August 07, 2006

I. Readings
Psalms 9, 62, 73
Judges 6:25-40
Acts 2:37-47
John 1:1-18

II. Selections
Psalm 73:2-3
But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled;
my steps had nearly slipped.
For I was envious of the arrogant;
I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

Judges 6:31
But Joash said to all who were arrayed against him, "Will you contend for Baal? Or will you defend his cause? Whoever contends for him shall be put to death by morning. If he is a god, let him contend for himself, because his altar has been pulled down."

Acts 2:39
" ...For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him." [ Peter, to the crowd at Pentecost]

John 1:16
From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.

III. Meditation: Grace upon grace

We admire, even envy, those in proud positions,
the wicked who luxuriate in their prosperity.
Forgive us.

We worship false gods-go so far as to defend them
after their altars have been pulled down.
Reform us.

You have called us, and given us a promise-
us and our children, and people far away.
Restore us.

For from your fullness we have all received,
grace upon grace.
Redeem us.