November 14, 2021, Lectionary

I think it's interesting that Hannah didn't pray for her bully adversary to be stopped from tormenting her. Instead she prayed for change in herself. At this is how the story is recorded. 1 Samuel 1:4-20

In Hannah's second prayer she pictures a "great reset" where arrogant words and physical force by humans will not prevail, but Jehovah judges fairly. Her prayer is a caution against arrogance and a hope for the bullied.  1 Samuel 2:1-10

I have seen it happen where one person starts a loving action and tells the story and then others join in, and the project grows. Perhaps this is one way to provoke one another to love and good deeds. Hebrews 10:11-25

Deception, wars, national hostilities, earthquakes, and famines. These are but the beginning of sorrows. Read to the end of the chapter to learn the middle and end, too. Jesus will come!  Mark 13:1-8

Thoughts about Listening

May I have grace to listen well to bullies when I have to and also grace to leave when I need to. 1 Samuel 1:4-20

In the height of disaster and loss, people sometimes say things hard to listen to. We need people who will take on the challenge and listen anyway. 1 Samuel 2:1-10

Giving the gift of generous listening is one of the most loving things to do in this world. Hebrews 10:11-25

We are blessed to live in a time and place where gift listening can still be given generously. Mark 13:1-8