A Friendly Reminder
The date of my next dental appointment is written on a small piece of paper which I tack to the bulletin board in my kitchen. I add the date to my iPhone calendar as well as to my monthly paper calendar. I can expect to receive a postcard about a month before the next appointment and a phone call the day before. All friendly reminders to keep me on track.
The Scripture readings during worship yesterday had the same feeling that they were designed to be a friendly reminder to keep me on track. At first glance it would seem that my pastors had handpicked the readings to address the current headlines. But they hadn’t. The readings were from the Lectionary readings for the Fourth Sunday after Epiphany. Wow! Just wow! Not only were the readings a friendly reminder to me and everyone else in the little church I attend they were a friendly reminder to all who follow the Lectionary readings. I also believe there was a deeper reminder. A reminder that God has got this. Whatever “this” may be He has got it. He isn’t surprised or puzzled or at lost for resources. He has got it.
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany: Old Testament Micah 6:1 – 8, New Testament 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Gospel Matthew 5:1-12, Psalms 37:1-6. Highlights below:
Micah 6:8 (NIV) He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly[a] with your God.
1 Corinthians 1:25 (NIV) For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.
Matthew 5:3-12 (NIV)
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Psalm37:3-4 (NIV) Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Yes! Great encouragement today that God is in control. ((Hugs))
Love those Godly reminders we receive throughout the week.