SCRIPTURE READINGS
Old Testament: Isaiah 56:1, 6–8
Psalm: Psalm 67
Epistle: Romans 11:1–2a, 13–15, 28–32
Gospel: Matthew 15:21–28
THEME FOR WORSHIP
In today’s Gospel reading, we find a Canaanite woman engaging Jesus in a very challenging conversation. You & I may have more in common with in this Canaanite woman than we realize.
Their conversation raises questions which you & I must confront. Did Jesus come for you, or only for others? Is God’s mercy enough for you to be included? Does God even hear your prayers and cries? Will we be satisfied if we are only given crumbs from God’s table?
SCRIPTURE READINGS
Old Testament: Job 38:4–18
Psalm: Psalm 18:1–6
Epistle: Romans 10:5–17
Gospel: Matthew 14:22–33
THEME FOR WORSHIP
In today’s Gospel text, Jesus’ disciples are struggling in their little boat, very late in the darkness of night, pushing against the winds and beaten by the waves. Don’t these images describe your life and mine on some days and weeks? We struggle & suffer and seem to make no good progress or headway.
But Jesus’ disciples really become terrified when they see Jesus walking on the water near their boat. “It’s a ghost!” they exclaim. Then Jesus speaks these precious and reassuring words: “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” Let those words sink into your heart and life today. God promises to always remain with you, and this assurance takes away your fear, even though it’s hard for us to let go.
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