June 25, 2025

Determined Discipleship

Kira Austin-Young | Read Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

June 23–29, 2025

Scripture Overview

Both the reading from Second Kings and from Luke portray the challenges and the rewards of discipleship. In Elisha’s case, his determination to be by Elijah’s side is rewarded with receiving the mantle and the powers of the great prophet, displayed in the parting of waters. For those following Jesus on his way to Jerusalem and the cross, Jesus requires single-minded focus and rebukes those who are not fully committed. The reading from Galatians lists the fruits of the Spirit and encourages us not to abuse our freedom in Christ but to use it to serve others. And the psalm reminds us of the might and faithfulness of God, even in the midst of personal distress and trouble.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14. What spiritual mentors have you had in your life whose gifts you would hope to emulate?
• Read Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20. When have you reached out to God in a time of personal trouble? How are God’s mighty deeds of the past comforting to you today?
• Read Galatians 5:1, 13-25. How have you experienced subverting your personal freedom in order to serve others?
• Read Luke 9:51-62. What excuses have you made to avoid the difficulty of following Jesus to the cross?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, when many places in the United States were under stay-at-home mandates, I was inexplicably drawn to learning about other times in history when people suffered from pandemics. Hearing stories from the Black Death in the mid-1300s, the yellow fever epidemic in Memphis, Tennessee, during the...

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God, help us to see where you are working in the world and to share your powerful deeds with others. Amen.

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