Psalm 50:1-8
Psalm
50 is about the almightiness of God and contains some very harsh words of
condemnation upon religious people who choose to ignore God’s commands. In
effect, what is expressed is God’s anger against those who would seek
perfection in making sanctimonious sacrifices and the keeping of religious
rites rather than actually living by God’s Word.
In
our present pluralistic culture, Psalm 50 is highly relevant. It should make us
all ponder over how we practice our faith. Do we express it in terms of religious
obligations, or do we convey it in merciful deeds?
Questions for study and reflection
The first couple of verses present
an image of God authoritatively summoning the Earth into His presence each
morning. How do we initially approach God on a daily basis?
The psalmist writes about God being
Judge of all the Earth. How does this type of imagery relate to our own beliefs?
God is portrayed as being angry
because of the religious hypocrisy of His people. Are we prone to the same sin?
Give examples.
In the second half of the psalm, God
declares the wicked to be those who hate God’s commands and set aside His
words. Is this still happening in the Church today? Why/why not?
Psalm 50 is not a comfortable psalm
to read. How does it still challenge us today?
Luke 12:32-40
Today’s
verses cover two important areas in the life of any Christian. Firstly, we are
meant to be generous with our belongings and share them with the poor. We are
not to spend our lives increasing our possessions, because they will eventually
possess us and we may lose God.
Secondly,
we are to live our lives expecting the Lord at any time. Christians are meant
to believe that Jesus will return to Earth one day. As each day passes, we get
one day nearer to that amazing event, so we are urged to be ready for Christ every
day.
Questions for study and reflection
Why did Jesus emphasize our need to
let go of our possessions and to build up our treasure in heaven? How do our
hearts reveal what we treasure most?
Jesus calls us to be like servants
awaiting the return of their master. Do we understand what this image means for
us today? Are we willing to actually be servants?
What does Jesus expect of us while
we await His return? Are we ready for Him or do we just take each day for
granted?
What do you personally think will
happen to you when Christ does return? Why do you think that?
The mission of the Church, as the Bride
of Christ, is to prepare the world for His Return. In reality, are we doing
this effectively and faithfully? Why/why not?
Any other thoughts or questions?
Next Sunday’s readings: Isaiah 5:1-7 and Luke 12:49-56
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