July 12, 2023

God’s Surprising Salvation

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

July 10–16, 2023

Scripture Overview

Even great people in the faith have moments of imperfection. Not all biblical stories are biblical examples. Jacob should feed his brother out of concern, but he takes advantage of the situation and robs Esau of his birthright. The psalmist asks the Lord to show him how to live. God’s word is a lamp to his feet and a light to his path. Paul in Romans contrasts the life of the flesh and the life in the Spirit. Without the power of God, we are doomed to repeat our mistakes in the flesh; but the Spirit sets us free. Jesus reminds us in Matthew that the effectiveness of the gospel is not based on our efforts. We sow the seed, but we cannot control whether it takes root.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Genesis 25:19-34. How do you experience God’s “nevertheless”—God’s grace—as you work through the baggage of your birthright?
Read Psalm 119:105-112. What offering of praise do you feel led to bring? What can you learn today from God’s precepts?
Read Romans 8:1-11. In learning what spiritual practices strengthen you, what practices did you try that did not work? Now that you know what works, how might working on practices you once found unhelpful grow your faith?
Read Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23. In what unexpected place might you sow seeds of God’s love?

Respond by posting a prayer.

For God’s people, Israel, the Mosaic law became the heartbeat of life. It was the ubiquitous communal curriculum (to be written on doorposts, strapped to foreheads, recited upon going out and coming in) and was therefore critical to shaping Israel’s identity as God’s chosen people. It also provided a pathway...

Subscribe to Continue Reading

Teach us, O God, to walk the lighted path of righteousness as its own reward, trusting always in your Word, whom darkness cannot overcome. Amen.

0 Comments