November 9, 2025

Focus

Heather Neal Bennett | Read Psalm 98:4-9

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Lectionary Week

November 3–9, 2025

Scripture Overview

The passages for this week remind us to stay focused. Without focusing, we become distracted and disoriented like the community in Second Thessalonians. In Haggai, the remnant have to be reminded that God has, is, and will be with them. In Luke, the Sadducees are refocused to see that God does not operate as humans understand. The psalmist reminds us what it looks like to be focused on God. The passages are reminders that God is always with us. God has given scripture, one another, and creation to learn from and experience God if we focus.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17. Spend a few minutes in silence, focusing on your inhalations and exhalations. Allow any distractions to enter one ear and exit the other; do not give them more awareness than that.
• Read Haggai 1:15b–2:9. Create a one-line drawing of what captures your attention. Begin at one point and do not lift your pencil until finished.
• Write down a list of questions you have for Jesus. Read Luke 20:27-38. How do you feel about your questions after reading Jesus’ response to the Sadducees?
• Read Psalm 98. Study creation this week from your window or in nature. How does creation praise God?

Respond by posting a prayer.

The psalmist’s joy is so unconstrained that the universe is invited to join in. The psalmist moves from soloist to conductor of a symphony, inviting all to participate. As they sing, they move the baton toward the harpists and sopranos inviting them to join. Next come the trumpets, ram’s horn,...

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God, may our relationship with you overflow to your creation, and may we be reminded of our connection with one another. May our conjoined praises please you. Amen.

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