October 08, 2006

I. Readings
Psalms 103, 117, 139
Hosea 5:8-6:6
1 Corinthians 2:6-16
Matthew 14:1-12

II. Selections
Psalm 139:8
If I ascend to heaven, your are there;
if I make my bed in Sheol, your are there.

Hosea 6:3
" ...Let us know, let us press on to know the LORD;
his appearing is as sure as the dawn;
he will come to us like the showers,
like the spring rains that water the earth."
[ According to the LORD, what the people will say when in distress they seek the LORD's favor]

1 Corinthians 2:12
Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit that is from God, so that we may understand the gifts bestowed on us by God.

Matthew 14:6-7
But when Herod's birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and she pleased Herod so much that he promised on oath to grant her whatever she might ask.

III. Meditation: In heaven or in Sheol

An earthly ruler-if pleased with us-
may promise to grant whatever we might ask.
You have far better ways of expressing your favor.

Whether we are in heaven or in Sheol, you are with us;
you are as sure to appear as the dawn or the spring rains.
Give us your Spirit, that we may understand your gifts.