Today’s Reflection
The Psalms demonstrate that any words—even despondent, angry, or violent words—can be constructive if and when addressed to God. (Seriously, if you haven’t read the Psalms, take a look; they contain a full range of human emotion. Some of them are downright shocking.) As disappointed, frustrated, or lost as you may feel from time to time, dare to address your disappointment, frustration, and anguish in prayer to God rather than letting a sense of propriety or shame sucker you into letting the conversation lapse—either by putting on airs of piety or cutting off communication entirely. Candor with God is key.
—Matthew Croasmun, Let Me Ask You a Question: Conversations with Jesus (Upper Room Books 2018)
Today’s Question
When you speak to a your closest friends, do you worry about how you talk? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their cry.
—Psalm 34:15 (NRSV)
Prayer for the Week
Lord, help me know the difference between what you ask of me and what the world asks of me.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
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Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
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2 Comments
Yes, although there is a broader range of what you can say since they are friends. You still don’t want to hurt anyone.
Two Sundays and our new, long awaited, didn’t know if it would happen Pastor will lead us in worship with Communion. It seems like an eternity since our last pastor retired, had a second pastor for a few months and until the first Sunday in September 2023 we have struggled and persevered. Thank You, Lord.
Sunday blessings to all.
I would have to say yes. I think about the short temper/low ceiling I have for some of the comments my sister will make. I just can’t hardly receive them. Yet, if my closest friends express the same sentiments – I hear them, I receive them and generally I am grateful for them.
I think also of my responses to dad – I lack the patience, at times with him, especially with his hearing, or lack thereof. And, I know, I am more patient with others.
It has been such a blessing to me – to understand lament, and to incorporate it into my life these past few years. And this summer, I was able to share so much about it with my friend who got divorced. God wants our honesty. I am grateful for His unceasing love, despite my range of emotions.
I went with my friend to her new church home today. It was interesting to sit through the service and take it all in. It was good to be back at my church also.
Tennis this afternoon – possibly the last time I will play before my surgery. Other members of our foursome are travelling in the weekends to come. I did yardwork when I got home, as the week ahead is busy – and I figured I might as well get grungier before taking a shower.
Back to school tomorrow. Beginning year 31. Kinda hard to believe. Students come Thursday.
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