Blogging toward Sunday

Google Image used by permission via Rev. Lil Smith, M.Div., DASD

In preparation for worship read Isaiah 9:1-4 and reflect on the following:

1. What promises do you find in this text?
2. How is light used as a metaphor?
3. What nations/lands are named?

Now turn to our gospel reading found in Matthew 4:12-23. Using the spiritual practice of lectio divina, read through the passage at least 3 times. After each reading, sit prayerfully, considering what word or phrase God might be speaking directly to you today. Afterward, spend a few moments considering the following:

1. What does Jesus mean when he calls his followers to be "fishers of people"?
2. What must I leave behind to be a faithful disciple of Jesus?

Finally, I offer you this prayer from Feasting on the Word: Worship Companion, edited by Kimberly Bracken Long:

God, our light and our salvation,

Jesus announced the nearness of your kingdom

and called his disciples to be fishers of women and men.

Give us courage to follow in the way of Jesus,

that our lives may bear witness to the good news of the 

kingdom at hand

and our vocation serve to draw people to your salvation;

through your Son, Jesus Christ, in the power of

the Holy Spirit. Amen.

May the Lord bless you and those you love this week. I look forward to seeing you face to face on Sunday and joining you in worship of our Gracious and Holy God.

Shalom,

Glenda