Time in the Scriptures
Pray:
Ask God for guidance in how you worship.
Read:
As we enter the season of Lent, our lectionary scriptures will focus on different themes each week. This week: the centrality of worship. Read Deuteronomy 26:1-11.
Did the Jews worship God so that God would notice them; or did they worship God because God had noticed them?
In what ways have you, as an individual or as part of a group, been led by God and set free from bondage?
The Jews were to bring the “first fruits”—the beginnings of their harvest—to worship. In what ways do you give God your “first fruits”? In what ways are you just giving God the leftovers?
Notice what the Jews did with the sacrifice, once it was given to God: God gives it right back, and they have a party! (verse 11) Do you think of your gifts to the church as enabling a celebration that includes you as one of the participants?
Besides those making the offering, and the priests, who else is invited to this celebration? (verse 11 and 12)
In what ways does your church worship similarly? What might you do differently in response to this particular worship model?
Intercessory Prayer
Spend time in prayer for the following activities and people:
- People in bondage.
- Leaders preparing worship.
- The people of Ukraine, and all those working for peace.
Caring through Action
Give some “first fruit” to God today.