January 26, 2020, Lectionary

Because of Jesus, Galilee would be blessed, light would come in darkness, both numbers and joy would increase, and oppression would be broken. Grant these again today, O Lord. Isaiah 9:1-4

This psalm is filled with praise and longing for God using delightful images and metaphors. It works well to pray this psalm every day. Psalm 27:1, 4-9

Only the "foolish" message about the cross is powerful enough to demonstrate what it means to "be in agreement . . . united in the same mind and the same purpose." 1 Corinthians 1:10-18

This is what happened after Jesus' temptations, moving on into blessed ministry and mission. Matthew 4:12-23

Since Israel's purpose was to tell of God to all nations (Genesis 12:1-3; 1 Kings 8:60-61), and I am part of those nations, I think I should be telling my gratitude for the legacy left us by Israel in the Old Testament.

Thoughts about Listening

I'll be on the lookout today for one thing I can do to increase someone's joy and reduce someone's oppression. Isaiah 9:1-4

My coach said, "You're going into the meeting with three things; which is most important?" Haha. That's how she got me down to one thing! Psalm 27:1, 4-9

Pondering: Am I a divider or a uniter? Do I highlight ways we're different or ways we're similar? 1 Corinthians 1:10-18

Remember a time when you were tempted to do something, or take an attitude, in retaliation, you didn't, and some great new opportunity opened up for you. Matthew 4:12-23