June 30, 2020

​Daily Lectionary Readings for Year A

Have you seen reports lately of people yelling or acting in the most disturbing ways?  It's often people complaining about wearing a mask to protect others in public.  Or, sometimes it's people who are upset with those who are marching for justice.  The words shouted and the body language displayed reveals anger that feels consuming and dangerous.

In 1 Kings this morning, Elijah asks God to convince the people of God's power.  And in one swoop, a fire-ball disintegrates the wood, the stone, and evaporates the pool of water.  God chose to speak through action.

In 1 John, the early Christians are advised to discern carefully the prophets who claim to speak on God's behalf.  Test their spirits, because there are many false prophets who seek to lead God's people astray.

One lesson we can ponder today is to examine our own speech and actions.  What if people were looking at our actions, and what if people were listening to our words, in order to discover whether or not God and goodness were part of our lives?

Prayer and practice help us to train ourselves to reflect as much of God as we can.  We can model what we say and do after what we learn of Christ.  Be compassionate.  Show mercy.  Always be kind.  Be mindful of others.  Pray.  Speak truth to power.  Include everyone.  Take the time to connect.  See God in others.  What else can you learn from Jesus to help you to live a life reflective of his love?

A helpful acronym is T.H.I.N.K..  
Ask, is what I am saying:
True?
Helpful?
Inspiring?
Necessary?
Kind?

Let us continue the work to follow in the footsteps of Christ.  Maybe there is someone you could call or reach out to today to help you think about the way you T.H.I.N.K..

Peace,
Dean