This week’s passages are
from Psalm 42:1-7 and Luke 8:26-39.
Psalm 42
Psalm 42 is a lament which was written at a time when the psalmist
was feeling spiritually empty. It has been used by many people over the
centuries to express moments of depression and despair, loneliness and
vulnerability. It depicts the plight of humanity feeling separated from God.
Psalms 42, 43, and 73 express similar thoughts and prayers. The
writer is spiritually weary and almost burnt out, which is a common complaint
among many Christians today. Church membership can be highly demanding of our
time, commitment, and resources. Burnout generally occurs when we focus on what
we want to do, rather than seeking God’s will. The secret to a joyful faith and
a healthy spiritual relationship is not to overextend our obligations, but
instead specialize in what we can do effectively and efficiently for what God
calls us to accomplish.
Questions for study and
reflection
How does the psalmist
express his spiritual emptiness? What reduces him to tears each day?
What things does he remember
about worshiping God? Why were those joyful occasions?
What do you think is
causing him to be downcast and disturbed about his faith? Have you ever had a similar
experience?
How should praising God
lift our spirits? Is this what worship is all about, or is it just a side
effect?
Luke 8:26-39
It has been said that the quality of
any society or civilization can be seen in how it treats those who are mentally
ill. In today’s passage, we read about Christ’s encounter with a very disturbed
person. The community has tried to shackle the ‘demon-possessed’ man, in order
to keep him under control. He lives in a cemetery where only the dead provide
him with company.
The story is a remarkable and
puzzling episode in Christ’s ministry. The high point is the curing of the
disturbed man, but at a high cost to the economy of the local community and
livestock. Despite the miracle’s success, Jesus is asked to leave the region,
for the people fear Him.
Questions for study and
reflection
Why do you think Jesus
was immediately confronted by the disturbed man when He went ashore? What was
Christ’s response?
Why did Jesus ask the
man His name? Who was He actually talking to?
Why did the demons beg
to be allowed to possess the herd of pigs? Why were they so afraid of Christ?
The local community were
astounded that the ‘demoniac’ had been cured, but what upset them about this
miracle?
Why did the cured man
ask to go with Jesus? What was Christ’s reply? Why?
How do we treat mentally
disturbed people in our own community? Is this Christ-like?
Any other thoughts or
questions?
Next Sunday’s readings: Psalm
16:1-8 & Luke 9:51-62
No comments:
Post a Comment