Weekly Lectionary Texts
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Psalm 125
James 2:1-10, 14-17
Mark 7:24-37
Monday, August 31. The book of Proverbs provides practical guidelines for everyday living. Verse 2 tells us that the rich and the poor have God as their maker. As you consider the poor or needy in your world today, think about how both you and they are reflections of God’s image.
Tuesday, September 1. The theme of Proverbs is repeated in James – God is the Creator of both rich and poor. What do you think it means to be to love your neighbor – both rich and poor – as you love yourself?
Wednesday, September 2. Like many of us, Nancy Drummand walked past a person in need, promising herself she would come back the next day. Read about her experience in “I Will – Tomorrow.” When have you had a similar experience? What happened? What did you learn?
Thursday, September 3. The author of “Till All the Jails Are “Empty” declares that God has work for us to do. What is the injustice or social ill that bothers you most? Consider the work that God has for you to do to work for justice.
Friday, September 4. As you read Psalm 125 think about the ways that your trust in God is like a mountain. What is solid about it? What does your faith have in common with a mountain? Where does your faith lead you to go?
Saturday, September 5. The story from Mark about Jesus’ encounter with the Syrophoenician woman raises questions about crumbs and why Jesus changed his mind. What do you find most amazing about this story? What crumbs do you have to share with someone today?
Sunday, September 6. Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time. Read “Mystery” and reflect on the people who need you and give yourself to them. Decide on an action you will take today on behalf of another and do it – even if it seems like just a crumb.
Prayer
God of all peoples, open my eyes to the needs around me. Give me the courage to share the crumbs of what I have in the firm belief they will bring great blessings to someone else. Amen.
Nancy Ferguson is a Presbyterian minister and certified church educator. Her ministry experiences range from seminary instructor to pastor to curriculum developer to camp director to outdoor ministries consultant. She is the author of six books and a frequent workshop leader. Nancy is an articulate advocate for experiential faith formation and experiences beyond the walls of the church. She lives in Accomac County, Virginia near Chincoteague Island where she focuses her attention on creation of educational and spiritual resources for congregational members, church leaders, and camps.
You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org