May 10, 2006

I. Readings
Psalms 9, 99, 118
Exodus 33:1-23
1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Matthew 5:17-20

II. Selections
Psalm 99:4
Mighty King, lover of justice,
you have established equity;
you have executed justice
and righteousness in Jacob.

Exodus 33:19
And [ the LORD] said [ to Moses], "I will make all my goodness pass before you, and will proclaim before you the name, 'The LORD'; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. ..."

1 Thessalonians 2:8
So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you have become very dear to us.

Matthew 5:19
Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

III. Meditation: How to share, and how to care
We have seen your goodness pass before us,
heard your name,
received your grace and mercy ...
how dismal our response.

You love justice, equity, righteousness;
we break your commandments,
teach others to do the same.
God, lead us to repent.

And show us, as we share your gospel,
how to care for those with whom we share,
and how to share our selves;
and keep us faithful to your Word.