November 7, 2021, Lectionary

All they knew at that time was that Ruth and Naomi had a boy to take care of them in their old age. The village women named him Obed and his mother went about her daily work to raise him. None of them ever knew how many outcast women her story would bless. Ruth 3:1-5; 4:14-17

We will guard the children like the jewels they are, arrows in a quiver, the future standing before us. They are the brilliant ones who will stand in the gaps for God in this world. Psalm 127

Jesus was offered to bear our sins, now appears in the presence of God for us, and will appear a second time to save us. Is not this the most glorious news? This is our message! Hebrews 9:24-28

Jesus' commendation of the widow's offering could teach us that it is better to give by percentage of blessing rather than by need appeal or by publicity opportunity. Mark 12:38-44

Thoughts about Listening

Rejoice with those who rejoice. That means also listening to them. Ruth 3:1-5; 4:14-17

Listening to a child is one of the most important things you and I can do in this world. Psalm 127

I actually did have childhood fancies of being rescued, but the story never went beyond the rescue part. Now I know that even after a rescue, I would need a good listener. Hebrews 9:24-28

Generous listening can be given as a gift, donation, or offering, as a percentage of our time or or blessings, or as a healing presence in the world. Mark 12:38-44