Lectionary Reading 19 July
Bible Reading. Genesis 28:10-19
Jacob is on his way to find a wife and secure his future. He would have set out with some trepidation for he had left behind a fractured relationship with his brother Esau whose birthright he had stolen. So it would have been with a troubled mind that he set out. On the journey he stopped and made camp for the night. His dream is vivid and on awaking it is still remembered. The dream reassures him that the covenant made with Abraham and Isaac remains in place for him just as it did with his forebears. The faithfulness of the Lord God is once more affirmed, the covenant is ongoing. More than that Jacob gets confirmation that God and the actions of God are closely linked to the situation on earth. The ladder symbolises that God is actively involved in the workings of his creation. Jacob responds by recognising that he has camped in a holy place and names it Bethel, the house of God. Jacob has set out on a journey that will change his life in ways he could never have imagined, but he sets out with renewed assurance. This passage is firmly embedded in the story of Israel and still has much to say to us today. Not least is the faithfulness of God to always be true to his word. The ladder reaching upward also reminds us that God is actively involved in his world. As we picture the angels moving back and forth along the ladder we see them for what they are, God’s messengers obediently going about their God given tasks. How comforting is that picture for each of us today as we face unsettled times, to know that God is actively involved in the welfare of all creation.
Prayer. Faithful God we give you all thanks and praise for your presence among us. In all situations you are with us, both to sustain and to guide. Keep us always looking to you for the wisdom and insight that will support us through these present times: Trusting in your sovereignty grant us good success as we placed our confidence in you alone. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23 (NRSV)
Bible Reading. Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24. The psalm for today reflects the same understanding that Jacob’s ladder described, that God is never absent from those who love him. The presence of God is always there in every situation. In times of trouble and need there is great comfort in knowing that God’s presence is close at hand. The great Creator God is also the faithful God of all comfort. The psalm ends by reminding us that God not only stays with us to comfort, but also to guide and direct. “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts”. Psalm 139:23 (NRSV) This challenges us to be open to correction and when necessary to equally be open to change. God is aware of everything about us; even the things we might think are forgotten and completely gone from memory. To come under such scrutiny is for some people a frightening concept, it would be frightening for any of us if we did not know how caring and compassionate God is when dealing with us. Nothing of what we are or what we can do will ever surprise God. God knows us so well he can protect and guide, he can also bring us a great sense of peace knowing that we are always in his care. God surrounds us in the flow of life and not only protects but also blesses us by placing his hand on us.
Prayer. Today we rejoice in the knowledge of your presence Lord. Your light and peace shine on and around us constantly and so we need never be afraid. We praise you for all that in Jesus Christ you have done and ask that we continue to walk in the paths that he has directed for us.
In the peace of this day we pray for all those in our world who do not know peace; those whose lives are disrupted by violence and oppression. In particular we pray for those suffering from being isolated and separated from loved ones and family. May they find protection and comfort from their distress. Grant that the human community will work together to find new and effective ways to live in the new reality of a global pandemic. Gracious Lord may we not be complacent in the face of so much tragedy but seek always to be guided by you into Christ centred action for the good of others. This we ask in his name. Amen
Collect. O God, you have prepared for those who love you joys beyond understanding. Pour into our hearts such love for you that, loving you above all things, we may obtain your promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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