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.

Saturday, October 4, 2014

Reflection on the readings for October 4

Glorious are you,
more majestic than 
the everlasting mountains.
(Psalm 76:4)

Jeremiah 2:31-4:18
The consequences of sin are dire. It's time to repent.

Colossians 1:1-17
Paul and Timothy (or perhaps other apostles writing in their names) give words to prayers of gratitude and of hope for the Colossians. As we read the prayer, we can think about our own congregations--how we originated, what gifts we exhibit and share, and what problems we face.

Paul prays that they will be filled with the knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And he adds to this request the reason for it--so that they may lead lives worthy of the Lord, so that they may bear fruit in every good work.

But, he explicitly includes the recognition that wisdom and work will not preclude pain. Not preclude but means to overcome.

God has rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of Christ in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Psalm 76:1-12

Proverbs 24:21-22
My child, fear the Lord and the king,
and do not disobey either of them.
for disaster comes from them suddenly,
and who knows the ruin that both can bring?

Prayer for Today: O Lord, forgive for the wrongs we have committed, for the rights we never got around to doing. We ask that you fill us with your Spirit so that we can live lives worthy of you, pleasing to you. Amen.

No comments: