April 15, 2010

As Much As We Need, Not More

I. Readings
Psalms 47, 147:12-20, 68, 113
Exodus 16:10-22
1 Peter 2:11-3:12
John 15:12-27

II. Selections
Psalm 68:10
…your flock found a dwelling in [your heritage];
      in your goodness, O God, you provided for the needy.

Exodus 16:15c-16a
Moses said to [the Israelites], “It is the bread that the LORD has given you to eat. This is what the LORD has commanded: ‘Gather as much of it as each of you needs… ’ ”

1 Peter 2:25
For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.

John 15:16
“…You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name. … ” [Jesus to the eleven disciples, after Judas had left to betray him]

III. Meditation

We did not choose you; you chose us.
We have gone astray like sheep;
we return to you, Shepherd,
Guardian of our souls,
that we may dwell
in your heritage
and bear fruit
in your name.
In your goodness
provide for the needy.
Give each as much bread
as we need; but as we gather it,
remind us—your gifts are to share.