Readings for the Day:
Isaiah 40:21-31: The Judeans in exile have a good reason to be hopeful: the one who will bring them to freedom is the God who created the world, the God who subdues the rulers of the earth and gives strength to those who are weary.
I Corinthians 9:16-23: God entrusted Paul with the responsibility of bringing the gospel to diverse people. Hence, the focus of Paul’s ministry is not his own rights or privileges as an apostle but the privilege of serving God by freely sharing the good news of Christ with others.
Mark 1:29-39: Everywhere Jesus goes, many people expect him to set them free from oppression. Everywhere he goes, he heals people and sets them free. Disease, devils, and death are running for their lives. The forces that diminish human life are rendered powerless by Jesus.
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2023 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— Has God’s power seemed absent or insufficient? If so, how and when? (Isaiah 40:21-31)
2—How might God be calling your church to more fully lean on the good news of the cross?’ (I Corinthians 9:16-23)
3—Do you have a space or way of listening to God and your own heart, each week? (Mark 1:29-39)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: Everlasting God, you give strength to the weak and power to the faint. Make us agents of your healing and wholeness, that your good news may be made known to the ends of your creation. Amen.