Christian Century:
An intellectually compelling look at our faith
subscribe to the Century
My Meditations on the Daily Lectionary
Meditations inspired by readings from the Daily Lectionary as found in the Mission Yearbook of the Presbyterian Church (USA)Elmer E. Ewinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17601870104118149054elmer.ewing@gmail.comBlogger2082125
Updated: 1 hour 13 min ago
August 04, 2010--Faith in Spite of Ignorance
I. Readings
Psalms 96, 147:1-11, 132, 134
Judges 7:19-8:12
Acts 3:12-26
John 1:29-42
II. Selections
Psalms 96:9
Worship the LORD in holy splendor;
      tremble before him, all the earth.
Judges 7:20
So the three companies blew the trumpets and broke the jars, holding in their left hands the torches, and in their right hands the trumpets to blow; and they cried, “A sword for the LORD and for Gideon!”
Acts 3:16
“…And by faith in [Jesus’] name, his name itself has made this man strong, whom you see and know; and the faith that is through Jesus has given him this perfect health in the presence of all of you. … ” [Peter to the people who had witnessed the healing]
John 1:31
“…I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.” [John the Baptist, when he saw Jesus coming toward him]
III. Meditation
Gideon thought you wanted men to wield their swords in your cause—
which happened to be his cause, too. Is that the way to worship you?
Is that why people should tremble before you, for fear of the sword?
Gideon’s faith may have been misplaced, but at least it made him strong,
strong like the man whom Peter helped, the man restored to perfect health.
Sometimes we act in faith for what may be the “wrong” reason.
We pray you will use even our ignorance to serve your purpose.
Categories: CCbloggers
Surprises and Delights--August 03, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 12, 146, 36, 7
Judges 7:1-18
Acts 3:1-11
John 1:19-28
II. Selections
Psalm 36:8
They feast on the abundance of your house,
      and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
Judges 7:2
The LORD said to Gideon, “The troops with you are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hand. Israel would only take the credit away from me, saying, ‘My own hand has delivered me.’ … ”
Acts 3:5
And [the lame beggar] fixed his attention on [Peter and John], expecting to receive something from them.
John 1:25-27
[The priests and Levites] asked [John the Baptist], “Why then are you baptizing if you are neither the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” John answered them, “I baptize with water. Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal.”
III. Meditation
O God of surprises and delights, with you
things are never quite what we anticipated.
The lame beggar expected silver or gold;
instead he received strong feet and ankles.
John’s questioners expected him to boast; they heard
him testify to the coming of one far greater than he was.
Gideon hoped to overwhelm his opposition by the size of
his army; you won for him with a mere handful of troops.
Truly we feast on the abundance of your house;
surely we drink from the river of your delights.
I. Readings
Psalms 12, 146, 36, 7
Judges 7:1-18
Acts 3:1-11
John 1:19-28
II. Selections
Psalm 36:8
They feast on the abundance of your house,
      and you give them drink from the river of your delights.
Judges 7:2
The LORD said to Gideon, “The troops with you are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hand. Israel would only take the credit away from me, saying, ‘My own hand has delivered me.’ … ”
Acts 3:5
And [the lame beggar] fixed his attention on [Peter and John], expecting to receive something from them.
John 1:25-27
[The priests and Levites] asked [John the Baptist], “Why then are you baptizing if you are neither the Messiah, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” John answered them, “I baptize with water. Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal.”
III. Meditation
O God of surprises and delights, with you
things are never quite what we anticipated.
The lame beggar expected silver or gold;
instead he received strong feet and ankles.
John’s questioners expected him to boast; they heard
him testify to the coming of one far greater than he was.
Gideon hoped to overwhelm his opposition by the size of
his army; you won for him with a mere handful of troops.
Truly we feast on the abundance of your house;
surely we drink from the river of your delights.
Categories: CCbloggers
Power or Steadfast Love? --August 02, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 62, 145, 73, 9
Judges 6:25-40
Acts 2:37-47
John 1:1-18
II. Selections
Psalm 62:11-12a
Once God has spoken;
      twice have I heard this:
that power belongs to God,
      and steadfast love belongs to you, O LORD.
Judges 6:31, 36-37
But Joash said to all who were arrayed against him, “Will you contend for Baal? Or will you defend his cause? Whoever contends for him shall be put to death by morning. If he is a god, let him contend for himself, because his altar has been pulled down.” … Then Gideon said to God, “In order to see whether you will deliver Israel by my hand, as you have said, I am going to lay a fleece of wool on the threshing floor; if there is dew on the fleece alone, and it is dry on all the ground, then I shall know that you will deliver Israel by my hand, as you have said.”
Acts 2:37
Now when [the crowd] heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”
John 1:16
From [Christ’s] fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.
III. Meditation
Gideon questioned your power, as his
father had questioned the power of Baal.
Forgive us—we are more intent on testing
power than in experiencing steadfast love.
Yet from your fullness, revealed in Christ,
we have all received, grace upon grace.
O God, when we are cut to the heart—
when we wonder what we should do—
may your grace lead us to realize that your
steadfast love is fundamental to your power.
I. Readings
Psalms 62, 145, 73, 9
Judges 6:25-40
Acts 2:37-47
John 1:1-18
II. Selections
Psalm 62:11-12a
Once God has spoken;
      twice have I heard this:
that power belongs to God,
      and steadfast love belongs to you, O LORD.
Judges 6:31, 36-37
But Joash said to all who were arrayed against him, “Will you contend for Baal? Or will you defend his cause? Whoever contends for him shall be put to death by morning. If he is a god, let him contend for himself, because his altar has been pulled down.” … Then Gideon said to God, “In order to see whether you will deliver Israel by my hand, as you have said, I am going to lay a fleece of wool on the threshing floor; if there is dew on the fleece alone, and it is dry on all the ground, then I shall know that you will deliver Israel by my hand, as you have said.”
Acts 2:37
Now when [the crowd] heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?”
John 1:16
From [Christ’s] fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.
III. Meditation
Gideon questioned your power, as his
father had questioned the power of Baal.
Forgive us—we are more intent on testing
power than in experiencing steadfast love.
Yet from your fullness, revealed in Christ,
we have all received, grace upon grace.
O God, when we are cut to the heart—
when we wonder what we should do—
may your grace lead us to realize that your
steadfast love is fundamental to your power.
Categories: CCbloggers
Tie Up the Strong Man--August 01, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 108, 150, 66, 23
Judges 6:1-24
2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Mark 3:20-30
II. Selections
Psalms 23:1
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want.
Judges 6:13a
Gideon answered [the angel], “But sir, if the LORD is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all his wonderful deeds that our ancestors recounted to us…?”
2 Corinthians 9:10
He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.
Mark 3:27
But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his property without first tying up the strong man; then indeed the house can be plundered.
III. Meditation
O God, you are my shepherd; I shall not want.
Let me not fret when misfortune comes or ask
why you let this thing happen to me.
Save me from yearning for wonders of bye-gone days.
Grant me assurance that you will supply what I need,
and that you will increase the harvest of righteousness.
Enter into the strong man’s house and tie him up,
that I may be free to do your will.
I. Readings
Psalms 108, 150, 66, 23
Judges 6:1-24
2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Mark 3:20-30
II. Selections
Psalms 23:1
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want.
Judges 6:13a
Gideon answered [the angel], “But sir, if the LORD is with us, why then has all this happened to us? And where are all his wonderful deeds that our ancestors recounted to us…?”
2 Corinthians 9:10
He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.
Mark 3:27
But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his property without first tying up the strong man; then indeed the house can be plundered.
III. Meditation
O God, you are my shepherd; I shall not want.
Let me not fret when misfortune comes or ask
why you let this thing happen to me.
Save me from yearning for wonders of bye-gone days.
Grant me assurance that you will supply what I need,
and that you will increase the harvest of righteousness.
Enter into the strong man’s house and tie him up,
that I may be free to do your will.
Categories: CCbloggers
Why Tarry the Hoofbeats? --July 31, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 122, 149, 100, 63
Judges 5:19-31
Acts 2:22-36
Matthew 28:11-20
II. Selections
Psalm 63:1
O God, you are my God, I seek you,
      my soul thirsts for you;
my flesh faints for you,
      as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Judges 5:28
Out of the window she peered,
      the mother of Sisera gazed through the lattice:
“Why is his chariot so long in coming?
      Why tarry the hoofbeats of his chariots?”
Acts 2:36
Therefore let the entire house of Israel know with certainty that God has made him both Lord and Messiah, this Jesus whom you crucified.
Matthew 28:17
When [his eleven disciples] saw [the risen Jesus], they worshiped him; but some doubted.
III. Meditation
The mother of Sisera was in for a shock.
Her son was not merely late coming home,
not just tarrying; he would never return again.
As she waited for her son, so we wait for you.
Our soul thirsts for you, our flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
But you will come; we shall find you, worship you.
Sweep away our doubt, so all may know with certainty,
you have made the crucified Jesus both Lord and Messiah.
I. Readings
Psalms 122, 149, 100, 63
Judges 5:19-31
Acts 2:22-36
Matthew 28:11-20
II. Selections
Psalm 63:1
O God, you are my God, I seek you,
      my soul thirsts for you;
my flesh faints for you,
      as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
Judges 5:28
Out of the window she peered,
      the mother of Sisera gazed through the lattice:
“Why is his chariot so long in coming?
      Why tarry the hoofbeats of his chariots?”
Acts 2:36
Therefore let the entire house of Israel know with certainty that God has made him both Lord and Messiah, this Jesus whom you crucified.
Matthew 28:17
When [his eleven disciples] saw [the risen Jesus], they worshiped him; but some doubted.
III. Meditation
The mother of Sisera was in for a shock.
Her son was not merely late coming home,
not just tarrying; he would never return again.
As she waited for her son, so we wait for you.
Our soul thirsts for you, our flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
But you will come; we shall find you, worship you.
Sweep away our doubt, so all may know with certainty,
you have made the crucified Jesus both Lord and Messiah.
Categories: CCbloggers
When Our Soul Is Full of Troubles--July 30, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 88, 148, 6, 20
Judges 5:1-18
Acts 2:1-21
Matthew 28:1-10
II. Selections
Psalm 88:3
For my soul is full of troubles,
      and my life draws near to Sheol.
Judges 5:2
“When locks are long in Israel,
      when the people offer themselves willingly—
      bless the LORD! … ” [The Song of Deborah and Barak]
Acts 2:17
“…‘In the last days it will be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh,
      and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
and your young men shall see visions,
      and your old men shall dream dreams. …’ ”
[Peter, quoting Joel]
Matthew 28:5-6
But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. … ”
III. Meditation
When our soul is full of troubles
and our life draws near to Sheol,
recall to us your promises
and your saving acts;
then take away our fear,
that willingly we may
offer ourselves to you
and bless your name.
Pour out your Spirit upon us;
remind us we are not too old
to dream dreams, any more than
we are too young to see visions.
Forbid that we should look
for the living among the dead;
and teach us to worship you,
O Christ, our risen Lord.
I. Readings
Psalms 88, 148, 6, 20
Judges 5:1-18
Acts 2:1-21
Matthew 28:1-10
II. Selections
Psalm 88:3
For my soul is full of troubles,
      and my life draws near to Sheol.
Judges 5:2
“When locks are long in Israel,
      when the people offer themselves willingly—
      bless the LORD! … ” [The Song of Deborah and Barak]
Acts 2:17
“…‘In the last days it will be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh,
      and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
and your young men shall see visions,
      and your old men shall dream dreams. …’ ”
[Peter, quoting Joel]
Matthew 28:5-6
But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has been raised, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. … ”
III. Meditation
When our soul is full of troubles
and our life draws near to Sheol,
recall to us your promises
and your saving acts;
then take away our fear,
that willingly we may
offer ourselves to you
and bless your name.
Pour out your Spirit upon us;
remind us we are not too old
to dream dreams, any more than
we are too young to see visions.
Forbid that we should look
for the living among the dead;
and teach us to worship you,
O Christ, our risen Lord.
Categories: CCbloggers
First, More Assurances--July 29, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 143, 147:12-20, 81, 116
Judges 4:4-23
Acts 1:15-26
Matthew 27:55-66
II. Selections
Psalm 81:13
“…O that my people would listen to me,
      that Israel would walk in my ways! … ” [A Voice the psalmist had not known]
Judges 4:8
Barak said to [Deborah], “If you will go with me, I will go; but if you will not go with me, I will not go.”
Acts 1:21-22
“…So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection.” [Peter]
Matt. 27:59-60a
So Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn in the rock.
III. Meditation
Peter sought another witness to your mighty acts,
but no matter how many witnesses we hear, your
people do not listen to you or walk in your ways.
Like Barak before Deborah, we want more assurances
before we commit ourselves. Make us more like Joseph
of Arimathea, who boldly approached Pilate for the body
of the one just executed—executed for making bold claims.
I. Readings
Psalms 143, 147:12-20, 81, 116
Judges 4:4-23
Acts 1:15-26
Matthew 27:55-66
II. Selections
Psalm 81:13
“…O that my people would listen to me,
      that Israel would walk in my ways! … ” [A Voice the psalmist had not known]
Judges 4:8
Barak said to [Deborah], “If you will go with me, I will go; but if you will not go with me, I will not go.”
Acts 1:21-22
“…So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us to his resurrection.” [Peter]
Matt. 27:59-60a
So Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth and laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn in the rock.
III. Meditation
Peter sought another witness to your mighty acts,
but no matter how many witnesses we hear, your
people do not listen to you or walk in your ways.
Like Barak before Deborah, we want more assurances
before we commit ourselves. Make us more like Joseph
of Arimathea, who boldly approached Pilate for the body
of the one just executed—executed for making bold claims.
Categories: CCbloggers
When Darkness Comes--July 28, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 65, 147:1-11, 125, 91
Judges 3:12-30
Acts 1:1-14
Matthew 27:45-54
II. Selections
Psalm 65:5
By awesome deeds you answer us with deliverance,
      O God of our salvation;
You are the hope of all the ends of the earth
      and of the highest seas.
Judges 3:30
So Moab was subdued that day under the hand of Israel. And the land had rest eighty years.
Acts 1:4
While staying with [the apostles], [the risen Jesus] ordered them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait there for the promise of the Father.
Matthew 27:45
From noon on, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
III. Meditation
Come to us with your saving power; establish hope,
O God of our salvation, the hope of earth and sea,
When darkness comes over the whole land for us,
O deliver us with your awesome deeds, we pray.
Teach us to wait for what you have promised;
subdue your enemies, that the land may rest.
I. Readings
Psalms 65, 147:1-11, 125, 91
Judges 3:12-30
Acts 1:1-14
Matthew 27:45-54
II. Selections
Psalm 65:5
By awesome deeds you answer us with deliverance,
      O God of our salvation;
You are the hope of all the ends of the earth
      and of the highest seas.
Judges 3:30
So Moab was subdued that day under the hand of Israel. And the land had rest eighty years.
Acts 1:4
While staying with [the apostles], [the risen Jesus] ordered them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait there for the promise of the Father.
Matthew 27:45
From noon on, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
III. Meditation
Come to us with your saving power; establish hope,
O God of our salvation, the hope of earth and sea,
When darkness comes over the whole land for us,
O deliver us with your awesome deeds, we pray.
Teach us to wait for what you have promised;
subdue your enemies, that the land may rest.
Categories: CCbloggers
Triumph Over Enemies--July 27, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 54, 146, 28, 99
Judges 2:1-5, 11-23
Romans 16:17-27
Matthew 27:32-44
II. Selections
Psalm 54:7
For he has delivered me from every trouble,
      and my eye has looked in triumph on my enemies.
Judges 2:17b
[The Israelites] soon turned aside from the way in which their ancestors had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the LORD; they did not follow their example.
Romans 16:19
For while your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, I want you to be wise in what is good and guileless in what is evil.
Matthew 27:33-34
And when [the soldiers leading Jesus] came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull), they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it.
III. Meditation
You have delivered me from many troubles,
but I cannot say my eye has looked in triumph
on all my enemies—not on my selfishness or pride.
I am not wise in what is good, or guileless in what is evil.
I have not followed the way in which my ancestors walked—
who obeyed your commandments—or followed their examples.
Make me more like the one who did look in triumph on his enemies,
even though he is the very one they led captive to a place called Golgotha.
I. Readings
Psalms 54, 146, 28, 99
Judges 2:1-5, 11-23
Romans 16:17-27
Matthew 27:32-44
II. Selections
Psalm 54:7
For he has delivered me from every trouble,
      and my eye has looked in triumph on my enemies.
Judges 2:17b
[The Israelites] soon turned aside from the way in which their ancestors had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the LORD; they did not follow their example.
Romans 16:19
For while your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, I want you to be wise in what is good and guileless in what is evil.
Matthew 27:33-34
And when [the soldiers leading Jesus] came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull), they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it.
III. Meditation
You have delivered me from many troubles,
but I cannot say my eye has looked in triumph
on all my enemies—not on my selfishness or pride.
I am not wise in what is good, or guileless in what is evil.
I have not followed the way in which my ancestors walked—
who obeyed your commandments—or followed their examples.
Make me more like the one who did look in triumph on his enemies,
even though he is the very one they led captive to a place called Golgotha.
Categories: CCbloggers
Triumph Over Enemies
I. Readings
Psalms 54, 146, 28, 99
Judges 2:1-5, 11-23
Romans 16:17-27
Matthew 27:32-44
II. Selections
Psalm 54:7
For he has delivered me from every trouble,
      and my eye has looked in triumph on my enemies.
Judges 2:17b
[The Israelites] soon turned aside from the way in which their ancestors had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the LORD; they did not follow their example.
Romans 16:19
For while your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, I want you to be wise in what is good and guileless in what is evil.
Matthew 27:33-34
And when [the soldiers leading Jesus] came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull), they offered him wine to drink, mixed with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it.
III. Meditation
You have delivered me from many troubles,
but I cannot say my eye has looked in triumph
on all my enemies—not on my selfishness or pride.
I am not wise in what is good, or guileless in what is evil.
I have not followed the way in which my ancestors walked—
who obeyed your commandments—or followed their examples.
Make me more like the one who did look in triumph on his enemies,
even though he is the very one they led captive to a place called Golgotha.
Categories: CCbloggers
We Call on You--July 26, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 57, 145, 85, 47
Joshua 24:16-33
Romans 16:1-16
Matthew 27:24-31
II. Selections
Psalm 145:18
The Lord is near to all who call on him,
      to all who call on him in truth.
Joshua 24:22
Then Joshua said to the people, “You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen the LORD, to serve him.” And they said, “We are witnesses.”
Romans 16:1-2
I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church at Cenchreae, so that you may welcome her in the Lord as is fitting for the saints, and help her in whatever she may require from you, for she has been a benefactor of many and of myself as well.
Matthew 27:24
So when Pilate saw that he could do nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took some water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s [Jesus’] blood; see to it yourselves.”
III. Meditation
You are near to all who call on you—
to all who call on you in truth.
Pilate tried to declare his own innocence,
but he did not convince even himself.
We claim that we have chosen to serve you,
but we do not always act as if we have.
Make us more like Phoebe, commended by Paul
as a benefactor of many, including himself.
For we call on you to help us, in truth we call;
be near to us; strengthen us to do your will.
I. Readings
Psalms 57, 145, 85, 47
Joshua 24:16-33
Romans 16:1-16
Matthew 27:24-31
II. Selections
Psalm 145:18
The Lord is near to all who call on him,
      to all who call on him in truth.
Joshua 24:22
Then Joshua said to the people, “You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen the LORD, to serve him.” And they said, “We are witnesses.”
Romans 16:1-2
I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church at Cenchreae, so that you may welcome her in the Lord as is fitting for the saints, and help her in whatever she may require from you, for she has been a benefactor of many and of myself as well.
Matthew 27:24
So when Pilate saw that he could do nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took some water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this man’s [Jesus’] blood; see to it yourselves.”
III. Meditation
You are near to all who call on you—
to all who call on you in truth.
Pilate tried to declare his own innocence,
but he did not convince even himself.
We claim that we have chosen to serve you,
but we do not always act as if we have.
Make us more like Phoebe, commended by Paul
as a benefactor of many, including himself.
For we call on you to help us, in truth we call;
be near to us; strengthen us to do your will.
Categories: CCbloggers
Lands and Towns and Fruits--July 25, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 67, 150, 46, 93
Joshua 24:1-15
Acts 28:23-31
Mark 2:23-28
II. Selections
Psalm 67:1-2
May God be gracious to us and bless us,
      and make his face to shine upon us,
That your way may be known upon earth,
      your saving power among all nations.
Joshua 24:13
I gave you a land on which you had not labored, and towns that you had not built, and you live in them; you eat the fruit of vineyards and oliveyards that you did not plant.
Acts 28:24
Some were convinced by what he said, while others refused to believe.
Mark 2:24
The Pharisees said to [Jesus], “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath?”
III. Meditation
Loving and Gracious God,
You have given us land on which we have not labored;
we live in towns that we did not build; and we eat
the fruits of fields in which we have not worked.
In spite of your manifold mercies, too often we fail to accept
what you have done. Instead of being grateful, we bicker
over minute details that blind us to your goodness.
Convince us of the error of our ways. Be gracious to us and bless us,
and make your face shine upon us, that your way may be known
upon earth and your saving power among all nations.
I. Readings
Psalms 67, 150, 46, 93
Joshua 24:1-15
Acts 28:23-31
Mark 2:23-28
II. Selections
Psalm 67:1-2
May God be gracious to us and bless us,
      and make his face to shine upon us,
That your way may be known upon earth,
      your saving power among all nations.
Joshua 24:13
I gave you a land on which you had not labored, and towns that you had not built, and you live in them; you eat the fruit of vineyards and oliveyards that you did not plant.
Acts 28:24
Some were convinced by what he said, while others refused to believe.
Mark 2:24
The Pharisees said to [Jesus], “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath?”
III. Meditation
Loving and Gracious God,
You have given us land on which we have not labored;
we live in towns that we did not build; and we eat
the fruits of fields in which we have not worked.
In spite of your manifold mercies, too often we fail to accept
what you have done. Instead of being grateful, we bicker
over minute details that blind us to your goodness.
Convince us of the error of our ways. Be gracious to us and bless us,
and make your face shine upon us, that your way may be known
upon earth and your saving power among all nations.
Categories: CCbloggers
Lands and Towns and Fruits
I. Readings
Psalms 67, 150, 46, 93
Joshua 24:1-15
Acts 28:23-31
Mark 2:23-28
II. Selections
Psalm 67:1-2
May God be gracious to us and bless us,
      and make his face to shine upon us,
That your way may be known upon earth,
      your saving power among all nations.
Joshua 24:13
I gave you a land on which you had not labored, and towns that you had not built, and you live in them; you eat the fruit of vineyards and oliveyards that you did not plant.
Acts 28:24
Some were convinced by what he said, while others refused to believe.
Mark 2:24
The Pharisees said to [Jesus], “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath?”
III. Meditation
Loving and Gracious God,
You have given us land on which we have not labored;
we live in towns that we did not build; and we eat
the fruits of fields in which we have not worked.
In spite of your manifold mercies, too often we fail to accept
what you have done. Instead of being grateful, we bicker
over minute details that blind us to your goodness.
Convince us of the error of our ways. Be gracious to us and bless us,
and make your face shine upon us, that your way may be known
upon earth and your saving power among all nations.
Categories: CCbloggers
The Fullness of Your Blessing--July 24, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 56, 149, 118, 111
Joshua 23:1-16
Romans 15:25-33
Matthew 27:11-23
II. Selections
Psalm 56:2c-3
O Most High, when I am afraid,
      I put my trust in you.
Joshua 23:14
“…And now I am about to go the way of all the earth, and you know in your hearts and souls, all of you, that not one thing has failed of all the good things that the LORD your God promised concerning you; all have come to pass for you, not one of them has failed. … ” [Joshua to Israel]
Romans 15:29
…and I know that when I come to you, I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.
Matthew 27:12
But when [Jesus] was accused by the chief priests and elders, he did not answer.
III. Meditation: The Fullness of Your Blessing
Lord Jesus,
When you were accused, you did not answer—
already having spoken in the fullness of your life.
You trusted in God, and in God’s good promises;
we know in our hearts and souls, they do not fail.
As we share your story, make our trust like yours,
that we may speak in the fullness of your blessing.
I. Readings
Psalms 56, 149, 118, 111
Joshua 23:1-16
Romans 15:25-33
Matthew 27:11-23
II. Selections
Psalm 56:2c-3
O Most High, when I am afraid,
      I put my trust in you.
Joshua 23:14
“…And now I am about to go the way of all the earth, and you know in your hearts and souls, all of you, that not one thing has failed of all the good things that the LORD your God promised concerning you; all have come to pass for you, not one of them has failed. … ” [Joshua to Israel]
Romans 15:29
…and I know that when I come to you, I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.
Matthew 27:12
But when [Jesus] was accused by the chief priests and elders, he did not answer.
III. Meditation: The Fullness of Your Blessing
Lord Jesus,
When you were accused, you did not answer—
already having spoken in the fullness of your life.
You trusted in God, and in God’s good promises;
we know in our hearts and souls, they do not fail.
As we share your story, make our trust like yours,
that we may speak in the fullness of your blessing.
Categories: CCbloggers
Groaning All Day Long--July 23, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 130, 148, 32, 139
Joshua 9:22-10:15
Romans 15:14-24
Matthew 27:1-10
II. Selections
Psalm 32:3
While I kept silence, my body wasted away
      through my groaning all day long.
Joshua 9:10:13b
Is this not written in the Book of Jashar? The sun stopped in mid-heaven, and did not hurry to set for about a whole day.
Romans 15:14-15a
I myself feel confident about you, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to instruct one another. Nevertheless on some points I have written to you rather boldly by way of reminder…
Matthew 27:3
When Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he repented and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders.
III. Meditation
Some sins may be regretted without repenting of them.
Then the body wastes away through groaning all day long.
Even when we repent, we usually cannot undo the harm.
Thirty pieces of silver were returned, but Christ was killed.
The clock does not turn back; the sun traverses the sky as before.
We may need reminders; nevertheless, the past must be left behind.
I. Readings
Psalms 130, 148, 32, 139
Joshua 9:22-10:15
Romans 15:14-24
Matthew 27:1-10
II. Selections
Psalm 32:3
While I kept silence, my body wasted away
      through my groaning all day long.
Joshua 9:10:13b
Is this not written in the Book of Jashar? The sun stopped in mid-heaven, and did not hurry to set for about a whole day.
Romans 15:14-15a
I myself feel confident about you, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to instruct one another. Nevertheless on some points I have written to you rather boldly by way of reminder…
Matthew 27:3
When Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he repented and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders.
III. Meditation
Some sins may be regretted without repenting of them.
Then the body wastes away through groaning all day long.
Even when we repent, we usually cannot undo the harm.
Thirty pieces of silver were returned, but Christ was killed.
The clock does not turn back; the sun traverses the sky as before.
We may need reminders; nevertheless, the past must be left behind.
Categories: CCbloggers
Self Deceit--July 22, 2010
I. Readings
Psalms 36, 147:12-20, 80, 27
Joshua 9:3-21
Romans 15:1-13
Matthew 26:69-75
II. Selections
Psalm 36:2
For they flatter themselves in their own eyes
      that their iniquity cannot be found out and hated.
Joshua 9:16
But when three days had passed after [Joshua and the Israelites] had made a treaty with [the inhabitants of Gibeon], they heard that they were their neighbors and were living among them.
Romans 15:1
We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.
Matthew 26:75c
And [Peter] went out and wept bitterly.
III. Meditation
Sometimes we are deceived by the neighbors who
live among us; more often we deceive ourselves.
Why should we be reluctant to put up with the failings
of the weak, as if we have no weaknesses of our own?
When I flatter myself that my failings cannot be found out,
and my hypocrisy is uncovered, I feel like bitter weeping.
Categories: CCbloggers
Jesus Was Silent--July 21, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 15, 147:1-11, 48, 4
Joshua 8:30-35
Romans 14:13-23
Matthew 26:57-68
II. Selections
Psalms 4:8
I will both lie down and sleep in peace;
      for you alone, O LORD, make me lie down in safety.
Joshua 8:35
There was not a word of all that Moses commanded that Joshua did not read before all the assembly of Israel, and the women, and the little ones, and the aliens who resided among them.
Romans 14:19
Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
Matthew 26:63a
But Jesus was silent.
III. Meditation
O ever watchful God, Jesus was silent before his accusers.
Can I not then be silent about the small things that disturb me?
It is good to make others aware of your word, no doubt;
but not as reprimand or judgment over small infractions.
Help us pursue what makes for peace and mutual upbuilding;
and at the end of the day let us lie down and sleep in peace,
secure in the safety that you provide, O watchful and caring God.
I. Readings
Psalms 15, 147:1-11, 48, 4
Joshua 8:30-35
Romans 14:13-23
Matthew 26:57-68
II. Selections
Psalms 4:8
I will both lie down and sleep in peace;
      for you alone, O LORD, make me lie down in safety.
Joshua 8:35
There was not a word of all that Moses commanded that Joshua did not read before all the assembly of Israel, and the women, and the little ones, and the aliens who resided among them.
Romans 14:19
Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
Matthew 26:63a
But Jesus was silent.
III. Meditation
O ever watchful God, Jesus was silent before his accusers.
Can I not then be silent about the small things that disturb me?
It is good to make others aware of your word, no doubt;
but not as reprimand or judgment over small infractions.
Help us pursue what makes for peace and mutual upbuilding;
and at the end of the day let us lie down and sleep in peace,
secure in the safety that you provide, O watchful and caring God.
Categories: CCbloggers
Undivided Attention, Undivided Hearts--July 20, 2010
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 123, 146, 30, 86
Joshua 8:1-22
Romans 14:1-12
Matthew 26:47-56
II. Selections
Psalm 86:11
Teach me your way, O LORD,
      that I may walk in your truth;
      give me an undivided heart to revere your name.
Joshua 8:17
There was not a man left in Ai or Bethel who did not go out after Israel; they left the city open, and pursued Israel.
Romans 14:8
If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.
Matthew 26:55-56
At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as though I were a bandit? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not arrest me. But all this has taken place, so that the scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.
III. Meditation: Undivided Attention, Undivided Hearts
Teach us your way, God, that we may walk in your truth;
give us an undivided heart, that we may revere your name.
The people of Ai were defeated because they were ambushed.
Their attention was directed to the wrong place—hearts divided.
At your arrest, the hearts of the disciples were divided; devoted
to you, but concerned for their own safety, they deserted and fled.
Focus our attention on you; make us single-minded, hearts undivided—
whether we live or whether we die, let it be to you, for we are yours.
I. Readings
Psalms 123, 146, 30, 86
Joshua 8:1-22
Romans 14:1-12
Matthew 26:47-56
II. Selections
Psalm 86:11
Teach me your way, O LORD,
      that I may walk in your truth;
      give me an undivided heart to revere your name.
Joshua 8:17
There was not a man left in Ai or Bethel who did not go out after Israel; they left the city open, and pursued Israel.
Romans 14:8
If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.
Matthew 26:55-56
At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as though I were a bandit? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not arrest me. But all this has taken place, so that the scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.
III. Meditation: Undivided Attention, Undivided Hearts
Teach us your way, God, that we may walk in your truth;
give us an undivided heart, that we may revere your name.
The people of Ai were defeated because they were ambushed.
Their attention was directed to the wrong place—hearts divided.
At your arrest, the hearts of the disciples were divided; devoted
to you, but concerned for their own safety, they deserted and fled.
Focus our attention on you; make us single-minded, hearts undivided—
whether we live or whether we die, let it be to you, for we are yours.
Categories: CCbloggers
Undivided Attention, Undivided Hearts
I. Readings
Psalms 123, 146, 30, 86
Joshua 8:1-22
Romans 14:1-12
Matthew 26:47-56
II. Selections
Psalm 86:11
Teach me your way, O LORD,
      that I may walk in your truth;
      give me an undivided heart to revere your name.
Joshua 8:17
There was not a man left in Ai or Bethel who did not go out after Israel; they left the city open, and pursued Israel.
Romans 14:8
If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.
Matthew 26:55-56
At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, “Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as though I were a bandit? Day after day I sat in the temple teaching, and you did not arrest me. But all this has taken place, so that the scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled.” Then all the disciples deserted him and fled.
III. Meditation: Undivided Attention, Undivided Hearts
Teach us your way, God, that we may walk in your truth;
give us an undivided heart, that we may revere your name.
The people of Ai were defeated because they were ambushed.
Their attention was directed to the wrong place—hearts divided.
At your arrest, the hearts of the disciples were divided; devoted
to you, but concerned for their own safety, they deserted and fled.
Focus our attention on you; make us single-minded, hearts undivided—
whether we live or whether we die, let it be to you, for we are yours.
Categories: CCbloggers
Nearer Than We Think--July 19, 2009
Welcome. In case you arrived here via CC Blogs, be aware that the link has brought you to an older posting. For the meditation on TODAY’S readings from the Daily Lectionary, please go to Archives in the sidebar and select the current date.
I. Readings
Psalms 135, 145, 97, 112
Joshua 7:1-13
Romans 13:8-14
Matthew 26:36-46
II. Selections
Psalm 112:1
Praise the LORD!
      Happy are those who fear the LORD,
      who greatly delight in his commandments.
Joshua 7:10
The LORD said to Joshua, “Stand up! Why have you fallen upon your face? … ”
Romans 13:11-12a
Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near.
Matthew 26:45-46
Then [Jesus] came to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? See, the hour is at hand, and the son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.”
III. Meditation
Gracious God, happy are those who fear you,
who greatly delight in your commandments.
The night is far gone, the day is near, the hour is at hand.
Wake us from our sleep, that we may stand up before you,
for salvation is nearer than we think.
We pray in the name of Jesus, who did not sleep or take
his rest on the night he was betrayed.
I. Readings
Psalms 135, 145, 97, 112
Joshua 7:1-13
Romans 13:8-14
Matthew 26:36-46
II. Selections
Psalm 112:1
Praise the LORD!
      Happy are those who fear the LORD,
      who greatly delight in his commandments.
Joshua 7:10
The LORD said to Joshua, “Stand up! Why have you fallen upon your face? … ”
Romans 13:11-12a
Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near.
Matthew 26:45-46
Then [Jesus] came to the disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? See, the hour is at hand, and the son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.”
III. Meditation
Gracious God, happy are those who fear you,
who greatly delight in your commandments.
The night is far gone, the day is near, the hour is at hand.
Wake us from our sleep, that we may stand up before you,
for salvation is nearer than we think.
We pray in the name of Jesus, who did not sleep or take
his rest on the night he was betrayed.
Categories: CCbloggers