July 20, 2023

Beloved Children of God

Ira Stan Campbell | Read Genesis 28:10-17

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Lectionary Week

July 17–23, 2023

Scripture Overview

As God promised land and descendants to Abraham, in the reading from Genesis God confirms these same promises to Abraham’s grandson Jacob. The psalmist meditates on and takes comfort in the fact that God knows everything and is everywhere. He asks God to search his heart and reveal if there are sins away from which he needs to turn. The Romans passage continues Paul’s reflection on the life in the Spirit. Because we are children of God, we cry out with confidence that God will hear and answer. Jesus tells a parable in Matthew concerning the final judgment. He says that the wicked will be taken first, then the righteous will be gathered together.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Genesis 28:10-19a. When has God quietly been at work in your life? How do these experiences help you recognize God’s presence with you in ordinary days?Read Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24. God already knows us completely. What is holding you back from inviting God to search your heart?Read Romans 8:12-25. Consider the ways you already resemble God. In what ways do you wish to be transformed to resemble God more fully?Read Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43. Reflect on a time when you were frustrated by God’s inaction in the face of injustice. In hindsight, how was God at work?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Years ago, some friends and I hiked to the summit of Mount Whitney in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. I realized after finishing this hike that I had been so focused on making it to the top that I didn’t notice the beauty of God’s handiwork all along the trail. Thinking...

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Ever-present God, as we travel life’s journey, open our eyes to your presence. Amen.

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