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May 17, 2025

Letting Love Guide You

Angela D. Schaffner   |   Read Revelation 21:1-6

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Lectionary Week
May 12–18, 2025
Scripture Overview

This week we focus on love. Through the psalm, we reflect on ways to engage with the external world of creation in order to refresh and renew our love for ourselves and for God. The passages from Acts and Revelation help us to take an internal look at ourselves, to acknowledge what we like and don’t like, and to embrace all of it. The words of John’s Gospel call us to turn outward and extend love to others. Indeed, love is the way others will know we are disciples of Jesus. Let love guide you through your journey this week.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

:
• Read John 13:31-35. What is your definition of love? How do you love others, and how do you love yourself? What is the balance in the energy you give to others versus the energy you give to yourself? How do you feel about it?
• Read Acts 11:1-18. Are there aspects of yourself that you consider “unclean”? Could you give yourself more permission to allow all parts of yourself to be seen and loved?
• Read Psalm 148. What are some ways you can connect more deeply with God through creation?
• Read Revelation 21:1-6. What do you understand about this image of “a new heaven and a new earth?” What seems beyond comprehension or unknowable?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Revelation 21:1-6

1 Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the former heaven and the former earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2 I saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 I heard a loud voice from the throne say, “Look! God’s dwelling is here with humankind. He will dwell with them, and they will be his peoples. God himself will be with them as their God. 4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more. There will be no mourning, crying, or pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” 5 Then the one seated on the throne said, “Look! I’m making all things new.” He also said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” 6 Then he said to me, “All is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will freely give water from the life-giving spring.

Unless otherwise indicated, scripture quotations are from the Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible. Used by permission.

The promise of a new heaven and a new earth means we will experience change from what currently surrounds us. But John’s apocalyptic words are not intended to comfort us about what is to come. His vision is an attempt to point out what is so very wrong with the...

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God, you are making all things new. Nudge me toward change that helps me participate in your work to bring change to our hurting world. Amen.


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