April 23, 2023

Listen In, Call Out

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Lectionary Week

April 17–23, 2023

Scripture Overview

As we consider further the power of Jesus’ resurrection, how should we respond? This is the question posed to Peter in the reading in Acts. Peter’s first instruction is to repent, to change course in our thinking and our living to align more with God’s way. The psalmist proclaims his gratitude to God because God has heard his cry, but the process began with the psalmist’s turning to the Lord. The letter of First Peter states that because we have turned and have faith and hope in God, we ought to love one another deeply from the heart. Luke tells the story of two men who meet Jesus on the road to Emmaus. They recognize him only as he breaks the bread, symbolizing that Christian fellowship is also part of a changed life.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Acts 2:14a, 36-41. How might you allow Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection to disrupt your life or your faith? How would such a disruption change you?Read Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19. When have you learned of God’s great joy for you? How do the Psalms remind you that you are beloved?Read 1 Peter 1:17-23. How can you take the author’s advice to “act like someone who knows [you are] loved”?Read Luke 24:13-35. Recall times throughout your life when Jesus has been revealed to you. Which of these encounters have been logical? Which have been supernatural?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Today I will call on the name of the Lord. I will use the voice I’ve been given to speak up, sing praises, shout, and make my voice known. With the psalmist I confess that my God has pulled me from dark depths and saved me countless times. I will...

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Holy Trinity, thank you for your presence. God, thank you for your willingness to bend your ear to listen to your children when we cry out to you. Thank you, Jesus, for humbling yourself, walking alongside us, and sharing in our humanity so that we may feel closer to you. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for being the guiding voice within us that gives us boldness, wisdom, and courage. Help us value our voices, knowing you have given us each a story to tell. Remind us to call on your name, knowing you will be there for us every time. Amen.

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