January 23, 2006

I. Readings
Psalms 47, 57, 85
Genesis 14:1-24
Hebrews 8:1-13
John 4:43-54

II. Selections
Psalm 85:8
Let me hear what God the LORD will speak,
for he will speak peace to his people,
to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.

Genesis 14:22-23
But Abram said to the king of Sodom, "I have sworn to the LORD, God Most High, maker of heaven and earth, that I would not take a thread or a sandal-thong or anything that is yours, so that you might not say, 'I have made Abram rich.' ..."

Hebrews 8:6
But Jesus has now obtained a more excellent ministry, and to that degree he is the mediator of a better covenant, which has been enacted through better promises.

John 4:48-49
Then Jesus said to [ the royal official], "Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe." The official said to him, "Sir, come down before my little boy dies."

III. Meditation: Turning
Abram refused even the smallest booty
from the king of Sodom.
Abram did not want to be in the king's debt-
apparently a matter of pride.

One royal official set pride aside
and turned to Jesus.
He had heard of signs and wonders,
and his son was dying.

In our own dire need we turn to Jesus,
who has obtained a more excellent ministry
and is the mediator of a better covenant,
enacted through better promises.

Let us hear what you will speak,
for you will speak peace to your people,
to your faithful,
to those who turn to you in their hearts.