A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Isaiah 5:8-12,18-23

A judgment on gluttony is the essence of this reading. God will punish those who are selfish and destroy those who turn a blind eye to the plight of the poor. Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! Shame on those who are wise in their own eyes, and shrewd in their own sight! They will be held accountable for depriving the innocent of their rights.

  1. Define gluttony.

  2. Define as specifically as possible what it means to live a simple life.

  3. In what ways have we turned a blind eye to the poor?

  4. How have we served the needs of the poor?

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

Be warned!!!!!!!! The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. The moment you assume that there is peace and security, sudden destruction will come upon you just as labor pains come upon a pregnant woman. There is no escaping this reality! Therefore, do not hide in the darkness but rather embrace that you are children of light and children of the day. We must not fall asleep while our brothers and sisters are suffering. Instead, keep awake and ready for spiritual battles that will come upon you. Put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. In this way, God will save us from the coming wrath through our Lord Jesus Christ who died for us. Therefore, encourage one another and build up each other.

  1. Is there peace and security in our life? Explain why you feel this way.

  2. Does spiritual warfare always exist? If yes, then how does this affect peace and security?

  3. Why is it tempting to hide away in the darkness?

  4. What does being children of the day demand of us?

  5. What can we do to prepare ourselves for the spiritual battles of life?

  6. What is the source of our encouragement when going into spiritual battles?

Luke 21:20-28

This passage describes what the day of redemption will look like.

  1. What enemies have surrounded us?

  2. In what ways has our life become desolate?

  3. Where do we see great distress in the world?

  4. What signs in nature might give us a clue that the earth itself is experiencing distress?

  5. Have you ever felt like fainting from fear? What was this experience caused by and how did you get through the crisis?

  6. What physical response does the Bible say we should have when we see the Son of Man coming in a cloud? What does this physical response remind you of?

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