July 22, 2018, Lectionary
The Lord has done great things for us, while we were thinking about doing great things for God. 2 Samuel 7:1-14
"The Lord has promised good to me, His word my hope secures. He will my shield and portion be, as long as life endures." The promises of God to David. Psalm 89:20-37
Without Jesus, I wouldn't have the Bible or know the heritage that Israel brought to the world, much less be a part of it. Ephesians 2:11-22
Whoever touched him was healed! I wonder were the old people healed of arthritis? I wonder did anyone healed there continue in risky health habits? What if just everyone who touched him received, regardless of any kind of status in life? Mark 6:30-34, 53-56
Thoughts about Listening
Think of the last time you made a good and successful handoff to a successor. List the steps and attitudes that made it work. 2 Samuel 7:1-14
I can choose which to listen to, obstacles and impossibilities or promise and hope. Psalm 89:20-37
We have the incentive, ability, and authority to bridge our differences and live together with respect toward each other. Ephesians 2:11-22
Compassion is my goal to give, and my delight to receive. But it's harder to do when tired, angry, or hungry. Mark 6:30-34, 53-56
Bible Reading Group Homework
1. Tell someone who will listen about a powerful promise you believe.
2. Read or listen to 2 Samuel 7:1-14. Name the characters and what each might be feeling at different points in this story. Summarize in your own words what exactly was the promise of God to David?
3. Read or listen to Psalm 89:20-37. Sing together the verse of “Amazing Grace” that goes with this: “The Lord has promised good to me, His word my hope secures. He will my shield and portion be, as long as life endures.”
4. Read or listen to Ephesians 2:11-22. Consider and discuss the things you wouldn’t know or be able to do if Jesus hadn’t come into the world, supposing the world could still exist.
5. Read or listen to Mark 6:30-34, 53-56. Try to imagine the joy of this time, the community built by the joy across all class and status. Take that imaginary picture with you today in dealing with your people and communities.