Members phkrause Posted October 17, 2010 Author Members Posted October 17, 2010 October 16, 2010 Amos 5:1-27 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Amos 5:1-27: Amos, a shepherd farmer from Judah, is sent to Israel to preach the Lord's message of judgment. He declares God's disgust with Israel's sacrifices and festivals in light of their injustice and oppression of the poor. Today’s Scripture: Amos 5:14 Make it your aim to do what is right, not what is evil, so that you may live. Then the LORD God Almighty really will be with you, as you claim he is. Today’s Reading 1Listen, people of Israel, to this funeral song which I sing over you: 2Virgin Israel has fallen, Never to rise again! She lies abandoned on the ground, And no one helps her up. 3The Sovereign LORD says, “A city in Israel sends out a thousand soldiers, but only a hundred return; another city sends out a hundred, but only ten come back.” 4The LORD says to the people of Israel, Come to me, and you will live. 5Do not go to Beersheba to worship. Do not try to find me at Bethel—Bethel will come to nothing. Do not go to Gilgal—her people are doomed to exile. ” 6Go to the LORD, and you will live. If you do not go, he will sweep down like fire on the people of Israel. The fire will burn up the people of Bethel, and no one will be able to put it out. 7You are doomed, you that twist justice and cheat people out of their rights! 8The LORD made the stars, the Pleiades and Orion. He turns darkness into daylight and day into night. He calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out on the earth. His name is the LORD. 9He brings destruction on the mighty and their strongholds. 10You people hate anyone who challenges injustice and speaks the whole truth in court. 11You have oppressed the poor and robbed them of their grain. And so you will not live in the fine stone houses you build or drink wine from the beautiful vineyards you plant. 12I know how terrible your sins are and how many crimes you have committed. You persecute good people, take bribes, and prevent the poor from getting justice in the courts. 13And so, keeping quiet in such evil times is the smart thing to do! 14Make it your aim to do what is right, not what is evil, so that you may live. Then the LORD God Almighty really will be with you, as you claim he is. 15Hate what is evil, love what is right, and see that justice prevails in the courts. Perhaps the LORD will be merciful to the people of this nation who are still left alive. 16And so the Sovereign LORD Almighty says, “There will be wailing and cries of sorrow in the city streets. Even farmers will be called to mourn the dead along with those who are paid to mourn. 17There will be wailing in all the vineyards. All this will take place because I am coming to punish you. ” The LORD has spoken. 18How terrible it will be for you who long for the day of the LORD! What good will that day do you? For you it will be a day of darkness and not of light. 19It will be like someone who runs from a lion and meets a bear! Or like someone who comes home and puts his hand on the wall—only to be bitten by a snake! 20The day of the LORD will bring darkness and not light; it will be a day of gloom, without any brightness. 21The LORD says, “I hate your religious festivals; I cannot stand them! 22When you bring me burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them; I will not accept the animals you have fattened to bring me as offerings. 23Stop your noisy songs; I do not want to listen to your harps. 24Instead, let justice flow like a stream, and righteousness like a river that never goes dry. 25People of Israel, I did not demand sacrifices and offerings during those forty years that I led you through the desert. 26But now, because you have worshiped images of Sakkuth, your king god, and of Kaiwan, your star god, you will have to carry those images 27when I take you into exile in a land beyond Damascus, ” says the LORD, whose name is Almighty God. Reflect This passage begins with the prophet Amos singing a funeral song. What has caused Amos to mourn? What is the prophet admonishing the people to do? Reread 5:10-13. What social injustices are condemned? Why is it an evil time? What does the Lord require? Is this message relevant for the times in which we live? Why or why not? Pray Loving God, I want to make it my aim to do what is right, not what is evil, so that I may live in you. Help me to hate what is evil, love what is right, and see that justice prevails. Amen. Prayer Concern Public defenders Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 17, 2010 Author Members Posted October 17, 2010 October 17, 2010 Micah 1:1-16 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Micah 1:1-16: This week, we will read Micah. In Hebrew, "Micah" means, "who is like the Lord." This phrase is more of an exclamation than a question, for in this book, the prophet Micah proclaims that no one is as powerful as the Lord God of Israel. In today's passage, Micah announces God's judgment upon Israel and Judah. Today’s Scripture: Micah 1:2 Hear this, all you nations; listen to this, all who live on earth! The Sovereign LORD will testify against you. Listen! He speaks from his heavenly temple. Today’s Reading 1During the time that Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah, the LORD gave this message to Micah, who was from the town of Moresheth. The LORD revealed to Micah all these things about Samaria and Jerusalem. 2Hear this, all you nations; listen to this, all who live on earth! The Sovereign LORD will testify against you. Listen! He speaks from his heavenly temple. 3The LORD is coming from his holy place; he will come down and walk on the tops of the mountains. 4Then the mountains will melt under him like wax in a fire; they will pour down into the valleys like water pouring down a hill. 5All this will happen because the people of Israel have sinned and rebelled against God. Who is to blame for Israel's rebellion? Samaria, the capital city itself Who is guilty of idolatry in Judah? Jerusalem itself 6So the LORD says, “I will make Samaria a pile of ruins in the open country, a place for planting grapevines. I will pour the rubble of the city down into the valley, and will lay bare the city's foundations. 7All its precious idols will be smashed to pieces, everything given to its temple prostitutes will be destroyed by fire, and all its images will become a desolate heap. Samaria acquired these things for its fertility rites, and now her enemies will carry them off for temple prostitutes elsewhere. ” 8Then Micah said, “Because of this I will mourn and lament. To show my sorrow, I will walk around barefoot and naked. I will howl like a jackal and wail like an ostrich. 9Samaria's wounds cannot be healed, and Judah is about to suffer in the same way; destruction has reached the gates of Jerusalem itself, where my people live. ” 10Don't tell our enemies in Gath about our defeat; don't let them see you weeping. People of Beth Leaphrah, show your despair by rolling in the dust! 11You people of Shaphir, go into exile, naked and ashamed. Those who live in Zaanan do not dare to come out of their city. When you hear the people of Bethezel mourn, you will know that there is no refuge there. 12The people of Maroth anxiously wait for relief, because the LORD has brought disaster close to Jerusalem. 13You that live in Lachish, hitch the horses to the chariots. You imitated the sins of Israel and so caused Jerusalem to sin. 14And now, people of Judah, say good-bye to the town of Moresheth Gath. The kings of Israel will get no help from the town of Achzib. 15People of Mareshah, the LORD will hand you over to an enemy, who is going to capture your town. The leaders of Israel will go and hide in the cave at Adullam. 16People of Judah, cut off your hair in mourning for the children you love. Make yourselves as bald as vultures, because your children will be taken away from you into exile. Reflect At pagan temples, people solicited prostitutes as a way of worshiping idols such as Baal and Ashera. The money earned was used to support the pagan religion. The worship of Canaanite gods and goddesses had become a big problem for Israel. What gets in the way of worshipping God for you? How do you deal with roadblocks on your faith journey? Pray Great and gracious God, today I lift up the things that get in the way of my worship of you. Destroy these roadblocks on my faith journey so that I may live in faith and wisdom. Amen. Prayer Concern Women who are abused Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 18, 2010 Author Members Posted October 18, 2010 October 18, 2010 Micah 2:1-13 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Micah 2:1-13: Micah preaches an unpopular message. In today's passage, he accuses leaders and rich people of treating the poor unjustly, cheating families out of homes and land. He proclaims that those who survive the days of judgment will once again be gathered together as God's people. Today’s Scripture: Micah 2:12 "But I will gather you together, all you people of Israel that are left. I will bring you together like sheep returning to the fold. Like a pasture full of sheep, your land will once again be filled with many people." Today’s Reading 1How terrible it will be for those who lie awake and plan evil! When morning comes, as soon as they have the chance, they do the evil they planned. 2When they want fields, they seize them; when they want houses, they take them. No one's family or property is safe. 3And so the LORD says, “I am planning to bring disaster on you, and you will not be able to escape it. You are going to find yourselves in trouble, and then you will not walk so proudly any more. 4When that time comes, people will use the story about you as an example of disaster, and they will sing this song of despair about your experience: We are completely ruined! The LORD has taken our land away And given it to those who took us captive.” 5So then, when the time comes for the land to be given back to the LORD's people, there will be no share for any of you. 6The people preach at me and say, “Don't preach at us. Don't preach about all that. God is not going to disgrace us. 7Do you think the people of Israel are under a curse? Has the LORD lost his patience? Would he really do such things? Doesn't he speak kindly to those who do right? ” 8The LORD replies, “You attack my people like enemies. Men return from battle, thinking they are safe at home, but there you are, waiting to steal the coats off their backs. 9You drive the women of my people out of the homes they love, and you have robbed their children of my blessings forever. 10Get up and go; there is no safety here any more. Your sins have doomed this place to destruction. 11These people want the kind of prophet who goes around full of lies and deceit and says, “I prophesy that wine and liquor will flow for you.” 12“But I will gather you together, all you people of Israel that are left. I will bring you together like sheep returning to the fold. Like a pasture full of sheep, your land will once again be filled with many people.” 13God will open the way for them and lead them out of exile. They will break out of the city gates and go free. Their king, the LORD himself, will lead them out. Reflect In ancient Israel, land ownership rights were to be passed on within families. But some rich people in Israel and Judah were buying up the rights to land or stealing it outright, making many people homeless with little means of making a living. How does homelessness affect your community? What do you think are the best ways to help the homeless? Pray Lord, you provide the earth as a home for your people. Yet many lack the shelter they need. Grant us the creativity and wisdom we need to create ways of offering comfortable shelter for all in need. Amen. Prayer Concern The homeless Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 20, 2010 Author Members Posted October 20, 2010 October 19, 2010 Micah 3:1-12 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Micah 3:1-12: The rulers of Israel were supposed to provide justice on the basis of God's law, but they treated people unjustly and broke God's law in many other ways. The prophets were supposed to remind the people of how God wanted them to live. Some, however, accepted money for going through the motions of religious duties while refusing to speak the truth. Today’s Scripture: Micah 3:8 But as for me, the LORD fills me with his spirit and power, and gives me a sense of justice and the courage to tell the people of Israel what their sins are. Today’s Reading 1Listen, you rulers of Israel! You are supposed to be concerned about justice, 2yet you hate what is good and you love what is evil. You skin my people alive and tear the flesh off their bones. 3You eat my people up. You strip off their skin, break their bones, and chop them up like meat for the pot. 4The time is coming when you will cry out to the LORD, but he will not answer you. He will not listen to your prayers, for you have done evil. 5My people are deceived by prophets who promise peace to those who pay them, but threaten war for those who don't. To these prophets the LORD says, 6“Prophets, your day is almost over; the sun is going down on you. Because you mislead my people, you will have no more prophetic visions, and you will not be able to predict anything.” 7Those who predict the future will be disgraced by their failure. They will all be humiliated because God does not answer them. 8But as for me, the LORD fills me with his spirit and power, and gives me a sense of justice and the courage to tell the people of Israel what their sins are. 9Listen to me, you rulers of Israel, you that hate justice and turn right into wrong. 10You are building God's city, Jerusalem, on a foundation of murder and injustice. 11The city's rulers govern for bribes, the priests interpret the Law for pay, the prophets give their revelations for money—and they all claim that the LORD is with them. “No harm will come to us,” they say. The LORD is with us. ” 12And so, because of you, Zion will be plowed like a field, Jerusalem will become a pile of ruins, and the Temple hill will become a forest. Reflect Reread 3:1-2. Why do you think the rulers preferred to do evil even though they knew right from wrong? What does Micah say to assure the people that, in contrast to the lying prophets, his message is true? What is the prophet's message? Pray Gracious God, we cannot even begin to appreciate the fullness of your patience and mercy toward us. We run to everything and everyone but you for security. Forgive us, Lord. Awaken us to your love. Give us the courage to both speak and heed your truth. Amen. Prayer Concern Those seeking guidance Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 21, 2010 Author Members Posted October 21, 2010 October 20, 2010 Micah 4:1-13 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Micah 4:1-13: Micah promises that in the future, people of all nations will worship the Lord in Jerusalem. Peace will come when they live according to God's law. God's people will return home to Judah-even those who are outcasts. After a time of punishment, they will rebuild the city and the temple. Today’s Scripture: Micah 4:7 They are crippled and far from home, but I will make a new beginning with those who are left, and they will become a great nation. I will rule over them on Mount Zion from that time on and forever. Today’s Reading 1In days to come the mountain where the Temple stands will be the highest one of all, towering above all the hills. Many nations will come streaming to it, 2and their people will say, “Let us go up the hill of the LORD, to the Temple of Israel's God. He will teach us what he wants us to do; we will walk in the paths he has chosen. For the LORD's teaching comes from Jerusalem; from Zion he speaks to his people. ” 3He will settle disputes among the nations, among the great powers near and far. They will hammer their swords into plows and their spears into pruning knives. Nations will never again go to war, never prepare for battle again. 4Everyone will live in peace among their own vineyards and fig trees, and no one will make them afraid. The LORD Almighty has promised this. 5Each nation worships and obeys its own god, but we will worship and obey the LORD our God forever and ever. 6“The time is coming,” says the LORD, “when I will gather together the people I punished, those who have suffered in exile. 7They are crippled and far from home, but I will make a new beginning with those who are left, and they will become a great nation. I will rule over them on Mount Zion from that time on and forever. ” 8And you, Jerusalem, where God, like a shepherd from his lookout tower, watches over his people, will once again be the capital of the kingdom that was yours. 9Why do you cry out so loudly? Why are you suffering like a woman in labor? Is it because you have no king, and your counselors are dead? 10Twist and groan, people of Jerusalem, like a woman giving birth, for now you will have to leave the city and live in the open country. You will have to go to Babylon, but there the LORD will save you from your enemies. 11Many nations have gathered to attack you. They say, “Jerusalem must be destroyed! We will see this city in ruins!” 12But these nations do not know what is in the LORD's mind. They do not realize that they have been gathered together to be punished in the same way that grain is brought in to be threshed. 13The LORD says, “People of Jerusalem, go and punish your enemies! I will make you as strong as a bull with iron horns and bronze hoofs. You will crush many nations, and the wealth they got by violence you will present to me, the Lord of the whole world.” Reflect Reread verse 4:13. When God's people defeated an enemy, it was understood that all wealth gained in battle belonged to God, who gave them the victory. What does it mean to give money to the Lord? If everything we have belongs to God, what is the significance of dedicating the resources we have back to God? How can giving money be an act of justice? Pray Generous God, you have made your people stewards of your resources. Teach me to give generously, that my stewardship may bring you glory and bring hope and healing for your people. Amen. Prayer Concern Churches struggling financially Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 21, 2010 Author Members Posted October 21, 2010 October 21, 2010 Micah 5:1-15 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Micah 5:1-15: Micah says that God will appoint a ruler to take care of the people and to bring them peace. Enemies will be defeated and idols honoring other gods will be destroyed. This leader will rule like the ideal shepherd-king, bringing justice and peace to the people. Micah pictures the descendants of the exiled survivors growing in numbers and returning to defeat their enemies. Today’s Scripture: Micah 5:4, 5a When he comes, he will rule his people with the strength that comes from the LORD and with the majesty of the LORD God himself. His people will live in safety because people all over the earth will acknowledge his greatness, and he will bring peace. Today’s Reading 1People of Jerusalem, gather your forces! We are besieged! They are attacking the leader of Israel! 2The LORD says, “Bethlehem Ephrathah, you are one of the smallest towns in Judah, but out of you I will bring a ruler for Israel, whose family line goes back to ancient times.” 3So the LORD will abandon his people to their enemies until the woman who is to give birth has her son. Then those Israelites who are in exile will be reunited with their own people. 4When he comes, he will rule his people with the strength that comes from the LORD and with the majesty of the LORD God himself. His people will live in safety because people all over the earth will acknowledge his greatness, 5and he will bring peace. When the Assyrians invade our country and break through our defenses, we will send our strongest leaders to fight them. 6By force of arms they will conquer Assyria, the land of Nimrod, and they will save us from the Assyrians when they invade our territory. 7The people of Israel who survive will be like refreshing dew sent by the LORD for many nations, like showers on growing plants. They will depend on God, not people. 8Those who are left among the nations will be like a lion hunting for food in a forest or a pasture: it gets in among the sheep, pounces on them, and tears them to pieces—and there is no hope of rescue. 9Israel will conquer her enemies and destroy them all. 10The LORD says, “At that time I will take away your horses and destroy your chariots. 11I will destroy the cities in your land and tear down all your defenses. 12I will destroy the magic charms you use and leave you without any fortunetellers. 13I will destroy your idols and sacred stone pillars; no longer will you worship the things that you yourselves have made. 14I will pull down the images of the goddess Asherah in your land and destroy your cities. 15And in my great anger I will take revenge on all nations that have not obeyed me. ” Reflect Like many of the prophets in this month's readings, Micah speaks a great deal about good and bad rulers. How does Micah think a ruler influences people? Micah uses the image of a "shepherd" to describe a leader. What characteristics does a shepherd have that would influence leadership style? How can leaders in the church be more like shepherds? Pray Great shepherd, you look after your people even as you lead them. Grant our church leaders the wisdom to be like shepherds, nurturing your people and showing them your way. Amen. Prayer Concern Clergy Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 22, 2010 Author Members Posted October 22, 2010 October 22, 2010 Micah 6:1-16 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Micah 6:1-16: The Lord God invites the people of Israel to explain their evil actions. They have forgotten how the Lord saved them in the past, and now they are sinning against God, disregarding what is right and what it is that God really wants. Today’s Scripture: Micah 6:8 No, the LORD has told us what is good. What he requires of us is this: to do what is just, to show constant love, and to live in humble fellowship with our God. Today’s Reading 1Listen to the LORD's case against Israel. Arise, O LORD, and present your case; let the mountains and the hills hear what you say. 2You mountains, you everlasting foundations of the earth, listen to the LORD's case! The LORD has a case against his people. He is going to bring an accusation against Israel. 3The LORD says, “My people, what have I done to you? How have I been a burden to you? Answer me. 4I brought you out of Egypt; I rescued you from slavery; I sent Moses, Aaron, and Miriam to lead you. 5My people, remember what King Balak of Moab planned to do to you and how Balaam son of Beor answered him. Remember the things that happened on the way from the camp at Acacia to Gilgal. Remember these things and you will realize what I did in order to save you. ” 6What shall I bring to the LORD, the God of heaven, when I come to worship him? Shall I bring the best calves to burn as offerings to him? 7Will the LORD be pleased if I bring him thousands of sheep or endless streams of olive oil? Shall I offer him my first-born child to pay for my sins? 8No, the LORD has told us what is good. What he requires of us is this: to do what is just, to show constant love, and to live in humble fellowship with our God. 9It is wise to fear the LORD. He calls to the city, “Listen, you people who assemble in the city! 10In the houses of evil people are treasures which they got dishonestly. They use false measures, a thing that I hate. 11How can I forgive those who use false scales and weights? 12Your rich people exploit the poor, and all of you are liars. 13So I have already begun your ruin and destruction because of your sins. 14You will eat, but not be satisfied—in fact you will still be hungry. You will carry things off, but you will not be able to save them; anything you do save I will destroy in war. 15You will sow grain, but not harvest the crop. You will press oil from olives, but never get to use it. You will make wine, but never drink it. 16This will happen because you have followed the evil practices of King Omri and of his son, King Ahab. You have continued their policies, and so I will bring you to ruin, and everyone will despise you. People everywhere will treat you with contempt. ” Reflect Reread 6:6-8. The people of Israel assume that they can restore the broken relationship with God by offering some kind of sacrifice to please God. The suggested sacrifices reveal a sense of desperation. Yet Micah reminds the people that God doesn't want their sacrifices if they fail to do what is most important-treat each other with justice and love. What makes it so hard to change the way we treat others? Pray Lord, you have told us what is good: we must do what is just, show constant mercy, and live in humble obedience to you. Guide my actions today, that I may follow your will. Amen. Prayer Concern Those seeking to live a life of justice, mercy, and obedience to God Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 23, 2010 Author Members Posted October 23, 2010 October 23, 2010 Micah 7:1-20 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Micah 7:1-20: The people have been disloyal, but there is hope, for they confess their sins and declare their trust in the Lord. Restoration is promised and Micah offers a prayer for God's people. The people praise God for keeping the promises made to their ancestors. Today’s Scripture: Micah 7:18 There is no other god like you, O LORD; you forgive the sins of your people who have survived. You do not stay angry forever, but you take pleasure in showing us your constant love. Today’s Reading 1It's hopeless! I am like a hungry person who finds no fruit left on the trees and no grapes on the vines. All the grapes and all the tasty figs have been picked. 2There is not an honest person left in the land, no one loyal to God. Everyone is waiting for a chance to commit murder. Everyone hunts down their own people. 3They are all experts at doing evil. Officials and judges ask for bribes. The influential people tell them what they want, and so they scheme together. 4Even the best and most honest of them are as worthless as weeds. The day has come when God will punish the people, as he warned them through their watchmen, the prophets. Now they are in confusion. 5Don't believe your neighbor or trust your friend. Be careful what you say even to your husband or wife. 6In these times sons treat their fathers like fools, daughters oppose their mothers, and young women quarrel with their mothers-in-law; your enemies are the members of your own family. 7But I will watch for the LORD; I will wait confidently for God, who will save me. My God will hear me. 8Our enemies have no reason to gloat over us. We have fallen, but we will rise again. We are in darkness now, but the LORD will give us light. 9We have sinned against the LORD, so now we must endure his anger for a while. But in the end he will defend us and right the wrongs that have been done to us. He will bring us out to the light; we will live to see him save us. 10Then our enemies will see this and be disgraced—the same enemies who taunted us by asking, “Where is the LORD your God? ” We will see them defeated, trampled down like mud in the streets. 11People of Jerusalem, the time to rebuild the city walls is coming. At that time your territory will be enlarged. 12Your people will return to you from everywhere—from Assyria in the east, from Egypt in the south, from the region of the Euphrates River, from distant seas and far-off mountains. 13But the earth will become a desert because of the wickedness of those who live on it. 14Be a shepherd to your people, LORD, the people you have chosen. Although they live apart in the wilderness, there is fertile land around them. Let them go and feed in the rich pastures of Bashan and Gilead, as they did long ago. 15Work miracles for us, LORD, as you did in the days when you brought us out of Egypt. 16The nations will see this and be frustrated in spite of all their strength. In dismay they will close their mouths and cover their ears. 17They will crawl in the dust like snakes; they will come from their fortresses, trembling and afraid. They will turn in fear to the LORD our God. 18There is no other god like you, O LORD; you forgive the sins of your people who have survived. You do not stay angry forever, but you take pleasure in showing us your constant love. 19You will be merciful to us once again. You will trample our sins underfoot and send them to the bottom of the sea! 20You will show your faithfulness and constant love to your people, the descendants of Abraham and of Jacob, as you promised our ancestors long ago. Reflect This month, our readings are focused on biblical passages that teach about God's justice. What does justice mean to you? Why does God want us to act with justice and mercy? How is God's justice an outgrowth of God's love? Pray Just and loving God, you demand that we act with justice and love. Forgive me for the times I have failed to recognize and speak out against the injustice in the world, and empower me to do your will. Amen. Prayer Concern Judges Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 25, 2010 Author Members Posted October 25, 2010 October 24, 2010 Psalm 72 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Psalm 72: Today we begin reading from the Book of Psalms. Psalm 72 is called, "A Prayer for God to Guide and Help the King." The prayer asks that God help the king to rule like God, with honesty, fairness, peace and justice. The psalmist envisions a world that is blessed with prosperity because of the king's rule. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 72:1, 2 Teach the king to judge with your righteousness, O God; share with him your own justice, so that he will rule over your people with justice and govern the oppressed with righteousness. Today’s Reading 1Teach the king to judge with your righteousness, O God; share with him your own justice, 2so that he will rule over your people with justice and govern the oppressed with righteousness. 3May the land enjoy prosperity; may it experience righteousness. 4May the king judge the poor fairly; may he help the needy and defeat their oppressors. 5May your people worship you as long as the sun shines, as long as the moon gives light, for ages to come. 6May the king be like rain on the fields, like showers falling on the land. 7May righteousness flourish in his lifetime, and may prosperity last as long as the moon gives light. 8His kingdom will reach from sea to sea, from the Euphrates to the ends of the earth. 9The peoples of the desert will bow down before him; his enemies will throw themselves to the ground. 10The kings of Spain and of the islands will offer him gifts; the kings of Sheba and Seba will bring him offerings. 11All kings will bow down before him; all nations will serve him. 12He rescues the poor who call to him, and those who are needy and neglected. 13He has pity on the weak and poor; he saves the lives of those in need. 14He rescues them from oppression and violence; their lives are precious to him. 15Long live the king! May he be given gold from Sheba; may prayers be said for him at all times; may God's blessings be on him always! 16May there be plenty of grain in the land; may the hills be covered with crops, as fruitful as those of Lebanon. May the cities be filled with people, like fields full of grass. 17May the king's name never be forgotten; may his fame last as long as the sun. May all nations ask God to bless them as he has blessed the king. 18Praise the LORD, the God of Israel! He alone does these wonderful things. 19Praise his glorious name forever! May his glory fill the whole world. Amen! Amen! 20This is the end of the prayers of David son of Jesse. Reflect This prayer for the king may have originally been used at times when a new king ascended the throne. The king was seen as God's "chosen one." The king was to serve God by being honest and fair and by taking care of the poor. How can this kind of leadership bring about peace? Pray Ruler of all, teach our leaders to govern with honesty, fairness, justice, and compassion. May they care particularly for the poor and needy in our midst through their policies and actions. Amen. Prayer Concern Government leaders Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 25, 2010 Author Members Posted October 25, 2010 October 25, 2010 Psalm 73 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Psalm 73: Today's psalm speaks about God's justice. The psalmist has nearly lost confidence in God because of the evil he sees in the world. But God reminds him that God's goodness will always prevail. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 73:26 My mind and my body may grow weak, but God is my strength; he is all I ever need. Today’s Reading 1God is indeed good to Israel, to those who have pure hearts. 2But I had nearly lost confidence; my faith was almost gone 3because I was jealous of the proud when I saw that things go well for the wicked. 4They do not suffer pain; they are strong and healthy. 5They do not suffer as other people do; they do not have the troubles that others have. 6And so they wear pride like a necklace and violence like a robe; 7their hearts pour out evil, and their minds are busy with wicked schemes. 8They laugh at other people and speak of evil things; they are proud and make plans to oppress others. 9They speak evil of God in heaven and give arrogant orders to everyone on earth, 10so that even God's people turn to them and eagerly believe whatever they say. 11They say, “God will not know; the Most High will not find out.” 12That is what the wicked are like. They have plenty and are always getting more. 13Is it for nothing, then, that I have kept myself pure and have not committed sin? 14O God, you have made me suffer all day long; every morning you have punished me. 15If I had said such things, I would not be acting as one of your people. 16I tried to think this problem through, but it was too difficult for me 17until I went into your Temple. Then I understood what will happen to the wicked. 18You will put them in slippery places and make them fall to destruction! 19They are instantly destroyed; they go down to a horrible end. 20They are like a dream that goes away in the morning; when you rouse yourself, O Lord, they disappear. 21When my thoughts were bitter and my feelings were hurt, 22I was as stupid as an animal; I did not understand you. 23Yet I always stay close to you, and you hold me by the hand. 24You guide me with your instruction and at the end you will receive me with honor. 25What else do I have in heaven but you? Since I have you, what else could I want on earth? 26My mind and my body may grow weak, but God is my strength; he is all I ever need. 27Those who abandon you will certainly perish; you will destroy those who are unfaithful to you. 28But as for me, how wonderful to be near God, to find protection with the Sovereign LORD and to proclaim all that he has done! Reflect Reread 73:1. In Hebrew thought, the heart was not understood to be the seat of emotions so much as the place where a person's thoughts and intentions resided. To have a "pure heart," then, is to be obedient and loyal to God. What does having a pure heart mean to you? What would be required for you to be truly obedient and loyal to God? Pray Gracious God, you are my strength, and you are all I ever need. How wonderful it is to find protection in you and to proclaim all you have done! Praise be to God! Amen. Prayer Concern Those who seek true obedience to God. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 26, 2010 Author Members Posted October 26, 2010 October 26, 2010 Psalm 75 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Psalm 75: Today's psalm praises God for all he has done and affirms his ways of justice. The psalmist says that God judges fairly and urges humility. All power comes from God, who gives strength to those who follow God's way. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 75:1 We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks to you! We proclaim how great you are and tell of the wonderful things you have done. Today’s Reading 1We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks to you! We proclaim how great you are and tell of the wonderful things you have done. 2“I have set a time for judgment,” says God, “and I will judge with fairness. 3Though every living creature tremble and the earth itself be shaken, I will keep its foundations firm. 4I tell the wicked not to be arrogant; 5I tell them to stop their boasting.” 6Judgment does not come from the east or from the west, from the north or from the south; 7it is God who is the judge, condemning some and acquitting others. 8The LORD holds a cup in his hand, filled with the strong wine of his anger. He pours it out, and all the wicked drink it; they drink it down to the last drop. 9But I will never stop speaking of the God of Jacob or singing praises to him. 10He will break the power of the wicked, but the power of the righteous will be increased. Reflect Reread 75:3. The trembling creatures and shaking earth may refer to a time of upheaval in the world, either brought on by war or natural disaster. The psalmist is confident God will hold things together even through the most severe threat. How has God provided a firm foundation for you during unstable times? Pray We give thanks to you, O God, we give thanks to you! Even when the earth is shaking, you keep its foundations firm. Thank you for being a rock for me in times of uncertainty and despair. Amen. Prayer Concern Earthquake survivors Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 28, 2010 Author Members Posted October 28, 2010 October 27, 2010 Psalm 85 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Psalm 85: Today's psalm is a communal prayer for peace. It expresses a plea for God's mercy and offers the assurance of God's saving love. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 85:7 Show us your constant love, O LORD, and give us your saving help. Today’s Reading 1LORD, you have been merciful to your land; you have made Israel prosperous again. 2You have forgiven your people's sins and pardoned all their wrongs. 3You stopped being angry with them and held back your furious rage. 4Bring us back, O God our savior, and stop being displeased with us! 5Will you be angry with us forever? Will your anger never cease? 6Make us strong again, and we, your people, will praise you. 7Show us your constant love, O LORD, and give us your saving help. 8I am listening to what the LORD God is saying; he promises peace to us, his own people, if we do not go back to our foolish ways. 9Surely he is ready to save those who honor him, and his saving presence will remain in our land. 10Love and faithfulness will meet; righteousness and peace will embrace. 11Human loyalty will reach up from the earth, and God's righteousness will look down from heaven. 12The LORD will make us prosperous, and our land will produce rich harvests. 13Righteousness will go before the LORD and prepare the path for him. Reflect In the first half of the psalm (verses 1-7), the psalmist asks for God's forgiveness and pleas for God's mercy. How does the second half of the psalm (verses 8-13) offer a response to the first half? How does the psalmist describe the relationship between peace and doing what is right? What promise comes at the end of the psalm? Pray Oh Lord, you have blessed the land and all who are in it. Thank you for your loving faithfulness and ever-present grace. Teach me to live in peace and love. Amen. Prayer Concern Emergency workers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 28, 2010 Author Members Posted October 28, 2010 October 28, 2010 Psalm 94 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Psalm 94: This psalm cries out for justice on behalf of those who are oppressed and victimized. The psalm cautions against thinking that the success of the wicked is a sign that God is blind or unaware of what is happening. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 94:14, 15 The LORD will not abandon his people; he will not desert those who belong to him. Justice will again be found in the courts, and all righteous people will support it. Today’s Reading 1LORD, you are a God who punishes; reveal your anger! 2You are the judge of us all; rise and give the proud what they deserve! 3How much longer will the wicked be glad? How much longer, LORD? 4How much longer will criminals be proud and boast about their crimes? 5They crush your people, LORD; they oppress those who belong to you. 6They kill widows and orphans, and murder the strangers who live in our land. 7They say, “The LORD does not see us; the God of Israel does not notice.” 8My people, how can you be such stupid fools? When will you ever learn? 9God made our ears—can't he hear? He made our eyes—can't he see? 10He scolds the nations—won't he punish them? He is the teacher of us all—hasn't he any knowledge? 11The LORD knows what we think; he knows how senseless our reasoning is. 12LORD, how happy are those you instruct, the ones to whom you teach your law! 13You give them rest from days of trouble until a pit is dug to trap the wicked. 14The LORD will not abandon his people; he will not desert those who belong to him. 15Justice will again be found in the courts, and all righteous people will support it. 16Who stood up for me against the wicked? Who took my side against the evildoers? 17If the LORD had not helped me, I would have gone quickly to the land of silence. 18I said, “I am falling”; but your constant love, O LORD, held me up. 19Whenever I am anxious and worried, you comfort me and make me glad. 20You have nothing to do with corrupt judges, who make injustice legal, 21who plot against good people and sentence the innocent to death. 22But the LORD defends me; my God protects me. 23He will punish them for their wickedness and destroy them for their sins; the LORD our God will destroy them. Reflect Widows, foreigners and orphans (verse 6) are people who need help and are protected by God's law (see Exodus 22:21-24). Verses 20-21 highlight the condemnation of those in power who ignored God's concern for justice and took advantage of the poor. Do you ever feel like God is not paying attention to the pain and suffering in the world? How do you deal with that frustration? Who do you think most needs help and protection in the world today? Why? Pray Mighty Lord God, you are our rock, our fortress, our place of safety. You know our thoughts even before they take shape. Even when we doubt your presence, you are always with us. Use me to care for those in need today. Amen. Prayer Concern Widows, foreigners and orphans Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 29, 2010 Author Members Posted October 29, 2010 October 29, 2010 Psalm 97 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Psalm 97: Today's psalm praises God as the supreme ruler over all the earth. All of nature responds to God, from fire and lightening to hills and heavens. God is declared to be far superior to other gods and idols, and the psalmist praises God's justice. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 97:9, 10 LORD Almighty, you are ruler of all the earth; you are much greater than all the gods. The LORD loves those who hate evil; he protects the lives of his people; he rescues them from the power of the wicked. Today’s Reading 1The LORD is king! Earth, be glad! Rejoice, you islands of the seas! 2Clouds and darkness surround him; he rules with righteousness and justice. 3Fire goes in front of him and burns up his enemies around him. 4His lightning lights up the world; the earth sees it and trembles. 5The hills melt like wax before the LORD, before the Lord of all the earth. 6The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the nations see his glory. 7Everyone who worships idols is put to shame; all the gods bow down before the LORD. 8The people of Zion are glad, and the cities of Judah rejoice because of your judgments, O LORD. 9LORD Almighty, you are ruler of all the earth; you are much greater than all the gods. 10The LORD loves those who hate evil; he protects the lives of his people; he rescues them from the power of the wicked. 11Light shines on the righteous, and gladness on the good. 12All you that are righteous be glad because of what the LORD has done! Remember what the holy God has done, and give thanks to him. Reflect How is the Lord's presence described (verses 2-5)? Why might the psalmist have chosen this imagery? Have you ever envisioned God this way? What does the psalmist say about those who are faithful to God (verses 10-12)? Pray Lord God, you indeed are King! With the islands of the seas, the heavens of the sky, and all the nations, I praise you and celebrate your glory. Thank you for the joy and gladness you bring to my life. Help me shine your light of love on others. Amen. Prayer Concern Scientists Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted October 30, 2010 Author Members Posted October 30, 2010 October 30, 2010 Psalm 98 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Psalm 98: Today's psalm celebrates God's miracles in saving the people of Israel. The psalmist proclaims his joy and invites people to sing songs, make music and more. He calls upon the ocean, the earth, and all of creation to sing together and worship the Lord. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 98:8, 9 Clap your hands, you rivers; you hills, sing together with joy before the LORD, because he comes to rule the earth. He will rule the peoples of the world with justice and fairness. Today’s Reading 1Sing a new song to the LORD; he has done wonderful things! By his own power and holy strength he has won the victory. 2The LORD announced his victory; he made his saving power known to the nations. 3He kept his promise to the people of Israel with loyalty and constant love for them. All people everywhere have seen the victory of our God. 4Sing for joy to the LORD, all the earth; praise him with songs and shouts of joy! 5Sing praises to the LORD! Play music on the harps! 6Blow trumpets and horns, and shout for joy to the LORD, our king. 7Roar, sea, and every creature in you; sing, earth, and all who live on you! 8Clap your hands, you rivers; you hills, sing together with joy before the LORD, 9because he comes to rule the earth. He will rule the peoples of the world with justice and fairness. Reflect This psalm is meant to recall God's work in freeing the people from their life of slavery in Egypt. But the peoples' return to Judah after the Babylonian exile was also seen as a miracle of God's saving power. Have you ever felt that God has saved you? What was it like? How have you responded to God? Pray Wondrous creator, I praise you! I thank you! I love you! Thank you for your saving activity in my life. Remind me always of the joy of my salvation, that my spirit may be renewed. Amen. Prayer Concern Those whose lives are in danger Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 1, 2010 Author Members Posted November 1, 2010 October 31, 2010 Psalm 46 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Working for Peace and Justice Introduction Psalm 46: Today's psalm is one of thanksgiving and praise. The psalmist describes God as shelter and strength who provides courage in difficult times. He then celebrates God's amazing work in bringing peace among nations. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 46:7, 8 The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Come and see what the LORD has done. See what amazing things he has done on earth. Today’s Reading 1God is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. 2So we will not be afraid, even if the earth is shaken and mountains fall into the ocean depths; 3even if the seas roar and rage, and the hills are shaken by the violence. 4There is a river that brings joy to the city of God, to the sacred house of the Most High. 5God is in that city, and it will never be destroyed; at early dawn he will come to its aid. 6Nations are terrified, kingdoms are shaken; God thunders, and the earth dissolves. 7The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. 8Come and see what the LORD has done. See what amazing things he has done on earth. 9He stops wars all over the world; he breaks bows, destroys spears, and sets shields on fire. 10“Stop fighting,” he says, “and know that I am God, supreme among the nations, supreme over the world.” 11The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Reflect Today's psalm offers an image of God as a shelter amid the sometimes treacherous shifts of the natural world. It also uses the image of a river as a source of joy for the city. The psalmist seems to experience the natural world both as a source of danger, from which people need protection, and as a source of God's revelation, for which we should praise God. How do these two views of nature compare to your experiences of nature? Pray God, you are indeed my shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. When my world is shaking, you are there, bringing peace and hope. I will praise you always. Amen. Prayer Concern The renewal of natural resources Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 2, 2010 Author Members Posted November 2, 2010 November 1, 2010 Psalm 145 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 145: This month we will read a number of psalms giving thanks and praise to God. The book of Psalms is the hymnbook and prayer book of the Bible. Composed by different authors over a long period of time, these hymns and prayers were collected and used by the people of Israel in their worship, and eventually included in their Scriptures. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 145:13 Your rule is eternal, and you are king forever. The LORD is faithful to his promises; he is merciful in all his acts. Today’s Reading 1I will proclaim your greatness, my God and king; I will thank you forever and ever. 2Every day I will thank you; I will praise you forever and ever. 3The LORD is great and is to be highly praised; his greatness is beyond understanding. 4What you have done will be praised from one generation to the next; they will proclaim your mighty acts. 5They will speak of your glory and majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds. 6People will speak of your mighty deeds, and I will proclaim your greatness. 7They will tell about all your goodness and sing about your kindness. 8The LORD is loving and merciful, slow to become angry and full of constant love. 9He is good to everyone and has compassion on all he made. 10All your creatures, LORD, will praise you, and all your people will give you thanks. 11They will speak of the glory of your royal power and tell of your might, 12so that everyone will know your mighty deeds and the glorious majesty of your kingdom. 13Your rule is eternal, and you are king forever. The LORD is faithful to his promises; he is merciful in all his acts. 14He helps those who are in trouble; he lifts those who have fallen. 15All living things look hopefully to you, and you give them food when they need it. 16You give them enough and satisfy the needs of all. 17The LORD is righteous in all he does, merciful in all his acts. 18He is near to those who call to him, who call to him with sincerity. 19He supplies the needs of those who honor him; he hears their cries and saves them. 20He protects everyone who loves him, but he will destroy the wicked. 21I will always praise the LORD; let all his creatures praise his holy name forever. Reflect Reread verses 4-7. How have you experienced the generations before you sharing stories of God’s works with you? How can you share God’s work and glory with future generations? How does your life teach others about God’s love? Pray Always, I will praise you and honor your name, my God and King. Blessed is your name, each and every day, and I am delighted to sing your praises. Call out to all who can hear: your greatness is beyond our understanding! Amen. Prayer Concern Future generations Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 2, 2010 Author Members Posted November 2, 2010 November 2, 2010 Psalm 146 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 146: Psalms 146-150 all begin with the same line: “Praise the Lord!” This psalm contrasts the fallibility of humans with God’s perfection. It rehearses the goodness of God’s creation, and emphasizes God’s concern for justice. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 146:7, 8 He always keeps his promises; he judges in favor of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets prisoners free and gives sight to the blind. He lifts those who have fallen; he loves his righteous people. Today’s Reading 1Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, my soul! 2I will praise him as long as I live; I will sing to my God all my life. 3Don't put your trust in human leaders; no human being can save you. 4When they die, they return to the dust; on that day all their plans come to an end. 5Happy are those who have the God of Jacob to help them and who depend on the LORD their God, 6the Creator of heaven, earth, and sea, and all that is in them. He always keeps his promises; 7he judges in favor of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets prisoners free 8and gives sight to the blind. He lifts those who have fallen; he loves his righteous people. 9He protects the strangers who live in our land; he helps widows and orphans, but takes the wicked to their ruin. 10The LORD is king forever. Your God, O Zion, will reign for all time. Praise the LORD! Reflect Reread verses 3-4. These verses reflect the strong message of Israel’s prophets and the Law that the people were to place their trust in the Lord God and not in earthly leaders, wealth, foreign powers, or idols. What are the risks of putting our trust in worldly things? Why are we tempted to do it anyway? Pray Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord O my soul! I will praise you as long as I live, O God. I will sing to you all my life. You always keep your promises, share justice with the oppressed, and give food to the hungry. May your name be praised forever! Amen. Prayer Concern Elections in the U.S. Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 3, 2010 Author Members Posted November 3, 2010 November 3, 2010 Psalm 147 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 147: Today’s psalm expands on themes of yesterday’s reading, Psalm 146. These themes include God’s help and justice for the poor, the importance of trusting in God rather than in human leaders, and the glory of God’s creation. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 147:5-7 Great and mighty is our LORD; his wisdom cannot be measured. He raises the humble, but crushes the wicked to the ground. Sing hymns of praise to the LORD; play music on the harp to our God. Today’s Reading 1Praise the LORD! It is good to sing praise to our God; it is pleasant and right to praise him. 2The LORD is restoring Jerusalem; he is bringing back the exiles. 3He heals the broken-hearted and bandages their wounds. 4He has decided the number of the stars and calls each one by name. 5Great and mighty is our Lord; his wisdom cannot be measured. 6He raises the humble, but crushes the wicked to the ground. 7Sing hymns of praise to the LORD; play music on the harp to our God. 8He spreads clouds over the sky; he provides rain for the earth and makes grass grow on the hills. 9He gives animals their food and feeds the young ravens when they call. 10His pleasure is not in strong horses, nor his delight in brave soldiers; 11but he takes pleasure in those who honor him, in those who trust in his constant love. 12Praise the LORD, O Jerusalem! Praise your God, O Zion! 13He keeps your gates strong; he blesses your people. 14He keeps your borders safe and satisfies you with the finest wheat. 15He gives a command to the earth, and what he says is quickly done. 16He spreads snow like a blanket and scatters frost like dust. 17He sends hail like gravel; no one can endure the cold he sends! 18Then he gives a command, and the ice melts; he sends the wind, and the water flows. 19He gives his message to his people, his instructions and laws to Israel. 20He has not done this for other nations; they do not know his laws. Praise the LORD! Reflect Reread verses 13-20. God’s blessings for Jerusalem include secure gates (meaning peace), many children and good harvests. Verse 19 notes that God has spoken a personal word to his people. God’s instructions and laws are given to Israel. Just as God expects nature to obey his word, so also does he expect people to obey. What does it mean for you to obey God? What do you have to give up in order to obey God’s will for your life today? Pray Praise the Lord! It is good to sing praise to you, O God; it is pleasant and right to praise you. May I find the strength and wisdom to obey your word and your call for my life. May I know your wisdom and share it with others. Amen. Prayer Concern The homeless Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 4, 2010 Author Members Posted November 4, 2010 November 4, 2010 Psalm 148 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 148: This psalm is a call for the universe to praise God. While some of Israel’s neighbors worshiped the sun, moon, and stars as gods, in this psalm, the heavenly bodies worship the God who created them. In addition, this psalm invites everyone and everything on earth to praise God as creator. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 148:13 Let them all praise the name of the LORD! His name is greater than all others; his glory is above earth and heaven. Today’s Reading 1Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD from heaven, you that live in the heights above. 2Praise him, all his angels, all his heavenly armies. 3Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, shining stars. 4Praise him, highest heavens, and the waters above the sky. 5Let them all praise the name of the LORD! He commanded, and they were created; 6by his command they were fixed in their places forever, and they cannot disobey. 7Praise the LORD from the earth, sea monsters and all ocean depths; 8lightning and hail, snow and clouds, strong winds that obey his command. 9Praise him, hills and mountains, fruit trees and forests; 10all animals, tame and wild, reptiles and birds. 11Praise him, kings and all peoples, princes and all other rulers; 12young women and young men, old people and children too. 13Let them all praise the name of the LORD! His name is greater than all others; his glory is above earth and heaven. 14He made his nation strong, so that all his people praise him— the people of Israel, so dear to him. Praise the LORD! Reflect Reread 148:4. In the time that the psalm was written, people believed that the sky was a dome that covered the flat earth. They thought heavenly waters swirled above the sky and that an ocean of water resided under the earth. Now we have more insights into the nature of the sky, the earth and the rest of God’s creation. How can understanding creation inform our reading of the Bible? How can science help us appreciate the wonder of God’s creation? Pray Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord from heaven, you that live in the heights above. Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, shining stars, praise him, highest heavens! Let all of creation praise the Lord! Your name is greater than all others, and I praise you, oh God! Amen. Prayer Concern Caring for creation Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 5, 2010 Author Members Posted November 5, 2010 November 5, 2010 Psalm 149 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 149: Today’s psalm is another song of praise that emphasizes God’s justice. It offers images of music, praise and celebration. But it also includes words of punishment and violence. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 149:4, 5 The LORD takes pleasure in his people; he honors the humble with victory. Let God’s people rejoice in their triumph and sing joyfully all night long. Today’s Reading 1Praise the LORD! Sing a new song to the LORD; praise him in the assembly of his faithful people! 2Be glad, Israel, because of your Creator; rejoice, people of Zion, because of your king! 3Praise his name with dancing; play drums and harps in praise of him. 4The LORD takes pleasure in his people; he honors the humble with victory. 5Let God's people rejoice in their triumph and sing joyfully all night long. 6Let them shout aloud as they praise God, with their sharp swords in their hands 7to defeat the nations and to punish the peoples; 8to bind their kings in chains, their leaders in chains of iron; 9to punish the nations as God has commanded. This is the victory of God's people. Praise the LORD! Reflect Reread verses 6-9. The “swords” symbolize God’s concern for justice. Punishment is to serve the purpose of justice. God gave the king the responsibility for establishing justice on earth, but after the end of David’s dynasty, the responsibility for establishing justice was given to all God’s people. What is the relationship between punishment and justice? Pray Praise the Lord! I sing to you joyfully, saving God! Make me an agent of your justice through the peaceful power of your Holy Spirit, that I may be a living example of your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Prison chaplains Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 6, 2010 Author Members Posted November 6, 2010 November 6, 2010 Psalm 150 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God Introduction Psalm 150: In today’s psalm, a full choir of voices joins a full orchestra of musical instruments as “all living creatures” unite in the song of praise. There is no better way to express the message that is found throughout Psalms—God, the creator and ruler of the world, deserves the praise of everything and everybody. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 150:3-5 Praise him with trumpets. Praise him with harps and lyres. Praise him with drums and dancing. Praise him with harps and flutes. Praise him with cymbals. Praise him with loud cymbals. Today’s Reading 1Praise the LORD! Praise God in his Temple! Praise his strength in heaven! 2Praise him for the mighty things he has done. Praise his supreme greatness. 3Praise him with trumpets. Praise him with harps and lyres. 4Praise him with drums and dancing. Praise him with harps and flutes. 5Praise him with cymbals. Praise him with loud cymbals. 6Praise the LORD, all living creatures! Praise the LORD! Reflect Music and musical instruments are mentioned frequently in the Bible, but unfortunately, no actual melodies are preserved and we can only guess at the exact sounds of the instruments. What kinds of music are most helpful to you in praising God? What does it mean to you to make a joyful noise unto the Lord? Pray Praise the Lord! Lord, I praise you for all the mighty things you have done. May the joyful noises I make be pleasing to you. Give me the confidence to sing, dance and celebrate as I worship you. Amen. Prayer Concern Churches in need of musical instruments Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 7, 2010 Author Members Posted November 7, 2010 November 7, 2010 1 Chronicles 16:1-7 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God Introduction 1 Chronicles 15:1-16:7: King David appoints Levites to bring the Covenant Box (the chest containing the Ten Commandments) into his new capital city, Jerusalem. He makes the occasion into a festival, with music, sacrifices, dancing and worship. Today’s Scripture: 1 Chronicles 16:1 They took the Covenant Box to the tent which David had prepared for it and put it inside. Then they offered sacrifices and fellowship offerings to God. Today’s Reading 1For his own use, David built houses in David's City. He also prepared a place for God's Covenant Box and put up a tent for it. 2Then he said, “Only Levites should carry the Covenant Box, because they are the ones the LORD chose to carry it and to serve him forever. ” 3So David summoned all the people of Israel to Jerusalem in order to bring the Covenant Box to the place he had prepared for it. 4Next he sent for the descendants of Aaron and for the Levites. 5From the Levite clan of Kohath came Uriel, in charge of 120 members of his clan; 6from the clan of Merari came Asaiah, in charge of 220; 7from the clan of Gershon, Joel, in charge of 130; 8from the clan of Elizaphan, Shemaiah, in charge of 200; 9from the clan of Hebron, Eliel, in charge of 80; 10and from the clan of Uzziel, Amminadab, in charge of 112. 11David called in the priests Zadok and Abiathar and the six Levites, Uriel, Asaiah, Joel, Shemaiah, Eliel, and Amminadab. 12He said to the Levites, “You are the leaders of the Levite clans. Purify yourselves and your fellow Levites, so that you can bring the Covenant Box of the LORD God of Israel to the place I have prepared for it. 13Because you were not there to carry it the first time, the LORD our God punished us for not worshiping him as we should have done. ” 14Then the priests and the Levites purified themselves in order to move the Covenant Box of the LORD God of Israel. 15The Levites carried it on poles on their shoulders, as the LORD had commanded through Moses. 16David commanded the leaders of the Levites to assign various Levites to sing and to play joyful music on harps and cymbals. 17-21From the clans of singers they chose the following men to play the brass cymbals: Heman son of Joel, his relative Asaph son of Berechiah, and Ethan son of Kushaiah, of the clan of Merari. To assist them they chose the following Levites to play the high-pitched harps: Zechariah, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah. To play the low-pitched harps they chose the following Levites: Mattithiah, Eliphelehu, Mikneiah, Azaziah, and the Temple guards, Obed Edom and Jeiel. 22Because of his skill in music Chenaniah was chosen to be in charge of the levitical musicians. 23-24Berechiah and Elkanah, along with Obed Edom and Jehiah, were chosen as guards for the Covenant Box. The priests Shebaniah, Joshaphat, Nethanel, Amasai, Zechariah, Benaiah, and Eliezer were chosen to blow trumpets in front of the Covenant Box. 25So King David, the leaders of Israel, and the military commanders went to the house of Obed Edom to get the Covenant Box, and they had a great celebration. 26They sacrificed seven bulls and seven sheep, to make sure that God would help the Levites who were carrying the Covenant Box. 27David was wearing a robe made of the finest linen, and so were the musicians, Chenaniah their leader, and the Levites who carried the Box. David also wore a linen ephod. 28So all the Israelites accompanied the Covenant Box up to Jerusalem with shouts of joy, the sound of trumpets, horns, and cymbals, and the music of harps. 29As the Box was being brought into the city, Michal, Saul's daughter, looked out of the window and saw King David dancing and leaping for joy, and she was disgusted with him. 1They took the Covenant Box to the tent which David had prepared for it and put it inside. Then they offered sacrifices and fellowship offerings to God. 2After David had finished offering the sacrifices, he blessed the people in the name of the LORD 3and distributed food to them all. He gave each man and woman in Israel a loaf of bread, a piece of roasted meat, and some raisins. 4David appointed some of the Levites to lead the worship of the LORD, the God of Israel, in front of the Covenant Box, by singing and praising him. 5Asaph was appointed leader, with Zechariah as his assistant. Jeiel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Mattithiah, Eliab, Benaiah, Obed Edom, and Jeiel were to play harps. Asaph was to sound the cymbals, 6and two priests, Benaiah and Jahaziel, were to blow trumpets regularly in front of the Covenant Box. 7It was then that David first gave Asaph and the other Levites the responsibility for singing praises to the LORD. Reflect In the Old Testament, the Covenant Box represents the presence of God with Israel. Why was it so important for David to bring the Covenant Box into Jerusalem? How did those carrying the box show their respect for it? What did the Israelites do to celebrate? How does your church celebrate God’s presence? Pray Ever present God, thank you for the many ways in which your presence is made known today—in the whisper of the wind, the embrace of a friend, the generosity of a stranger, and much more. May my life be a reminder of your presence to others. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are lonely Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 8, 2010 Author Members Posted November 8, 2010 November 8, 2010 1 Chronicles 16:8-43 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God Introduction 1 Chronicles 16:8-43: King David appoints Levites to sing praises to the Lord. This song of praise includes descriptions of God’s miracles of the past, a portrayal of God’s justice, and affirmation of God’s role as ruler of the whole universe. Today’s Scripture: 1 Chronicles 16:23, 24 Sing to the LORD, all the world! Proclaim every day the good news that he has saved us. Proclaim his glory to the nations, his mighty deeds to all peoples. Today’s Reading 8Give thanks to the LORD, proclaim his greatness; tell the nations what he has done. 9Sing praise to the LORD; tell the wonderful things he has done. 10Be glad that we belong to him; let all who worship him rejoice! 11Go to the LORD for help, and worship him continually. 12-13You descendants of Jacob, God's servant, descendants of Israel, whom God chose, remember the miracles that God performed and the judgments that he gave. 14The LORD is our God; his commands are for all the world. 15Never forget God's covenant, which he made to last forever, 16the covenant he made with Abraham, the promise he made to Isaac. 17The LORD made a covenant with Jacob, one that will last forever. 18“I will give you the land of Canaan,” he said. “It will be your own possession.” 19God's people were few in number, strangers in the land of Canaan. 20They wandered from country to country, from one kingdom to another. 21But God let no one oppress them; to protect them, he warned the kings: 22“Don't harm my chosen servants; do not touch my prophets. ” 23Sing to the LORD, all the world! Proclaim every day the good news that he has saved us. 24Proclaim his glory to the nations, his mighty deeds to all peoples. 25The LORD is great and is to be highly praised; he is to be honored more than all the gods. 26The gods of all other nations are only idols, but the LORD created the heavens. 27Glory and majesty surround him, power and joy fill his Temple. 28Praise the LORD, all people on earth, praise his glory and might. 29Praise the LORD's glorious name; bring an offering and come into his Temple. Bow down before the Holy One when he appears; 30tremble before him, all the earth! The earth is set firmly in place and cannot be moved. 31Be glad, earth and sky! Tell the nations that the LORD is king. 32Roar, sea, and every creature in you; be glad, fields, and everything in you! 33The trees in the woods will shout for joy when the LORD comes to rule the earth. 34Give thanks to the LORD, because he is good; his love is eternal. 35Say to him, “Save us, O God our Savior; gather us together; rescue us from the nations, so that we may be thankful and praise your holy name. ” 36Praise the LORD, the God of Israel! Praise him now and forever! Then all the people said, “Amen,” and praised the LORD. 37King David put Asaph and the other Levites in permanent charge of the worship that was held at the place where the Covenant Box was kept. They were to perform their duties there day by day. 38Obed Edom son of Jeduthun and sixty-eight men of his clan were to assist them. Hosah and Obed Edom were in charge of guarding the gates. 39Zadok the priest and his fellow priests, however, were in charge of the worship of the LORD at the place of worship in Gibeon. 40Every morning and evening they were to burn sacrifices whole on the altar in accordance with what was written in the Law which the LORD gave to Israel. 41There with them were Heman and Jeduthun and the others who were specifically chosen to sing praises to the LORD for his eternal love. 42Heman and Jeduthun also had charge of the trumpets and cymbals and the other instruments which were played when the songs of praise were sung. The members of Jeduthun's clan were in charge of guarding the gates. 43Then everyone went home, and David went home to spend some time with his family. Reflect Why do you think it was important to the king to invite singers to sing to God in the temple? What can singing praises to God do that cannot be done in any other way? As you read through the song in verses 8-36, what do you notice about it? How does it speak to you, encourage you, or inspire you? Pray Glorious God, I was created to praise you! You are good to us, and your love never fails. Deepen my desire to praise you above all things. Amen. Prayer Concern Music ministers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted November 10, 2010 Author Members Posted November 10, 2010 November 9, 2010 2 Chronicles 35:1-19 (Good News Translation) Embodying Hope and Giving Thanks and Praise to God Introduction 2 Chronicles 35:1-19: King Josiah celebrates the Passover festival in grand style as part of his efforts to reconcile the people to God. He works with his priests to make sure everything is ready and he leads the celebration just as the Law of Moses requires. Today’s Scripture: 2 Chronicles 35:16 So, as King Josiah had commanded, everything was done that day for the worship of the LORD, the keeping of the Passover Festival, and the offering of burnt offerings on the altar. Today’s Reading 1King Josiah celebrated the Passover at Jerusalem in honor of the LORD; on the fourteenth day of the first month they killed the animals for the festival. 2He assigned to the priests the duties they were to perform in the Temple and encouraged them to do them well. 3He also gave these instructions to the Levites, the teachers of Israel, who were dedicated to the LORD: “Put the sacred Covenant Box in the Temple that King Solomon, the son of David, built. You are no longer to carry it from place to place, but you are to serve the LORD your God and his people Israel. 4Take your places in the Temple by clans, according to the responsibilities assigned to you by King David and his son King Solomon, 5and arrange yourselves so that some of you will be available to help each family of the people of Israel. 6You are to kill the Passover lambs and goats. Now make yourselves ritually clean and prepare the sacrifices in order that your fellow Israelites may follow the instructions which the LORD gave through Moses. ” 7For the use of the people at the Passover, King Josiah contributed from his own herds and flocks 30,000 sheep, lambs, and young goats, and 3,000 bulls. 8His officials also made contributions for the people, the priests, and the Levites to use. And the officials in charge of the Temple—Hilkiah, the High Priest, Zechariah, and Jehiel—gave the priests 2,600 lambs and young goats and 300 bulls for sacrifices during the festival. 9The leaders of the Levites—Conaniah, Shemaiah and his brother Nethanel, Hashabiah, Jeiel, and Jozabad—contributed 5,000 lambs and young goats and 500 bulls for the Levites to offer as sacrifices. 10When everything was arranged for the Passover, the priests and the Levites took their posts, as commanded by the king. 11After the lambs and goats had been killed, the Levites skinned them, and the priests sprinkled the blood on the altar. 12Then they divided among the people, by family groups, the animals for burnt offerings, so that they could offer them according to the instructions in the Law of Moses. 13The Levites roasted the Passover sacrifices over the fire, according to the regulations, and boiled the sacred offerings in pots, kettles, and pans, and quickly distributed the meat to the people. 14After this was done, the Levites provided meat for themselves and for the priests descended from Aaron, for the priests were kept busy until night, burning the animals that were burned whole and the fat of the sacrifices. 15The following musicians of the Levite clan of Asaph were in the places assigned to them by King David's instructions: Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun, the king's prophet. The guards at the Temple gates did not need to leave their posts, because the other Levites prepared the Passover for them. 16So, as King Josiah had commanded, everything was done that day for the worship of the LORD, the keeping of the Passover Festival, and the offering of burnt offerings on the altar. 17For seven days all the people of Israel who were present celebrated the Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread. 18Since the days of the prophet Samuel, the Passover had never been celebrated like this. None of the former kings had ever celebrated a Passover like this one celebrated by King Josiah, the priests, the Levites, and the people of Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem 19in the eighteenth year of Josiah's reign. Reflect Reread verse 18. The Passover celebration under the previous king, Hezekiah, was held a month late, and many of the people had not followed the Law and made themselves clean (30:1-4, 18-19). What rituals are important to your faith community? Why? What rituals are important to your family? Why? Pray Loving God, as the Advent season approaches, make me mindful of my celebrations this year, that I may ensure you are the focus of my worship and praise. Amen. Prayer Concern Families in distress Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.