Description
This week’s resources consist of two creative Bible engagement activities, a personal reflection space and an invitation into interactive prayer. As we explore the lectionary readings through these activities, I encourage you to be reminded that people matter to God! People really, really, matter to God. So much so, that God provides for God’s people and blesses them in many different ways (Psalm 65), and in doing so gives us much to be thankful for. It isn’t simply what we do that God values. Rather, God values our innermost attitudes and heart posture (Luke 18:9-14). What an encouragement to align ourselves toward God and God’s values and way, depending on God’ strength rather than our own. When we do this, then we are living a life of faith. We are fighting the good fight, and running the race that will end with a crown of righteousness (2 Timothy 4:6-8).
Psalm 65 is a prayer of praise and thanks to God. From the lectionary readings for today, it’s easy to imagine this psalm being prayed by Paul (as he wrote 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18), or the tax collector from Luke 18:9-14, and by all those who trust the promises of Joel.
In Luke 18:9-14 we hear a story that Jesus told in order to highlight the value God places on valuing others rather than thinking of ourselves as better than others, and God’s desire for God’s people to be humble. As God’s people we please God when we live lives that point others to Jesus rather than to ourselves. This doesn’t mean we can’t be proud of our own achievements, or want to celebrate successes with others, but rather we recognise the strength that comes from God, and the important work that God is doing in our lives.
In 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18 Paul is looking back over his life, reflecting on his ministry and expressing satisfaction that he has done his best for Jesus. Paul uses three images to describe his life of service to Jesus: fought the fight, finished the race and kept the faith. All three of these images depict the need for great endurance, and this matters because Paul has endured and he knows that there is a crown of righteousness waiting for him.
