Today’s Reflection
There is a thread, quite apart from the genealogies and genetic markers that run in endless lists through the history of our spiritual ancestors. There is a thread that links drops of water in a flood; there is a Spirit, brooding over the deep waters, which are without form, and void, before the creation of the world. … There is a river that flows from the throne of God, and over its currents, enjoying the lift and play of the air, I imagine the Spirit swooping, and diving, resting and blessing, now as then, the sacrifice of baptism.
—Rosalind C. Hughes, A Family Like Mine: Biblical Stories of Love, Loss, and Longing (Upper Room Books, 2020)
Today’s Question
What connections do you notice as you think about the Spirit’s role in creation, flood, the river of God, baptism? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
You are one body and one spirit, just as God also called you in one hope. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all, who is over all, through all, and in all.
—Ephesians 4:4-6 (CEB)
Prayer for the Week
God, who is both Father and Mother, I give thanks for your unconditional love, protection, and guidance.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Join The Upper Room on September 30–October 2, 2021, as we create space to reflect on the past 18 months of individual and collective trauma. Our virtual event, RESILIENCE | Healing Practices for Mind, Body, and Spirit, will include storytelling, time for personal reflection and conversation, guided spiritual practice, and worship. Don’t miss out on Early Registration pricing that ends August 30. Learn more here.
Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
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4 Comments
I have not thought about t the Spirit’s role in creation, flood, the river of God, baptism. I accept that God is my/our creator. Am preparing for my second meeting with my in person mental health counselor on Monday. Thankful I can walk there. Have provided material and have more to give.
Had a good visit with my daughter, have input from her as well as my son. Church tomorrow, am glad of that. Neither of my children believe. Have a blessed weekend. Thank You, Lord.
Neither have I ever thought of this. But I can see where the author is leading our thoughts, that God often uses water to create something better or transform something to a better version of itself.
Prayers for April and her family and Lou and her family. Prayers for Ally and David, may their health and finances improve. Prayers for Larry, for his continued recovery from health issues and prayers for Jill as she continues to deal with so many competing obligations. Prayers of gratitude that Robert arrived home safely and that he sees his counselor soon. May he be given insight as to how to handle Erich’s difficulties. Megan is not a believer either, but she is not derisive of mine either. She support me in my religious pursuits and is positive about me going back to church. Prayers for Marti and her staff. Thank you for your prayers and may God bless all who come here.
Good morning all, our internet has been down for a couple of days. Water is symbolic throughout the scriptures. It symbolizes life and the movement of the Spirit as giver of life. Water is powerful. It made the Grand Canyon. It can make electricity. If natural water can do that, what can the Holy Spirit accomplish in me? Prayers for our families, that those who do not believe will find the Lord, will see Jesus in us. Busy day ahead. Love to all! Be safe!
Have never even considered anything like this before…not sure what to make of it. I am not even sure what to think of “the River of God”.
Up very early this morning to help my photographer friend and her husband set up their space for an art fair. Luckily it wasn’t too warm while we were setting up. I got to walk around the art fair afterwards. I think it is the biggest one I have been to this year. One I always hit with mom. The show was about an hour away. Hit a few stores, unique to that area before coming home.
Spoke with dad – and he isn’t feeling well. I don’t know what to make of this. It has been over two weeks since we were at the ER. This morning his stomach was bothering him. He is going to stay home from church tomorrow. I encouraged him to cancel our golf on Monday, as it is supposed to be 94. I think he is finally getting concerned about this – he is discouraged to not be back to his old self.
Caught up with my best friend – who is in the middle of moving. She said they are about 90% moved in. Depending on where they are in the unpacking stage – I may go to their new home tomorrow and help out. I only have church planned in the morning.
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