Readings for the Day:
Isaiah 58:9-14: God promises those who have returned from exile that where justice and mercy prevail, the ruins will be rebuilt and light will rise in the darkness. It is a day for new beginnings.
Hebrews 12:18-29: Using images of Moses, the writer presents a striking vision of the new covenant of God made possible in Christ. There is no longer fear, only awe in the new promise in Christ into which we are invited.
Luke 13:10-17: Jesus heals a woman on the Sabbath, offering her a new beginning for her life. When challenged by a narrow reading of the Sabbath command, Jesus responds by expanding ‘Sabbath work’ to include setting people free from bondage.
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2024 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— How does the passage from Isaiah help you to understand the idea of Sabbath? (Isaiah 58:9-14)
2—How are you fed by Sunday worship? How are you still longing? (Hebrews 12:18-29)
3—How is your faith community a place where you feel set free? (Luke 13:10-17)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: O God, mighty and immortal, you know that as fragile creatures surrounded by great dangers, we cannot by ourselves stand upright. Give us strength of mind and body, so that even when we suffer because of human sin, we may rise victorious. Amen.