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When Jesus Moves In: An Advent Reflection
The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. —John 1:14, The Message When Read More
Ronald Bell | Read 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
Twice a year every year—usually around New Year’s Day and then again at the beginning of summer—I get this bold idea that I am going to start working out and get in shape. I buy a bunch of new clothes, fill the fridge with fruits and vegetables, and order powders,...
Lord, help us to pause, stop, breathe, wait, and listen. May we hear you clearly in all that we do. Help us, Lord, to surrender our will to yours and walk joyfully in the freedom you provide for us. Amen.
We read the stories of Samuel and the calling of Jesus’ disciples in John, and it’s easy to feel jealous. God spoke so directly into their lives that they should have had, it seems to us, full and unwavering confidence in their callings. Didn’t they have an unfair spiritual advantage over us? However, the psalmist reminds us that God knows and sees us individually just as well as God knew Samuel and Jesus knew his disciples. God has plans for us, even if they are revealed in less obvious ways. The reading from First Corinthians is quite different in its message. Perhaps we can at least recognize that even if we never hear God’s audible voice, through scripture God still provides guidance for our lives.
:
Read 1 Samuel 3:1-20. Can you think of a time when you failed to hear God calling you? What helps you to listen to God?
Read Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18. How does the knowledge that all humans are “fearfully and wonderfully made” inform the way you regard and care for others?
Read 1 Corinthians 6:12-20. Paul writes, “All things are lawful.” What does that mean to you? What are the responsibilities inherent in such freedom?
Read John 1:43-51. Who are the people who invited you to “come and see” Jesus? Is there someone around you to whom you could extend that invitation today?
Respond by posting a prayer.
