A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Isaiah 66:18-23

This passage is situated within the celebration of God’s ultimate victory. God gathers and restores his people according to their works. The God who created us knows our thoughts and his glory will one day be understood by all. There will be an epiphany and everyone will come to worship the Lord of all creation.

  1. What does it mean to celebrate?

  2. Why should we celebrate each day, and what are we celebrating?

  3. In what ways has God gathered and restored you?

  4. How does the reality that God knows your thoughts affect the choices you make in life?

  5. Do you ever find yourself forgetting that God knows everything about you? Why or why not?

  6. When will the world experience an epiphany and accept Jesus as Lord and Savior?

Romans 15:7-13

This passage exhorts us to consider the purpose behind living. It drives home the point that the reason for our very existence is for fellowship with God and one another. Therefore, we must welcome one another just as Christ has welcomed us, and serve one another as Christ served us. It is through such fellowship that God is glorified. Therefore, let us join together in praising God so that the world will filled with hope, joy and peace by the power of the Holy Spirit.

  1. What purpose drives your life?

  2. Why did God create us?

  3. The experience of fellowship essentially has 3 components: welcoming, serving and worshipping. How do each of these components enhance fellowship? How might they inhibit fellowship?

  4. Define hope. Define joy. Define peace. How are hope, joy and peace distinct from each other? What is the secret to filling the world with hope, joy and peace?

Collect - Eve of the Epiphany

O God, by the leading of a star you manifested your only Son to the Peoples of the earth:  Lead us, who know you now by faith, to your presence, where we may see your glory face to face; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

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