Today’s Reflection
I don’t know much about Christian community—what makes one tick, how to break into one, how to commit to one, or why Christ considered belonging to one so essential. And I can’t figure out whom to blame: the churches I’ve walked in and out of for the past decade or me, myself, and I?
—Enuma Okoro, Reluctant Pilgrim: A Moody, Somewhat Self-Indulgent Introvert’s Search for Spiritual Community (Fresh Air Books, 2010)
Today’s Question
When have you struggled to belong to a community? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if one part gets the glory, all the parts celebrate with it. You are the body of Christ and parts of each other.
—1 Corinthians 12:26-27 (CEB)
Prayer for the Week
Lord,
Forgive me when I am reluctant to engage as you call me to do. Surround me with a faith community that encourages and challenges me to participate in God’s unfolding drama.
Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
Lectionary Readings
- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12)
- Psalm 112:1-9 (10)
- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16)
- Matthew 5:13-20
Read the lectionary texts courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library here.
Looking for lectionary-based resources? Learn more about The Upper Room Disciplines.