Scripture for the Fourth Sunday in Lent
March 22, 2020
Ephesians 5:8-14
John 9:1-41
1 Samuel 16:1-13
Ephesians 5:8-14 New International Version (NIV)
For you were once darkness,
but now you are light in the Lord.
Live as children of light...
(for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth)
...and find out what pleases the Lord.
Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness,
but rather expose them.
It is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret.
But everything exposed by the light becomes visible
—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light.
This is why it is said:
“Wake up, sleeper,
rise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you.”
John 9:5-7
(Jesus said) As long as I am in the world,
I am the light of the world."
When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva and spread the mud on the man's eyes, saying to him,
"Go, wash in the pool of Siloam"
(which means Sent).
Then he went and washed and came back able to see.
First Samuel 16:1-13 can be found in this PDF file.
The recording below, entitled "Choosing a Leader" contains a reflection on the passage by the Rev. Patty Fox
Questions based on First Samuel 16:1-13
-
As you met with the sons of Jesse, how did your assumptions based on appearances affect the way you interacted with the family?
-
A true heart is the desire of God, but how do you define true? (refer to the Ephesians passage for some suggestions)
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What criteria did you use when you picked the new king? Do you use those same criteria when you choose current leaders? Does appearance matter? How about profession? Age? Social standing?
-
Samuel listened to the voice of God to guide his decision making. How do you listen to God's voice? Do you have a particular time or place for listening?
-
The readings from Ephesians and the Gospel of John focus on light and vision. In both Jesus is identified as the One who makes clear what is pleasing to God. He is the light and we are children of the light. How then are we to live as beings of light, especially during this time of uncertainty and fear?
And now for some music!
Our youngest member, Mr. Brady Graham, has gifted us with this rendition of Holy, Holy, Holy.
Prayer
Living Light,
Shine through me.
May my heart be true.
May I act out of goodness,
and love with my whole being,
just as you love me.
My eyes are open,
and I ask for your guidance
as leadership of those
who are true of heart
is sought.
My ears are open,
and I listen for your voice
as I travel unknown paths.
My heart is open,
as I send prayers of healing
for those who are ill.
I hold them in love this day.
These things I pray,
in the name of Your son,
Jesus the Christ,
Amen.