Today’s Reflection
Jesus was a storyteller. When crowds gathered around him, Jesus often told them stories to illustrate spiritual truths. …
Through simple, clear stories, Jesus spoke to the crowds who followed him in a manner that was familiar to their culture, but not necessarily the way of one educated in the Law. The message of Jesus was one of relationship, and he chose a relational way to share that message. The disciples and the apostles would share those same stories.
—Ray Buckley, Dancing with Words: Storytelling as Legacy, Culture, and Faith (Discipleship Resources, 2004)
Today’s Question
What are your favorite stories that Jesus told? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
A legal expert stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he said, “what must I do to gain eternal life?” Jesus replied, “What is written in the Law? How do you interpret it?” … But the legal expert wanted to prove that he was right, so he said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”
Jesus replied, “A man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. He encountered thieves, who stripped him naked, beat him up, and left him near death. Now it just so happened that a priest was also going down the same road. When he saw the injured man, he crossed over to the other side of the road and went on his way. …
—Luke 10: 25-26, 29-31 (CEB)
Prayer for the Week
Holy God, help us as we sift through the memories of our lives. Guide us to ponder the power of storytelling and to use our stories to help others. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Learn from this week’s featured author, Ray Buckley, and other spiritual guides at our virtual event, RESILIENCE | Practicing Compassion in a World of Conflict. On September 29-30, 2023, we will explore the transformative power of compassion in a world marked by division. Receive $25 off General Admission when you use the code NEW at checkout. Learn more and register today at UpperRoom.org/resilience.
Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.
3 Comments
Noah and Jesus’s resurection.
I love the story of the Good Samaritan. It illustrates that God uses those who have hearts of compassion for others. And the prodigal son: God welcomes us back regardless of what we have done.
Yes, Ally – the prodigal son came immediately to mind. For so long, I thought it was about the prodigal son. But – there is so much to be gleaned from his brother. And of course, the unconditional love of the Father. It is pretty incredible, the parables Christ used. He used them to answer a question, to silence His critics, to awaken His disciples. And – they are pertinent to all of us. I see multiple learning principles from many of them. The parable of the virgin and their lamps comes to my mind. There is the obvious application, but I would contend there is another to be had.
Having dinner at my friend’s house this evening, and then working through a couple chapters of the book we are working our way through.
Yesterday was very full, with a trip to the dentist after school and then the grief support meeting. My friend has yet to attend – she had another work function last night. I am beginning to wonder if she will come at all. I know it will be hard for her. I will be there next week, but have surgery the following Wednesday.
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