It took a year to read the Bible, then almost 9 months to read the Apocrypha. Now, I'm going to try to offer reflections on the Narrative Lectionary. But, I won't be posting daily--at least, for a while.

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Reflection on readings for September 25

Summon your might, O God;
show your strength, O God,
as you have done for us before.
(Psalm 68:28)

Isaiah 45:11-48:11
They had needed rescue. God can send help through unexpected sources.

God had many, many reasons to punish the unfaithful people; yet, God promises a new start.

Ephesians 4:1-16
Insights from Ralph P. Martin in his commentary on Ephesians (part of the Interpretation series).

The first three chapters is a rather idealistic picture of the church--one that can help us see what we should be working towards.

The last three chapters are in Martin's terms "ecclesiology brought to earth"; that is, some harsh realities--harsh, yet not insurmountable.

My heavily reworded summary of his summary of 4:1-16:
1. Be true to your destiny while remembering that unity is essential.
2. Unity does not mean that we are all alike.
3. Church members have different gifts.
4. Christ intends for grownups to be grownups.
5. Christ intends for the church to be grownup.

Psalm 68:19-35

Proverbs 24:3-4
By wisdom a house is built;
and by understanding it is established;
by knowledge the rooms are filled 
with all precious and pleasant riches.

Prayer for Today: O Lord, guide us into the life that is worthy of you. Guide us with your Spirit into humility, gentleness, patience, and love so that we may join with one another in building and maintaining your church. Help us into the maturity we need to keep us working together, to keep growing that church. Amen.

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