Upper Room Daily Reflections A New Creation Posted: 30 Aug 2013 10:01 PM PDT Today’s Reflection WHEN WE ASK PEOPLE FOR money to strengthen or expand the work of the kingdom, we are also inviting then into a new spiritual communion. This is very important. In Paul’s letter to the Romans we read: “We are well aware that the whole creation, until this time, has been groaning in labour pains. And not only that: we too, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, even we are groaning inside ourselves, waiting with eagerness for our bodies to be set free” (Rom. 8:22-23, NJB). This groaning comes from deep within us, and indeed from within all creation. It is the sound of our yearning for communion with God and with one another, a communion that transcends the limitations of time and space. At the same time, this groaning also expresses God’s passionate yearning for communion with us and with all that God created. God desires “that the whole creation itself might be freed from its slavery to corruption and brought into the same glorious freedom as the children of God” Rom. 8:21, NJB). This is the freedom of true spiritual communion. Asking for money is a way to call people into this communion with us. It is saying, “We want you to get to know us.” Gathered together by our common yearning, we begin to know this communion as we move together toward our vision. - Henri Nouwen John S. Mogabgab, Editor Today’s Question Where do you see signs of God’s new creation? Today’s Scripture 14:10 But when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher’; then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. Luke 14:10, NRSV This Week: pray for those who are hospitalized. Submit your prayer to The Upper Room Living Prayer Center or share it in the comment section below. Did You Know? Subscribe to receive Upper Room Recommends, a free weekly e-newsletter, and we’ll send you an email with the latest news from Upper Room Books. It’s a great way to stay up-to-date with our featured books, authors, and discount offers up to 50% off selected products in our online store! Saints, Inc.: This week we remember: Augustine of Hippo (August 28). Lectionary Readings (Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library) Jeremiah 2:4-13 Psalm 81:1, 10-16 Hebrews 12:18-29 Luke 13:10-17 Sponsored by Upper Room Ministries ®. Copyright © 2013, a ministry of GBOD | PO Box 340004 | Nashville, TN 37203-0004 | USA Prayer for My Church Posted: 30 Aug 2013 11:34 AM PDT Today’s Reflection DEAR LORD, THANK YOU for my church And for the people who are part of it. I’m grateful to be reminded each Sunday of Who I want to be, Who you want me to be, and Who you want us to be together. Continue to guide the pastor, other leaders, and each church member. Keep us faithful to you and to the mission you have given us. Help our lives better reflect your love, both as individuals and as a community. I pray for courage and encouragement For those who are starting new churches. Let their lives show your love and caring So that many people who need you will find you. Help my living always be a credit to my church And a sign of my faith in you. Amen. Prayers for Life’s Ordinary and Extraordinary Moments - Mary Lou Redding Today’s Scripture Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Hebrews 13:1-2
Posted on: Sat, 31 Aug 2013 11:46:15 +0000
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