ISSL Reflections January 14 2024 Proverbs 3:1–8 Post 3

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VII.
In speaking of the God’s teaching and commandments, the teacher instructs his listeners to,

“bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.”

What in the words of these proverbs directs you to how that is done?

VIII.
Proverbs 3:1-8 (NRSVue)

My child, do not forget my teaching,
     but let your heart keep my commandments,
for length of days and years of life
     and abundant welfare they will give you.
Do not let loyalty and faithfulness forsake you;
     bind them around your neck;
     write them on the tablet of your heart.
Then you will find favor and high regard
     in the sight of God and of people.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
     and do not rely on your own insight.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
     and he will make straight your paths.
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
     fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
It will be a healing for your flesh
     and a refreshment for your body.

IX.
We hear,

  • “do not forget…,”
  • “Trust in the Lord …,”
  • “… acknowledge him …,”
  • “turn away from evil…,”
  • “Do not be wise in your own eyes…”

Of these and other words of encouragement, what seems to come the easiest for you?

What is more difficult?

Look over the passage again and find the phrase that most helps you understand how you can find God’s “healing … and … refreshment.”

Take those words as part of your prayers for today and the next several days.

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}

ISSL Reflections January 14 2024 Proverbs 3:1–8 Post 2

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IV.
As you read this passage today, pay attention to the promises.

V.
Proverbs 3:1-8 (NRSVue)

My child, do not forget my teaching,
     but let your heart keep my commandments,
for length of days and years of life
     and abundant welfare they will give you.
Do not let loyalty and faithfulness forsake you;
     bind them around your neck;
     write them on the tablet of your heart.
Then you will find favor and high regard
     in the sight of God and of people.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
     and do not rely on your own insight.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
     and he will make straight your paths.
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
     fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
It will be a healing for your flesh
     and a refreshment for your body.

VI.
I notice one promise is, “… Then you will find favor and high regard in the sight of God and of people.”

This is promised to whom? What is required of them to receive what is promised?

We also read, “… he will make straight your paths.”

Does this mean “straight … paths” are promised and it is God not the one keeping the commandments that “make straight” the paths.

In this Psalm do you encounter legalism or grace?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}

ISSL Reflections January 14 2024 Proverbs 3:1–8 Post 1

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I.
A bit over midway in this passage the proverb encourages us to, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart …”

As you spend time with this passage, notice you could see it as a collection of proverbs with a promise accompanying each.

On our first reading let’s take notice of all the ways the hearer is encouraged to “Trust in the Lord….”

II.
Proverbs 3:1-8 (NRSVue)

My child, do not forget my teaching,
     but let your heart keep my commandments,
for length of days and years of life
     and abundant welfare they will give you.
Do not let loyalty and faithfulness forsake you;
     bind them around your neck;
     write them on the tablet of your heart.
Then you will find favor and high regard
     in the sight of God and of people.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
     and do not rely on your own insight.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
     and he will make straight your paths.
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
     fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
It will be a healing for your flesh
     and a refreshment for your body.

III.
What stands out to you the loudest?

“Trust”? “… do not forget…” Or maybe the encouragement to “… bind … write …” the commandments on and in your very body?

Do you really think God’s commandments will bring healing and refreshment?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}

ISSL Reflections January 7 2024 Hebrews 11:1–4a, 7a, 8, 17–18, 20–23, 32, 39–40 Post 3

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VII.
Did you notice this,

“And what more should I say? For time would fail me to tell of … “ (Hebrews 11:32)

The writer of Hebrews goes on to suggest a few more names to add to his list.

Read this passage once again and then let’s return to consider who we might add.

VIII.
Hebrews 11:1–4a, 7a, 8, 17–18, 20–23, 32, 39–40 (NRSVue)

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.

By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain’s. Through this he received approval as righteous, God himself giving approval to his gifts; he died, but through his faith he still speaks.

By faith Noah, warned by God about events as yet unseen, respected the warning and built an ark to save his household; by this he condemned the world and became an heir to the righteousness that is in accordance with faith.

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance, and he set out, not knowing where he was going.

By faith Abraham, when put to the test, offered up Isaac. He who had received the promises was ready to offer up his only son, of whom he had been told, “It is through Isaac that descendants shall be named for you.”

By faith Isaac invoked blessings for the future on Jacob and Esau. By faith Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, “bowing in worship over the top of his staff.” By faith Joseph, at the end of his life, made mention of the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his burial.

By faith Moses was hidden by his parents for three months after his birth, because they saw that the child was beautiful, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.

And what more should I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets,

Yet all these, though they were commended for their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better so that they would not, apart from us, be made perfect.

IX.
Let’s take some time to consider who is in your “Faith Hall of Fame.”

Not Scriptural personages, but those who have modeled faith for you. Maybe they are family, teachers, friends, authors. Who has given you a handle on what faith is, what it can be, and what form faith takes in your life.

One more thing – are there those who might name you in their “Faith Hall of Fame”?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}

ISSL Reflections January 7 2024 Hebrews 11:1–4a, 7a, 8, 17–18, 20–23, 32, 39–40 Post 2

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IV.
This passage starts with what we could call a definition of faith.

Take some time to look at verse 1 in several translations and notice the differences in the translations.

V.
Hebrews 11:1–4a, 7a, 8, 17–18, 20–23, 32, 39–40 (NRSVue)

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.

By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain’s. Through this he received approval as righteous, God himself giving approval to his gifts; he died, but through his faith he still speaks.

By faith Noah, warned by God about events as yet unseen, respected the warning and built an ark to save his household; by this he condemned the world and became an heir to the righteousness that is in accordance with faith.

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance, and he set out, not knowing where he was going.

By faith Abraham, when put to the test, offered up Isaac. He who had received the promises was ready to offer up his only son, of whom he had been told, “It is through Isaac that descendants shall be named for you.”

By faith Isaac invoked blessings for the future on Jacob and Esau. By faith Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, “bowing in worship over the top of his staff.” By faith Joseph, at the end of his life, made mention of the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his burial.

By faith Moses was hidden by his parents for three months after his birth, because they saw that the child was beautiful, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.

And what more should I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets,

Yet all these, though they were commended for their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better so that they would not, apart from us, be made perfect.

VI.
Below are several translations –

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (New Revisied Standard Version, updated edition)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (King James Version)

Faith is the reality of what we hope for, the proof of what we don’t see. (Common English Bible)

Faith makes us sure of what we hope for and gives us proof of what we cannot see. (Contemporary English Version)

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. (English Standard Version)

To have faith is to be sure of the things we hope for, to be certain of the things we cannot see. (Good News Translation)

Now faith means putting our full confidence in the things we hope for, it means being certain of things we cannot see. (Phillips Translation)

Now faith is the realization of what is hoped for, the proof of things not seen. (Lexham English Bible)

The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It’s our handle on what we can’t see. (The Message)

Now faith is the certainty of things hoped for, a proof of things not seen. (New American Standard Bible)

Faith means being sure of the things we hope for and knowing that something is real even if we do not see it. (New Century Version)

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, being convinced of what we do not see. (New English Translation)

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. (New International Version)

Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. (New Living Translation)

Have I included your most often used translation(s)? Have I left out a favorite translation of yours?

Does any one of these help you get a better grasp of how faith operates for you?

How would you describe or explain faith to someone?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}

ISSL Reflections January 7 2024 Hebrews 11:1–4a, 7a, 8, 17–18, 20–23, 32, 39–40 Post 1

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I.
On this first day of 2024 we turn our attention for a time to what many call the “Faith Hall of Fame, Hebrews 11.”

The writer of Hebrews connects faith, hope and approval.

Notice those connections in the names mentioned in this Scripture passage.

II.
Hebrews 11:1–4a, 7a, 8, 17–18, 20–23, 32, 39–40 (NRSVue)

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible.

By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain’s. Through this he received approval as righteous, God himself giving approval to his gifts; he died, but through his faith he still speaks.

By faith Noah, warned by God about events as yet unseen, respected the warning and built an ark to save his household; by this he condemned the world and became an heir to the righteousness that is in accordance with faith.

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance, and he set out, not knowing where he was going.

By faith Abraham, when put to the test, offered up Isaac. He who had received the promises was ready to offer up his only son, of whom he had been told, “It is through Isaac that descendants shall be named for you.”

By faith Isaac invoked blessings for the future on Jacob and Esau. By faith Jacob, when dying, blessed each of the sons of Joseph, “bowing in worship over the top of his staff.” By faith Joseph, at the end of his life, made mention of the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his burial.

By faith Moses was hidden by his parents for three months after his birth, because they saw that the child was beautiful, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.

And what more should I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets,

Yet all these, though they were commended for their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better so that they would not, apart from us, be made perfect.

III.
Focus on one or two of those mentioned.

How do you see the connection of faith and hope for them?

As you enter this new year, what are your hopes?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Desu ibi est}

ISSL Reflections December 31 2023 Matthew 2:1–12 Post 2

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IV.
Notice who has questions, who is frightened, who has answers, who is willing to travel in search of one who is due homage, who pays attention to stars, ancient writings, and dreams, and who finds joy.

V.
Matthew 2:1-12 (NRSVue)

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, magi from the east came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star in the east and have come to pay him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him, and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. hey told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it has been written by the prophet:

‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
     are by no means least among the rulers of Judah,
for from you shall come a ruler
     who is to shepherd my people Israel.’ ”

Then Herod secretly called for the magi and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.” When they had heard the king, they set out, and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen in the east, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.

VI.
Why is Herod frightened? Why does he misrepresent his desire to see the child?

The magi are on a quest. It seems they did not fully know where the quest would take them. Yet, in their journey they found joy. What else do you think they found?

Think about journeys you have been on. What did you expect of the journey? Did the journey reward you? How?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}

ISSL Reflections December 31 2023 Matthew 2:1–12 Post 1

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I.
As you read this passage, take note of each person mentioned, what they say and as best you can, what you can discern of their motives for their presence in this scene.

II.
Matthew 2:1-12 (NRSVue)

In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, magi from the east came to Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star in the east and have come to pay him homage.” When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him, and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. hey told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it has been written by the prophet:

‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah,
for from you shall come a ruler
who is to shepherd my people Israel.’ ”

Then Herod secretly called for the magi and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.” When they had heard the king, they set out, and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen in the east, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.

III.
Let’s start with King Herod. What does he say his intent is? How well informed is he of what constitutes being the rightful king of his territory? How “secure” do you think he is in his kingship?

We hear about “magi” (probably prominent astrologers from a kingdom east of Israel) who have traveled to Israel to show “homage” to one destined for kingship. We also hear Herod calling for his priests and scribes to give him some understanding of what the magi are seeking. How would you contrast the wise men from the east and Herod’s wise men?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}

Christmas Day 2023

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May you richly experience the blessings of Christmas on this Holy Day.

Instead of sharing today regarding our lesson for this coming Sunday, let’s turn our attention to the account of the birth of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Luke. Spend time with the images and the encouragement you find there.

Luke 2:1-20 (NRSVue)

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. 5 He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. hile they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no place in the guest room.

Now in that same region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for see, I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace among those whom he favors!”

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them, and Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told them.

ISSL Reflections December 24 2023 Luke 1:36–45, 56 Post 3

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VII.
Mary says,
“Here am I, the servant of the Lord;
let it be with me according to your word.”

How is she able to manifest such submission – obedience – faith?

VIII.
Luke 1:36-45, 56 (NRSVue)

“And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And why has this happened to me, that the mother of my Lord comes to me? For as soon as I heard the sound of your greeting, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.”

And Mary remained with her about three months and then returned to her home.

IX.
Did she need to hear from Gabriel,

“For nothing will be impossible with God”?

Or maybe that,

“… favored one! The Lord is with you…. Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.” (Luke 1:28, 30)

Did one or both of those assurances from the angel to give her the spirit she needed to reply with “… here I am”?

Or, was it something already in her spirit? After all, it seems she was already favored by God.

What in your spirit has God already recognized and is waiting for you to recognize?

charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}