Daily Office Readings for Wednesday of Holy Week: Year 2
Psalm 55; Psalm 74 Lam. 2:1-9; 2 Cor. 1:23-2:11; Mark 12:1-11
Psalm 74: 8 – 11
8. There are no signs for us to see; there is no prophet left; there is not one among us who knows how long.
9. How long, O God, will the adversary scoff? Will the enemy blaspheme your Name forever?
10. Why do you draw back your hand? Why is your right hand hidden in your bosom?
11. Yet God is my King from ancient times, victorious in the midst of the earth.
These words from Psalm 74 seem appropriate for today as the world goes through the Covid 19 pandemic. I guess verse 11 brings hope. I spoke with a dear friend last night who reminded me of the preacher who was sent two boats and a helicopter as a flood was devastating his town. The preacher refused to let the boats or helicopter save him not realizing that this was indeed God’s way of saving him. God uses us for us.
God has taught us about physical distancing, the wearing of masks, and is teaching us about various medications. This is happening as I am writing this journal. We just need to put into practice what the Spirit is guiding us to do. God is our King from ancient times, victorious in the midst of the earth. Thank you Lord Jesus
Let us hear what the Spirit is saying to and through the saints of God and then ponder anew what the Almighty can do. John
“Today we remember William Augustus Muhlenberg who was born in Philadelphia in 1796, into a prominent German Lutheran family, and was drawn to The Episcopal Church by its use of English. He deliberately chose to remain unmarried to free himself for a variety of ministries. He was deeply involved in the Sunday School movement, and was concerned that the Church should minister to all social groups. Aware of the limitations of the hymnody of his time, he wrote hymns and compiled hymnals, thus widening the range of music in Episcopal churches. The use of music, flowers, and color, and the emphasis on the church year in worship, became a potent influence. In 1846, he founded the Church of the Holy Communion in New York City. Again, he was bold and innovative: free pews for everyone, a parish school, a parish unemployment fund, and trips to the country for poor city children. His conception of beauty in worship, vivid and symbolic, had at its heart the Holy Communion itself, celebrated every Sunday. Many of his principles are set forth in the Muhlenberg Memorial to General Convention in 1853.” (Great Cloud of Witness for April 8)
onewhoponders 