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.

Sunday, December 21, 2014

Reflection on One-Year-Bible readings for December 21

I know that the Lord maintains the cause of the needy, 
and executes justice for the poor.
Surely the righteous shall give thanks to your name; 
the upright shall live in your presence,
(Psalm 140:12-13)

Zechariah 1:1-21
The prophet reports that rescue and restoration are coming. Their ancestors had deserved their punishment. It's time now for the people are to repent of those evil ways. Zechariah receives a series of visions. First, a man riding on a red horse; the message is that the Lord cares for Jerusalem and is angry with rich nations. The second vision, four horns and four blacksmiths, is a message that the nations that had destroyed Judah will now be struck down.

Troubling question: Does rescue have to be accompanied by retribution?

Revelation 12:1-17
Today's reading from Revelation also has visions. Conflict in heaven: Satan is defeated--thrown out of heaven and sent to earth.

Psalm 140:1-13
A plea for rescue.

Proverbs 30:17
....
Prayer for Today: O Lord, forgive us for the sins we have committed. Help us then to forgive others who have sinned against us. And, if we just cannot forgive yet,  at least direct us away from handling the revenge ourselves. Amen.

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