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.

Friday, August 22, 2014

Reflection on readings for August 22

The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord.
You are our refuge in time of trouble.
You help us and rescue us;
you rescue us from the wicked and save us,
because we take refuge in you.
(adapted from Psalm 37:39-40)

Job 4:1-7:21
His friend Eliphaz responds to Job's despair by asserting that sinners deserve punishment. He advises Job to turn to God and pray for deliverance. Job responds that he would agree except that he doesn't know what he has done to warrant the pain he is in. He then does ask for deliverance.

1 Corinthians 14:18-40
More advice on conducting worship service: Make them intelligible to visitors. Suggested pattern: a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Have only two or at most three people speak in tongues and then only if someone can interpret. Women should be silent.

How much of Paul's advice to the Corinthians applies to our worship services? What advice would he give to us today?

Psalm 37:30-40
Reading this passage today I am reminded of Eliphaz' comments.

Proverbs 21:27
The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination;
how much more when brought with evil intent.

Prayer for Today: O Lord, open us to share your word. O Lord, somehow restrain us from misusing your word. Amen.

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