A Choice, and Another Choice--Aug. 8, 2021

[From Aug. 13, 2017 archive]

 

We have a choice--to seek gratification 

at the expense of the other person,

or to rejoice in the other's success,

even if it comes at our own expense. 

 

If we are strong, we have another choice--

to become angry at the failings of the weak, 

or to put up with them, not to please ourselves,

but for the purpose of building up the weaker one.

 

Search me, O God, try me and know my heart,

and lead me away from all wicked ways

and into your way everlasting.

 

Lectionary Readings

Ps. 103; 150; 117; 139

2 Sam. 13:1-22

Rom. 15:1-13

John 3:22-36

 

Selected Verses 

Ps. 139:23-24

Search me, O God, and know my heart; 
          test me and know my thoughts. 
See if there is any wicked way in me, 
          and lead me in the way everlasting.

 

2 Sam. 13:16

But [Tamar] said to [Amnon], "No, my brother; for this wrong in sending me away is greater than the other that you did to me." But he would not listen to her. 

 

Rom. 15:1-2

We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.  Each of us must please our neighbor for the good purpose of building up the neighbor.

 

John 3:29b-30

"…The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom’s voice.  For this reason my joy has been fulfilled.  He must increase, but I must decrease."  [John the Baptizer, to his disciples]