A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Proverbs 30:1-4,24-33

Have you ever reached a point in your life where you were beyond tired? How do you keep going in times where you lack energy and enthusiasm for life? Seeking the support of those around us does not mean that we are stupid or lack understanding. Rather, a true sign of wisdom is being humble enough to acknowledge when we are down in the dumps and inviting the help of others to lift our spirits. We all need a support group. We all need God’s help in transcending our temporal struggles. That which we find impossible as humans is possible with God. When we are weak, our support group gives us strength. The Bible highlights the distinction between the finite power of man and infinite power of God. God alone has ascended to heaven and come down. God alone has gathered the wind in the hollow of his hand. God alone has wrapped up the waters in a garment. God alone has established all the ends of the earth. God alone reveals the mystery of who he is and what he has done through his son for the salvation of the whole world. Our finite nature does not mean that we lack wisdom. In fact, some of the smallest things on earth are exceedingly wise: the ants are a people without strength, yet they provide their food in the summer; the badgers are a people without power, yet they make their homes in the rocks; the locusts have no king, yet all of them march in rank; the lizard can be grasped in the hand, yet it is found in kings' palaces. There walk with dignity before God and do what is honorable in the eyes of all. Look to creation and you will see examples of things that are stately in their stride; four are stately in their gait: the lion, which is mightiest among wild animals and does not turn back before any; the strutting rooster, the male goat, and a king striding before his people. When  you are weary or exhausted, do not artificially puff up yourself before others  or lie and cheat to get ahead. These will all come back to haunt you. If you have been foolish, exalting yourself, or if you have been devising evil, then put an end to such things. Faking who you are only leads to failure and greater frustration.

 

Philippians 3:1-11

Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice. Have you ever wondered why preachers, teachers, and mentors stress the same things over and over again. Repetition reinforces the essential teaching and practices that act as a safeguard to keep us from falling into sin. We must not take confidence in the things of the world. Rather, we submit ourselves fully to God who loves us unconditionally. Discipline gives birth to devotion. When we are disciplined in worshipping God, we naturally develop a devotion to Christ. The glamour of temporal glory must not rob us of the gift of eternal glory. We should regard temporal things as loss because of the eternal value of knowing Christ Jesus our Lord. For his sake we suffer the loss of all things, and we regard them as rubbish, in order that we may gain Christ and be found in him. Let us not pursue the approval of the world that comes from fitting into a box of worldly expectations. Instead, let us pursue righteousness that comes through faith in Christ. Our goal must be to know Christ and the power of his resurrection as we share in his sufferings and become like him in his death. Only then will we be able to also share in the power of his resurrection from the dead.


John 18:28-38

What is truth? This was Pilate’s question to Jesus. Even when there was no case against Jesus, the Jews tried to destroy his integrity. Have you ever had someone try to discredit you? How did you respond? In the face of such opposition, we must have the mindset of Jesus who spoke the truth to power regardless of the consequences. What gave Jesus such confidence was the understanding that his kingdom was not of this world. This world is not our eternal home. When we focus on the eternal truth of God’s kingdom, the temporal attacks against our character can be faced and overcome.


To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings Deuteronomy 1:1-18 This passage contains the words that Moses spoke to all Israel as they were camped on the great plains of Moab, able to see across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. This was the land of Canaan that God promised them but which they had not occupied for 400 years. This passage reminds us to be faithful and exhorts us to be prepared even then life is frustrating and confusing. God has a plan and purpose for our life even if we do not understand God’s ways. This passage also reveals Moses’ leadership style to us. He was willing to distribute the responsibility of leadership to others but did so only with the support of the people. It was not a dictatorship; it was a democracy. Each tribe was given freedom to choose individuals who were wise, discerning, and reputable among them to be their leaders. In what ways have we entrusted the responsibility of leadership to others? How have we failed to identify small group leaders ...
Read more
Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings Ezekiel 4:1-17 This passage portrays a vivid and symbolic depiction of the prophet's obedience to God's commands. As we reflect on these verses, we are struck by the profound message of commitment and sacrifice. Through the actions of building a miniature model of Jerusalem's siege and lying on his side for an extended period, Ezekiel demonstrates his unwavering faith and willingness to bear the burdens of his people. This passage reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's calling, even when it requires discomfort or unconventional actions. It encourages us to ponder how we can wholeheartedly serve and fulfill God's purposes, regardless of the challenges that may arise. Which of God’s commands is hardest for you to follow and why? Describe a recent experience where you modeled commitment and sacrifice to a cause bigger than yourself. Does your faith ever waver? Why or why not? Have you ever found obedience to God to ...
Read more
Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings 2 Samuel 17:24-18:8 In this passage, the narrative unfolds with King David in a time of crisis. His trusted counselor Ahithophel betrayed him, siding with Absalom. Amidst the chaos, David's faith in God remained unwavering. His plea for divine guidance led to wise counsel from Hushai, which countered Ahithophel's advice. David's reliance on God's direction prevailed, highlighting the importance of seeking God's will even in dire circumstances. This passage underscores that no scheme against God's chosen can prosper when trust in His providence prevails. It's a reminder to steadfastly seek God's guidance in all decisions. Questions: How did David react to Ahithophel's betrayal? How do you typically respond to betrayal? Why did Hushai's counsel to Absalom prove pivotal? Name one person who you turn to for wise counsel? How does this passage reveal David's unwavering faith during crisis? Has you faith ev...
Read more