticipates his coming departure and prays for his followers. Peter talks about a trial—literally a “fiery ordeal”—that is testing Christians. The reference to fire may be specific, for the Roman historian Tacitus records that Nero killed Christians in Rome by burning them alive. The author may therefore be speaking about suffering that is not just metaphorical.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Acts 1:6-14. When have you experienced the power of community?Read Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35. Recall a time when you recognized God’s power with fear and joy. How might that have been a foretaste of God’s kingdom?Read 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11. How have you walked with faith through suffering?Read John 17:1-11. What does it mean for you or your congregation that Jesus prayed for unity among his followers?

Respond by posting a prayer .

Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35

1 Let God rise up; let his enemies scatter; let those who hate him run scared before him! 2 Like smoke is driven away, drive them away! Like wax melting before fire, let the wicked perish before God! 3 But let the righteous be glad and celebrate before God. Let them rejoice with gladness! 4 Sing to God! Sing praises to his name! Exalt the one who rides the clouds! The LORD is his name. Celebrate before him! 5 Father of orphans and defender of widows is God in his holy habitation. 6 God settles the lonely in their homes; he sets prisoners free with happiness, but the rebellious dwell in a parched land. 7 When you went forth before your people, God, when you marched through the wasteland, Selah 8 the earth shook! Yes, heaven poured down before God, the one from Sinai before God, the God of Israel! 9 You showered down abundant rain, God; when your inheritance grew weary, you restored it yourself, 10 and your creatures settled in it. In your goodness, God, you provided for the poor. 32 Sing to God, all kingdoms of the earth! Sing praises to my Lord. Selah 33 Sing to the one who rides through heaven, the most ancient heaven. Look! God sends forth his voice, his mighty voice. 34 Recognize how strong God is! His majesty extends over Israel; his strength is in the clouds. 35 You are awesome, God, in your sanctuaries the God of Israel who gives strength and power to his people! Bless God!

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

Traveling with others can be . . . complicated. You have to negotiate restaurant choices, broker musical selections, keep your cool in confined spaces, adjust to another’s rhythms, share way too much. No wonder many prefer to travel solo!

But in today’s passage, we are reminded of who calls us...

Praise be to God who gives us power and strength! Amen.


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