July 14, 2019, Lectionary

Amos was assigned to give a most unpopular message from God: The nation would fall. What unpopular message might God be trying to tell me today? Amos 7:7-17

God holds judgment amidst all our false gods, and God's judgment favors those with no connections or family, those who are lowly and destitute, weak and needy. "Rise up, O God, judge the earth; for all the nations belong to you!" Psalm 82

When you crave to pray better for someone you love, or when you need to be reminded to intercede, or when you need someone to pray for you, read Paul's prayer for the Colossians. Colossians 1:1-14

I have always read it that the lawyer wished to justify his question, but the Bible says he wished to justify himself. I wonder if his quote from Scripture roused his conscience. I wonder if Jesus' parable hit exactly the point of this man's disturbed conscience. Luke 10:25-37

Thoughts about Listening

It is not always possible to be the bearer of bad news in a way that doesn't raise defenses, but it's worth a try. Amos 7:7-17

Befriend the lonely, the grieving, the poor, and those in need. A lesson from my mother. Psalm 82

Pick someone you love. Then list many things you want for that person. Use or add rich, abundant and beautiful words. Keep enhancing the picture until you tell that person a piece of it, either in a letter or in person. Colossians 1:1-14

Think of the last time you were given unlimited budget for a good cause. Whom did you tell? Luke 10:25-37