November 8, 2026

Now What?

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Lectionary Week

November 2–8, 2026

Scripture Overview

On a “Now” clock, the word “now” is repeated around the perimeter where numbers would normally be. As the clock hands rotate throughout the day, the time is always “now.” Each passage this week emerges from a particular “now” moment in God’s story. In Joshua, the Israelites must choose whom they will serve. For the psalmist, the time has come to tell the story of God’s faithfulness in the past to encourage us in the present. Paul assuages the Thessalonians’ concerns and reminds them to encourage one another. Jesus’ parable teaches that his return will be unexpected, so we should always be ready. Like the hands on a “Now” clock, each passage points to the present moment, summoning us to mindful, wholehearted, unwaveringly joyful service to God and neighbor, now.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25. What gets more attention in churches today, belief or service?
Read Psalm 78:1-7. Try writing a psalm or prayer about God’s faithfulness to you despite your failures and shortcomings.
Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. Paul’s description of Christ’s return is meant to be encouraging. Do you find it so? Why or why not?
Read Matthew 25:1-13. Who do you identify with in this story? What challenges you? How would this parable read differently if the gender roles were reversed?

Respond by posting a prayer.

This parable comes midway through the “Little Apocalypse" in Matthew 24 and 25. Jesus speaks in frightening detail about a future time of tribulation, followed by a day of judgment. Then he tells a series of severe parables intended to elicit exemplary Christ-like conduct from his followers. The spectacularly harsh...

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Merciful God, you know where my heart lies based on what I do and what I avoid. Keep me focused and faithful. Now. Amen.

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