A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Ecclesiasticus 43:23-33

Note: The book of Sirach or Ecclesiasticus is considered to be the largest wisdom book from antiquity to have survived. It is accepted as part of the canon by Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and most Oriental Orthodox Christians. The Anglican tradition considers Sirach among the apocryphal books, and read them but do not yet apply them to establish any doctrine.

By God’s plan the creation came into being. Those who interact with creation declare the mysteries of God revealed through creation. We marvel at God’s marvelous creation. The people of God succeed and are held together because of God. We could say more but we could never say enough to describe the glory of God’s creation. We are truly left speechless, and all that we can utter is: “He is the all.” Even to praise God, we must find enough strength. For God is greater than all his works. The Lord is awesome and great; his power is beyond our understanding. Therefore, let us summon all our strength that we might glorify the Lord and exalt him as much as we can knowing all the while that God surpasses our highest offer of praise. We have only beheld a small portion of God’s glorious work. Therefore, let us remain humble and be persistent in seeking wisdom from God in all things.

  1. Define creation. What does this encompass?

  2. Who created creation? What does science have to say about the origin of all things?

  3. In what ways do we interact with creation on a daily basis?

  4. What is revealed to us in our interactions with creation?

  5. Do we know everything about creation? If not, then will we ever know everything about creation? Also, if you were to guess, then what else is left to say about the created order that has not already been said?

  6. What do we praise God for? What does our offer of praise look like?

  7. Is it possible to praise God enough?

  8. Why might humility and a persistent search for wisdom help us grow in our understanding and appreciation of God’s creation?

Revelation 16:1-11

This passage describes the pouring out of the bowls of God’s wrath on the earth. This is the third ‘woe’ described in Revelation 11:14. Due to our idolatry we are punished. We will be forced to drink the blood of the saints whom we have afflicted and the prophets whom we have tortured. This is what we deserve! In our stubbornness, we have refused to repent and to give God glory. Therefore, we will be plunged into darkness and agony.

  1. What signs of God’s wrath do we see poured out today?

  2. What is idolatry? What idols have taken hold of our life?

  3. How have we afflicted God’s leaders and tortured God’s messengers?

  4. In what areas of our life have we stubbornly refused to repent of our sins?

  5. How has our stubbornness prevented us from having a deeper relationship with God?

Luke 13:10-17

This passage teaches us about the true purpose behind worship. As Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath, a woman who had been crippled for eighteen years approached Jesus. She was unable to stand up straight. Jesus calls her, speaks to her, lays his hands on her, and heals her. The leader of the synagogue becomes angry that Jesus healed someone on the sabbath. Jesus refers to the leader of the synagogue as a hypocrite. Jesus’ opponents were put to shame; and the entire crowd rejoiced at all the wonderful things that Jesus was doing.

  1. What is the purpose of worship?

  2. How might the crippled woman who could not stand up straight be a symbolic representation of our own struggles?

  3. Has Jesus ever called you to do something?

  4. What is Jesus saying to you today?

  5. Has any church leader ever laid hands on you in the name of Jesus Christ? If so, then what was that experience like? If not, then is that something you would desire (speak to your priest if you are interested)?

  6. How have you experienced healing in your life? What healing are you currently longing for?

  7. In what ways are we like the leader of the synagogue who became angry at someone else’s good fortune?

  8. How have we been hypocritical in the personal choices we have made?

  9. Would you describe yourself as feeling more ashamed of yourself or would you characterize yourself as being filled with a spirit of joy? Explain.

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