June 1, 2019

Discerning the Spirits

Jaco Louw | Read Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

May 27—June 2, 2019

Scripture Overview

How did you first hear about the gospel? Was it from your family or a friend? Or was it from a completely unexpected source? This week’s readings remind us that God uses many different techniques of revelation. Paul and Silas are in prison in Philippi, and the guard of the prison has no idea that he is about to encounter the power of God and come to faith. The psalmist says that creation itself reveals God’s glory and power. In Revelation, Jesus speaks directly about his future return and reign, as attested by his messenger and by the Spirit. Jesus prays in John for his followers, because through their unity the gospel will be proclaimed to others. Although Jesus ascends to heaven, the revelation of his plan and purpose does not end.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Acts 16:16-34. Recall a difficult time in your life. Were you able to continue to praise God through this time?
Read Psalm 97. Write your own word picture of what it means to be a child of God, who is in control.
Read Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21. How has Jesus’ invitation to partake of the water of life changed you?
Read John 17:20-26. What signs of division do you see in your community? How can you work toward the oneness to which God calls us?

Respond by posting a prayer.

I once spoke to a person who told me that she refuses to read Revelation. When I asked her why, she told me that all the violent imagery and scenes of death and destruction scare her so much that she cannot motivate herself to read it.

Just as Genesis tells...

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God, thank you for sending us your Son so that we can see what it means to be fully human. Jesus, thank you for the water of life that flows from you in which we can wash our old selves and from which we can drink life abundant. Amen.

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