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A Different Pew, A Deeper Faith
Photograph by Daniel Gomez / Unsplash I am sitting in a back pew of my new Read More
Stanley R. Copeland | Read Psalm 80:1-2
Before reading the entire psalm, we must focus on its beginning, “Stir up your might, and come to save us!” It is hard to read this lamenting psalm without mourning the state of the church—as a being like the vineyard planted by God, full of hope but with sour grapes...
God of might and forgiveness, I want to feel your hand on my shoulder, for you alone can save us. Let me never turn from you; give me life as I call on your name. Amen.
The scripture readings for the week have a common theme of God’s making a way, and God’s way always leads to restoration, forgiveness, justice, mercy, and love. We can stray from God’s way or reject it altogether, but God never strays from us, will not forsake us, and always beckons us to pursue God’s way leading ultimately to peace and a real experience of God’s presence. The scripture readings conclude with acknowledgment that on God’s way we are surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses”—saints of the faith are also our companions. Standing beside us along the way is Jesus accompanying us.
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• Read Isaiah 5:1-7. How do we take the way of justice and mercy that God has provided for us and reject the way that leads to bloodshed?
• Read Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19. What do we need rescue from in the present day? Why do we need restoration and revival, and what purpose would it serve?
• Read Hebrews 11:29–12:2. Who do you see as a person or persons of faith who have shined a light on the path of God’s way?
• Read Luke 12:49-56. How do we address divisions when they come upon us in our families, friendship circles, and communities of faith?
Respond by posting a prayer.
