Vindication and Justice for the Oppressed--Nov. 5, 2017

Those, who like me have an abundant supply

of food, drink, and clothing--and who,

also like me, are never satisfied with what we have--

need to hear that we should cease worrying

and depend upon you, O Lord, to supply our needs.

But remind us that there are millions who

are unable to break bread together until the dawn--

they are the oppressed, with no bread to eat

 for themselves, let alone to sit and share with others.

Forbid it that I should ever tell myself there

is no need for me to give, because you will provide.

Remind me: you work vindication and justice

for all who are oppressed, and I may be the oppressor.

Lectionary Readings

Ps. 103; 150; 117; 139

Neh. 5:1-9

Acts 20:7-12

Luke 12:22-31

Selected Verses

Ps. 103:6

The LORD works vindication
          and justice for all who are oppressed. 

Neh. 5:2

For there were those who said, "With our sons and our daughters, we are many; we must get grain, so that we may eat and stay alive."

Acts 20:11

Then Paul went upstairs, and after he had broken bread and eaten, he continued to converse with them until dawn; then he left. 

Luke 12:30-31

"…For it is the nations of the world that strive after all these things [food, drink, and clothing], and your Father knows that you need them.  Instead, strive for his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well."  [Jesus to his disciples]