August 17, 2025

God Makes a Way

Stanley R. Copeland | Read Luke 12:49-56

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Lectionary Week

August 11–17, 2025

Scripture Overview

The scripture readings for the week have a common theme of God’s making a way, and God’s way always leads to restoration, forgiveness, justice, mercy, and love. We can stray from God’s way or reject it altogether, but God never strays from us, will not forsake us, and always beckons us to pursue God’s way leading ultimately to peace and a real experience of God’s presence. The scripture readings conclude with acknowledgment that on God’s way we are surrounded by a “cloud of witnesses”—saints of the faith are also our companions. Standing beside us along the way is Jesus accompanying us.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

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• Read Isaiah 5:1-7. How do we take the way of justice and mercy that God has provided for us and reject the way that leads to bloodshed?
• Read Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19. What do we need rescue from in the present day? Why do we need restoration and revival, and what purpose would it serve?
• Read Hebrews 11:29–12:2. Who do you see as a person or persons of faith who have shined a light on the path of God’s way?
• Read Luke 12:49-56. How do we address divisions when they come upon us in our families, friendship circles, and communities of faith?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Is there any doubt about the fact that Jesus came to shake things up? He called people who heard this word for the first time and those of us who read it today to have our eyes opened to see that the track we are on is far from the...

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All-seeing and loving God, shake me up. “Open my eyes that I may see glimpses of truth thou hast for me. Place in my hands the wonderful key that shall unclasp and set me free. Silently now I wait for thee, ready, my God, thy will to see” (Clara H. Scott, 1895). Amen.

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