A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Judges 14:1-19

Here we are given a glimpse at Samson’s first failed marriage. Samson had experienced love at first sight and demanded a Philistine wife. Unfortunately, Samson was more concerned about how things looked to himself instead of how they looked to God. Do things of the flesh garner our attention more than the things of the spirit? How much time do we literally spend with God on a daily basis? What might this critical analysis of our time management suggest about what we love most in life? Specifically related to love, is it possible for us to fall in love with someone that we have no business falling in love with or is falling in love always the healthiest thing for us to do? It is interesting to note that Samson said to his father, "Get her for me, because she pleases me." How would Samson’s demand be received in today’s context - especially in light of the #MeToo movement? Samson’s parents felt pressured to give into their son’s demand but the Bible clearly points out that his parents did not know if Samson’s intention to marry a Philistine woman was from the Lord. What is the difference between marriage as a contract versus marriage as a covenant? Simply put, a contract is between two human beings and does not involve God. A covenant is initiated by God and involves his children. It is clear that Samson was strong enough to kill a young lion but he was not yet strong in the Lord. Samson was smart enough to stump the thirty Philistine companions but he lacked the wisdom of God. Samson was lost in his own selfish desires, and he was filled with destructive anger. He had a long road ahead of him to reach spiritual maturity. Would you consider yourself spiritually immature or mature and why?

Acts 6:15-7:16

In this passage, we see Stephen on trial before the highest religious court he could face. He was being examined by honored, educated, and powerful men. He had been falsely accused and seemed to have lost popular support. Yet, the scripture points out that even then Stephen’s face was like the face of an angel. When we are condemned and judged unfairly in the court of public opinion, does our face reflect the perfect peace and confidence that comes from knowing and trusting God?

John 4:27-42

The disciples were surprised that Jesus stretched the limits of cultural propriety with the extended conversation with the Samaritan woman. However, none of the disciples said, "What do you want?" or, "Why are you speaking with her?" Why were the disciples quiet; why didn’t they question or condemn Jesus’ actions? In what ways have we pushed the boundaries of culture? What response have we received from those around us when we attempted to transform culture? It is interesting to note that the woman left her water jar when she went back to the city. Why symbolic meaning might we infer from the Samaritan woman leaving her water jar behind? We must also consider carefully how the Samaritan woman felt compelled to share the good news of Jesus with those in her community even though Jesus had confronted her with her sin. How do we respond when family, friends or our faith community offers us constructive criticism? Is our church community a safe environment where people can confess their sin, repent, and put their trust in Jesus without the fear of retribution?

Another huge teaching point in this passage is the interaction between the disciples and Jesus regarding the need for Jesus to practice self-care. “It is right for the spiritual man to forget his hunger, but it is equally right for his true friends to remind him that he ought to eat for his health’s sake: it is commendable for the worker to forget his weakness and press forward in holy service; but it is proper for the humane and thoughtful to interpose with a word of caution, and to remind the ardent spirit that his frame is but dust. I think the disciples did well to say, ‘Master, eat.’” (Spurgeon) See John 4:31-34. Are we a true friend to those who are under enormous stress? Are we humane and thoughtful towards those who feel tired and exhausted by their life’s work?

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