THIS WEEK’S SCRIPTURES

Monday, Nov 17: Psalm 76; Isaiah 60:17-22; Ephesians 4:25-5:2;

Tuesday, Nov 18: Psalm 76; Isaiah 66:1-13; 1 Corinthians 10:23-11:1;

Wednesday, Nov 19: Psalm 76; Isaiah 66:14-24; Matthew 23:37-24:14;

Thursday, Nov 20: Luke 1:68-79; Jeremiah 21:1-14; Hebrews 9:23-28;

Friday, Nov 21: Luke 1:68-79; Jeremiah 22:1-17; 1 Peter 1:3-9;

Saturday, Nov 22: Luke 1:68-79; Jeremiah 22:18-30; Luke 18:15-17;



QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION

In a world that values busyness above all else, how do we, in a healthy and faithful way, hold Paul’s demand to work well with the command for Sabbath? “Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right” (2 Thess. 3:13). Even Paul realizes that it can become tedious to work for justice. What are ways that we might stay energized in a seemingly impossible task? Jesus’ words in Luke are particularly challenging; he assures his disciples and believers that they will be persecuted, handed over, betrayed, and hated (Luke 21:12–19). Where is there good news in a text filled with such scary assurances?

MORNING PRAYER

God of comfort, we give thanks for the dawning of a new day. Even though we have turned from you you have reached for us. Even though we have been afraid you have been our strength and our might. May we draw life-giving water with joy this day, giving thanks for the multitude of gifts and challenges we face, singing praises to the Lord throughout all the earth. Amen.

EVENING PRAYER

God of salvation, we are reminded of the myriad of ways you have strengthened and supported us today. In the midst of challenge and promise you reach for us. You create a new heaven and a new earth and call us to participate in the renewing of hearts and minds. Be with us and those we love this night. Be with your beloved whose fear prevails over your comfort, and bring us through this night to the dawning of a new day. Amen.