October 14, 2022

“Give Thanks!” For What Exactly?

W. Scott Haldeman | Read Jeremiah 31:27-34

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Lectionary Week

October 10–16, 2022

Scripture Overview

At last Jeremiah is able to bring a message of restoration and hope. God promises a new covenant with the people, and they will internalize the law in their hearts so that they will keep it. The psalmist rejoices in such a reality. He meditates on God’s law all day and has been granted profound understanding. This allows him to walk faithfully in God’s paths. The reading from Second Timothy confirms the ongoing power of God’s law in scripture, which is given by God for our good. Timothy is charged always to be ready to preach it faithfully. Luke hits on a different theme: the importance of persistent prayer. In the parable a heartless judge finally yields to a persistent widow, so we should be similarly tenacious with our prayers to God.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Jeremiah 31:27-34. How have you broken your covenant with God? How has God responded?
Read Psalm 119:97-104. The Jewish laws of the Hebrew scriptures are part of our Christian heritage. How can you delight in the law?
Read 2 Timothy 3:14–4:5. How can you learn or teach from scriptures you do not normally read?
Read Luke 18:1-8. Through the familiar call to pray always, the author reminds us that we are called to pray for what God wants. What is at stake when you pray for justice and mercy?

Respond by posting a prayer.

I popped a grape in my mouth the other day, expecting it to be sweet. Whew! It set my teeth on edge, the oddly satisfying pain shooting down my jawline. My daughter, however, knew nothing of this sensation.

Isn’t this an odd metaphor for Jeremiah to employ to illustrate the...

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Our heart’s desire, we give thanks for your covenant, your claiming of us in love. Soften and inscribe our hearts to you once more. Amen.

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