October 11, 2006

I. Readings
Psalms 1, 33, 89:1-18
Hosea 8:1-14
Acts 23:23-35
Luke 7:18-35

II. Selections
Psalm 33:22
Let your steadfast love, O LORD, be upon us,
even as we hope in you.

Hosea 8:11
When Ephraim multiplied altars to expiate sin,
they became to him altars for sinning.

Acts 23:30
" ...When I was informed that there would be a plot against [ Paul], I sent him to you at once, ordering his accusers also to state before you what they have against him." [ Claudius Lysias, the Roman tribune, in a letter to Felix, the governor]

Luke 7:35
" ...Nevertheless, wisdom is vindicated by all her children."

III. Meditation: Vindicated by all her children

The Roman tribune felt wise, judicious,
when he sent Paul to the governor for trial;
but the tribune's justice was wanting in wisdom.

When we multiply altars to make amends for our sin,
these become to us altars for still greater sinning;
our self-justification fails for want of wisdom.

But if we give up the struggle and childlike
allow your wisdom to work its way,
then we feel your steadfast love;
for our hope is only in you.