What living a life for God could look like - October 2
Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 102; PM Psalm 107:1-32; Hosea 10:1-15; Acts 21:37-22:16; Luke 6:12-26
We read a portion of Jesus’ Sermon on the Plain during the Daily Office today. Before we get to the more commonly recognized “good stuff”, I am drawn toward how Jesus prepared for that day of teaching and healing. It’s almost as if, when we slow down to pay attention, Jesus is showing us some spiritual disciplines we can try, too. And today, I need some of Jesus’ soul-strengthening exercises. Let’s take a look.
First, Jesus went to the mountain. Higher up on rocks, there would be limited foot traffic and fewer interruptions. Ascending to a mountain was also a long-held action of what people did to get closer to God. Abraham, Moses, and Elijah come immediately to mind. God is known to speak to people upon mountains…they are places to meet the Holy.
Jesus’ intention in going away was to pray. The whole night long, he prayed to God. I imagine that as an intimate conversation between Jesus and God: Jesus rehearsing psalms, praising Yahweh; asking for guidance, as Jesus seeks what is to come. I imagine Jesus praying to God on behalf of those in need, who are sick, dying, and despondent; then, Jesus asking God to use him as needed, and to protect him. I imagine God filling Jesus with a sense of grounding and love, so that he is prepared and open for what comes next.
At the break of day, empowered through a night of prayer, Jesus got organized before setting out. He gathered his disciples and named 12 of his followers as apostles…not just to follow him, but to go on missions to spread the Good News far and wide. Jesus knew that he could not do the work of turning hearts and minds alone. Jesus empowered his followers for next steps, and their on-the-job training of healing and teaching began.
Jesus and his followers walked toward a flat place, perhaps less rocky and perilous, where a large crowd had gathered. The people sought inspiration, assurance, and healing. They were hungry for relief and hope. They were hurting from prejudice and hate. Luke writes that they all wanted to touch Jesus, and that divine power flowed from him and brought healing to all in attendance.
God’s grace did not stop there. At the plain, where people from inland and coastal areas of Israel gathered, Jesus did more than attend to the matters of their bodies. He imparted words of comfort and wisdom to build up their minds. He modeled for the disciples, apostles, and the crowd that healing and relief take multiple forms. Jesus added depth to the experience. It wasn’t just a sermon. It wasn’t just a miraculous healing event. Words and actions fused together to honor the dignity and deepen the faith and life of those who were there. In this sermon, Jesus intimated that one’s poverty did not disqualify them from receiving divine or earthly care, and that one’s wealth was to be leveraged through a practice of deep generosity. And why? So that they, too, would show others what living a life for God could look like.
-- Katherine+
Questions for Reflection
What spiritual practice do you need to find quiet for today?
What words or events have brought you healing and relief? What words have you shared with others that affirmed their dignity?
Daily Challenge
Spend 20 minutes, finding space apart from distraction and hubbub today. Go to God for conversation and preparation for what is ahead for you. Then, reach out to a friend and ask them to help you share God’s love – pray, talk, errands, etc.