November 11, 2025

For the Transformation of the World

Mara Richards Bim | Read Isaiah 65:17-19

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

November 10–16, 2025

Scripture Overview

The two readings from the book of Isaiah come from different eras in the lives of the Israelites: before the Babylonian exile and after. Both passages convey God’s vision for the new creation. The reading from Second Thessalonians addresses those in the church community at Thessalonica who are not abiding by the group’s covenantal agreement. The Gospel reading from Luke recounts a scene at the reconstructed Temple in Jerusalem toward the end of Jesus’ public ministry. Jesus prophetically announces that the Temple will once again be destroyed and that his followers will face persecution. Collectively, the four readings speak of God’s continued transformation of the world and the ways Christians are to participate in it.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Isaiah 12. How are you being made whole by God’s love today?
• Read Isaiah 65:17-25. Where is God calling you to share your gifts and talents in the world today?
• Read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13. Communities are made up of individuals, each with a responsibility to themselves and to the group. How is your spirit being formed privately and how is it being formed in community?
• Read Luke 21:5-19. Where do you experience the Divine’s presence in your life today? How are you being called to act in the world?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Today’s reading comes from a climactic moment in the later writings of Isaiah, believed to have been written after the Israelites returned from Babylonian exile in 538 BCE. Upon returning to Jerusalem, the Israelites were tasked with rebuilding their lives and the Temple. As we all know, building or rebuilding...

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Great Creator, show me where I am to do your work in the world today. Give me hope and strength so that I may be a light to all I encounter. Amen.

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