Readings for the Day:
Isaiah 45:1-7: The prophet announces that Cyrus the Persian emperor is the one the Lord has anointed to end Israel’s exit. The Lord makes this choice so that the whole world will recognize this Lord as the only God. Persia had a god of light and a god of darkness; the Lord claims sovereignty over both light and darkness.
I Thessalonians 1:1-10: Most likely this letter is the first written by Paul. Paul gives pastoral encouragement and reassurances to new Christians living in an antagonistic environment. Their commitment of faith, love, and hope makes them a model for other new Christian communities.
Matthew 22:15-22: After Jesus begins teaching in the temple, religious leaders try to trap him with questions. First they ask if God’s people should pay taxes to an earthly tyrant like Caesar.
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2023 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— What is the new song that we should sing to the Lord? (Psalm 96:1)
2—How might the Holy Spirit be revealing itself to you in unexpected places? (I Thessalonians 1:1-10)
3—What does it mean to give to God the things that are God’s? (Matt. 22:15-22)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: Sovereign God, raise your throne in our hearts. Created by you, let us live in your image; created for you, let us act for your glory redeemed by you, let us give you what is yours. Amen.