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June 1, 2023

Interdependent from Beginning to End

Ginger E. Gaines-Cirelli   |   Read 2 Corinthians 13:11-13

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Lectionary Week
May 29–June 4, 2023
Scripture Overview

Our first reading is arguably one of the most controversial passages in the Bible. Even among those who believe that God created the world, there is controversy. For example, should the days be understood as literal or symbolic? Much time and trouble have been spent in arguing about these things. A different approach is found in Psalm 8, where the author simply praises God for the majestic work of Creation without needing to work out all the details. Perhaps this approach would lead to more love and peace among the people of God, as Paul hopes for in Second Corinthians. Matthew describes the Ascension, where Jesus tells his followers to baptize in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, an appropriate passage in preparation for Trinity Sunday.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Genesis 1:1–2:4a. When has reading the Bible in a new way or with new knowledge changed your experience of the text?Read Psalm 8. How do you feel called to care for the earth God has given us?Read 2 Corinthians 13:11-13. How does your faith community heed Paul’s advice to the Corinthians? How does it fall short?Read Matthew 28:16-20. Recall a time of doubt. How has that experience made your faith stronger?

Respond by posting a prayer .

2 Corinthians 13:11-13

11 Finally, brothers and sisters, good-bye. Put things in order, respond to my encouragement, be in harmony with each other, and live in peace—and the God of love and peace will be with you. 12 Say hello to each other with a holy kiss. All of God’s people say hello to you. 13 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

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

“Greet one another with a holy kiss.” This is an early reference to a practice in worship that some love and others loathe: the “passing of the peace.” Regardless of where you fall on the love or loathe continuum, the practice has an interesting history.

The “kiss of peace” dates...

Merciful God, teach us the ways of peace, whether through ritual or relationships. Give us courage to seek reconciliation in the broken places. Amen.


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