A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Joshua 7:1-13

Have you ever stumbled in your faith? There have been times when I felt overwhelmed by the storms of life. There have also been times when I was greedy and chased after worldly glory instead of God's glory. I have learned the hard way that persevering in faith is not easy. In this passage, the Israelites broke faith and this angered the Lord. The Israelites tried to ambush the men of Ai but were instead chased and attacked by them. Whether the Israelites felt overwhelmed by the men of Ai or whether the Israelites were too prideful and arrogant and underestimated their opponent, the fact is that the Israelites were heartbroken and emotionally scarred because of the attack by the men of Ai. Joshua, the designated leader, cried out: "Ah, Lord God! Why have you brought this people across the Jordan at all, to hand us over to the Amorites so as to destroy us?” The Lord replied to Joshua, "Stand up! Why have you fallen upon your face? Israel has sinned; they have transgressed my covenant that I imposed on them.” The passage goes on to explain that the reason why Israel had stumbled in their faith was that they had lost sight of their identity as a people of God. If you do not stand for something, then you will fall for anything. What storms of life or what vainglory has made you stumble in your faith? How might remembering your identity as a child of God help you restore hope in the midst of difficult times?

Romans 13:8-14

We do not owe anyone anything except to love them unconditionally. All the commandments can be summed up in the commandment to love your neighbor as yourself. Love does not do wrong but delights in doing right. Love lays aside the works of darkness and puts on the armor of light. Love reflects the Lord Jesus Christ and does not seek to satisfy fleshly desires. Who have you loved today? Who has shown love to you? What does it mean to love someone unconditionally?

Matthew 26:36-46

How intentional are we about praying with those around us? When Jesus gathered with his disciples at the Garden of Gethsemane, he was grieved and agitated by his life situation and he yearned to pray with his disciples. Unfortunately, when Jesus rose up from praying, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping. This must have been very disheartening. Have we fallen asleep on those who yearn for our prayers? Who has reached out to you in prayer in the midst of your grief and frustration with life? Are we able to spend even one hour a week praying with those who are struggling with life’s storms? In theory, we all would like to say yes but in reality we all have our excuses for not being more intentional and alert in praying with those who struggle. Just as Jesus had to drink of the cup of suffering, many of those around us have no choice but to face the hardships of life. Who will stand with them in their hour of need? Who will remain asleep on the job and wake up only to realize that the opportunity to comfort someone has passed?

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