April 17, 2008

I. Readings
Psalms 47, 68, 113
Exodus 34:1-17
1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
Matthew 5:21-26

II. Selections
Psalm 113:4
The LORD is high above all nations,
and his glory above the heavens.

Exodus 34:6
The LORD passed before [ Moses], and proclaimed,
"The LORD, the LORD,
a God merciful and gracious,
slow to anger,
and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness ... "

1 Thessalonians 2:17
As for us, brothers and sisters, when, for a short time, we were made orphans by being separated from you-in person, not in heart-we longed with great eagerness to see you face to face.

Matthew 5:22
" ...But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgment; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and if you say, 'You fool,' you will be liable to the hell of fire. ... " [ Jesus, seated on the mountain, speaking to the crowds]

III. Meditation: Slow or quick to anger

You are high above all nations,
and your glory above the heavens;
yet you are merciful and gracious,
slow to anger, and abounding in
steadfast love and faithfulness.

Those we love are close at hand;
when separated from them, we
long with eagerness to see them.
Yet when with them, we often
are quick to anger. Forgive us.