Persevere

Friday, November 24, 2006 -- Week of Proper 28

"Morning Reflections" is a brief thought about the scripture readings from the Daily Office of Morning and Evening Prayer according to the practice found in the Book of Common Prayer of the Episcopal Church.

Morning Prayer begins on p. 80 of the Book of Common Prayer.
Evening Prayer begins on p. 117
An online resource for praying the Daily Office is found at www.missionstclare.com
Another form of the office from Phyllis Tickle's "Divine Hours" is available on our partner web site www.ExploreFaith.org at this location -- http://explorefaith.org/prayer/fixed/index.html

Today's Readings for the Daily Office (p. 993)
Psalm 102 (morning) // 107:1-32 (evening)
Malachi 3:1-12
James 5:7-12
Luke 18:1-8


There is a theme that appears in all of our readings today. (That's pretty unusual.) Trust in God with patient perseverance, for God will respond.

Psalm 107 reminds Israel of the many ways that God has acted to save. When they wandered without home or food, he guided and fed them. When they were oppressed and imprisoned, God freed them. When they were suffering the consequences of their foolishness, God healed them. When they were in peril on the sea, God stilled the storm. Have faith. God will help.

Malachi tells those who are fed up with continuing injustice -- the wicked are the ones who seem to prosper -- God's messenger is coming. He will purify the unfaithful worship. Malachi lists those he will deal with: sorcerers; adulterers; those who lie; and those who oppress hired workers, widows, orphans, or aliens. (Once again care for the alien is a Biblical mandate. Politicians pay attention!) God's messenger will right these wrongs, says Malachi.

One more thing, says the prophet. Another form of trusting God. If you want God's blessing, don't cheat God. "Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, ...and thus put me to the test...; see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you an overflowing blessing."

James offers a beautiful image. Be patient like a farmer. God is coming as surely as the hidden crop is growing to harvest. Remember the prophets, especially Job. Endure suffering. God is "compassionate and merciful." Live simply. "Yes." "No." Trust.

Luke's parable: Keep praying. (We're back to the Psalm) Jesus uses the illustration of a corrupt judge who had respect for nothing. Yet a widow kept bothering him until he gave her justice. How much more will the good God give justice to you. Continue to pray and to seek God. Persevere. God will respond.

Lowell
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The Rev. Lowell Grisham
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
Fayetteville, AR