Archive for August 2018

August 21, 2018 DAILY READING Psalm 101This weekend’s reading: Genesis 4:1-16 FIELD NOTES Let’s talk about personal accountability and integrity.  It’s often said that integrity is who we are when nobody’s watching.  What do you think of that?  You’re on a business trip in a city on the other side of the country.  You’re tired…

August 20, 2018 DAILY READING 1 Kings 3:16-28This weekend’s reading: Genesis 4:1-16 FIELD NOTES Everyone knows the story of the two mothers bringing the baby to King Solomon.  It’s so pervasive in popular culture that one might even be forgiven for thinking it’s not actually in scripture.  What’s forgotten about this story often is the desperation…

August 18, 2018 DAILY READING Psalm 1111 Kings 2:1-11John 4:7-26This weekend’s reading: Genesis 3:1-13 FIELD NOTES I have a friend who waited by the bedside of his wise old father, hoping to hear his meaningful last words. When they finally came, they were more on the practical side. “Change the filters on the furnace,” the…

August 17, 2018 DAILY READING Psalm 1111 Kings 1:28-48Romans 16:17-20This weekend’s reading: Genesis 3:1-13 FIELD NOTES David decides to abdicate and place Solomon on the throne, giving thanks to God that he can see this son reign in his place. In the US we have little use for a monarchy, but still, we are fascinated…

August 16, 2018 DAILY READING Psalm 1111 Kings 1:1-30Acts 6:8-15This weekend’s reading: Genesis 3:1-13 FIELD NOTES As old King David’s story continues, we meet an obscure character and possible answer to a Trivia question: Who is Abishag? Her job description is unusual, but David’s struggle to keep warm is understandable to anyone who has cared…

August 15, 2018 DAILY READING Psalm 572 Samuel 19:1-18John 6:35-40This weekend’s reading: Genesis 3:1-13 FIELD NOTES In 2 Samuel 19, we see David’s leadership abilities. First, he listens to advisors and weighs their counsel. In this case Joab speaks quite bluntly to him about his attitude and his need to reconcile the people—even the rebels—in…

August 14, 2018 DAILY READING Psalm 572 Samuel 18:19-332 Peter 3:14-18This weekend’s reading: Genesis 3:1-13 FIELD NOTES Continuing King David’s story, we see him immobilized by the death of Absalom in battle as his rebellion is put down. David’s subjects rally round him, and his troops are waiting to be honored for the victory, but…

August 13, 2018 DAILY READING Psalm 572 Samuel 15:13-31Ephesians 5:1-14This weekend’s reading: Genesis 3:1-13 FIELD NOTES One benefit of using the Daily Lectionary is reading Scripture that we don’t often hear or we’ve forgotten. Today’s readings from 2 Samuel 19 and Ephesians 5 are good examples. We remember David’s story mostly from his triumphs, but…