Today’s Reflection
Whatever comes next, we stand on the promises of God. We are called to live today in ways that are consistent with the way things will be when God’s kingdom comes. We dare to believe that we play an active part in its coming. But it isn’t easy. Living into God’s promise in the future always involves dying to something in the past.
—James A. Harnish, Extraordinary Ministry in Ordinary Time: An Invitation to Renewal for Pastors (Upper Room Books, 2019)
Today’s Question
What are the ways you’re being called to play a part in the coming of God’s kingdom?
Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
“Allow the children to come to me,” Jesus said. “Don’t forbid them, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to people like these children.”
—Matthew 19:14 (CEB)
Prayer for the Week
New every morning is your love, great God of light, and all day long you are working for good in the world. Stir up in us desire to serve you, to live peacefully with our neighbors and all your creation, and to devote each day to your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. [prayer from the Upper Room Worshipbook]
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Burnout does not have to be the end of the story. Pastoral Pause, a new book by Greg Pimlott, provides a practical guide to help faith leaders take a break before it’s too late. Learn more here.
Lectionary Readings
- Acts 16:9-15
- Psalm 67
- Revelation 21:10, 22-22:5
- John 14:23-29
Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.