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November 18, 2007 - 25th Sunday after Pentecost
See, the day is coming, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers
will be stubble; the day that comes shall burn them up, says the LORD of hosts,
so that it will leave them neither root nor branch. But for you who revere my name
the sun of righteousness shall rise, with healing in its wings.
-- Malachi 4:1-2a
Malachi is the last book of the Old Testament. We are left with a pretty bleak
picture of life in this text, but it is into this scene of desolation that Jesus arrives
to bring new life and healing.
Isn't that the way of God? Just when all seems lost, we are found. Just when we give
up we are welcomed with open arms. Just when the world seems beyond saving, God sends
Jesus in love. Just when death seems to have the last word, Jesus speaks new life.
Where do you experience desolation? In your life? In the world? Watch and wait...
grace will come.
We pray: O God, the protector of all who trust in you, without you nothing
is strong, nothing is holy. Embrace us with your mercy, that with you as our ruler and
guide, we may live through what is temporary without losing what is eternal,
through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen
Lessons for the 25th Sunday after Pentecost:
- Psalm 98
- Malachi 4:1-2a
- 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13
- Luke 21:5-19
Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible,
copyright © 1989, Division of Christian Education of the
National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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