December 10, 2017, Lectionary

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The image is striking for me today: The day of Jesus' coming will be a gentle day for those of His flock. Isaiah 40:1-11

God will speak peace to His people. Supposed or expected peace from any other quarter will betray the people. Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13

The age-old, classic question that points to things bigger than ourselves, bigger than our world: What manner of persons ought we to be? 2 Peter 3:8-15

I'm pondering today, what can a human do to prepare the way of the Lord and make the Lord's paths straight. Mark 1:1-8

Thoughts about Listening

Be the bearer of good news today, tidings of comfort and joy. Isaiah 40:1-11

It's always a puzzle: Which justice will lead to peace and which justice will increase resentments. Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13

Surely it seems not wise to push the envelope to be late for a second, grace, deadline! 2 Peter 3:8-15

Mixing obvious competence with humility is easiest to do if there is someone in the picture who far outstrips all in both. Mark 1:1-8

Bible Reading Group Homework

1.    When you think of God’s justice or judgment, is it a comforting thought or a frightening thought for you?

2.    Read or listen to Isaiah 40:1-11. The announcement is of a message of comfort. Find and discuss the gentle images in this reading. Tell of your experience with the gentleness of God.

3.    Read or listen to Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13. What is it that God will speak to God’s people? How easily or frequently do justice and peace appear at the same time?

4.    Read or listen to 2 Peter 3:8-15. Discuss the ways Peter describes the end of things on earth as we know them. Can God’s people be a people of peace and comfort in the midst?

5.    Read or listen to Mark 1:1-8. Mark used Isaiah 40 to introduce John’s preparatory preaching about Jesus. So what, in this reading is the way to prepare the way for this comfort and peace? What sort of feelings does it produce in you to see and hear a leader say “I am not worthy”?

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1. Cuando piensa en la justicia o el juicio de Dios, ¿Es un pensamiento reconfortante o atemorizante para usted?

2. Leer o escuchar Isaías 40: 1-11. El anuncio es un mensaje de confort. Encuentre y analize en esta lectura las imágenes gentiles.. Comparta su experiencia con la gentileza de Dios.

3. Leer o escuchar el Salmo 85: 1-2, 8-13. ¿Qué es lo que Dios le hablará al pueblo de Dios? ¿Con qué frecuencia o qué tan fácil aparecen la justicia y la paz al mismo tiempo?

4. Leer  o escuchar  2 Pedro 3: 8-15. Discuta las formas en que Pedro describe el fin de las cosas en la tierra tal como las conocemos. ¿Puede el pueblo de Dios ser un pueblo de paz y consuelo en medio?

5. Leer o escuchar Marcos 1: 1-8. Marcos usó Isaías 40 para presentar la predicación preparatoria de Juan acerca de Jesús. ¿Entonces, esta lectura, es la manera de preparar el camino para esta comodidad y paz? ¿Qué tipo de sentimientos produce en usted el ver y escuchar a un líder decir: "No soy digno"?