The Daily Lectionary
with Commentary
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Divine Providence in Trials and Triumphs
Psalm 46; Genesis 45:25—46:7; Acts 5:33-42
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Ordinary 3)
Introduction
with Commentary
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Divine Providence in Trials and Triumphs
Psalm 46; Genesis 45:25—46:7; Acts 5:33-42
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Ordinary 3)
Introduction
This selection of scriptures from Psalm 46, Genesis 45:25—46:7, and Acts 5:33-42 presents a compelling narrative of faith, resilience, and the unfailing providence of God amidst trials and triumphs. Psalm 46 beautifully articulates the steadfastness and refuge found in God, even in the midst of earth-shaking events and tumultuous times. Genesis 45:25—46:7 unfolds the story of Joseph, a tale of familial reconciliation and the fulfillment of God’s promises, as Jacob learns about Joseph's survival and position in Egypt, leading to a momentous journey. In Acts 5:33-42, we witness the apostles’ unwavering commitment to their mission, as they rejoice in suffering for Christ's name, undeterred by persecution. Together, these passages weave a tapestry of divine intervention, showing how God's hand guides His people through both adversity and joy, anchoring them in His unchanging purpose and love.
A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 46
"God, Our Refuge and Strength
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 46
"God, Our Refuge and Strength
Psalm 46 vividly portrays the unwavering confidence and peace believers can find in God amidst chaos and turmoil. It celebrates God's omnipotence and His protective presence, encouraging us to find refuge and strength in Him regardless of the tumultuous circumstances around us. This Psalm serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty over nature and nations, reassuring us that God is always our fortress and sanctuary in times of distress.1 God is our refuge and strength, *
An ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way *
And the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 Though its waters roar and foam *
And the mountains quake with their surging.
4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, *
The holy place where the Most High dwells.
5 God is within her, she will not fall; *
God will help her at break of day.
6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; *
He lifts his voice, the earth melts.
7 The Lord Almighty is with us; *
The God of Jacob is our fortress.
8 Come and see what the Lord has done, *
The desolations he has brought on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease
to the ends of the earth. *
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; *
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”
11 The Lord Almighty is with us; *
The God of Jacob is our fortress.
Heavenly Father, in the spirit of Psalm 46, we come before You, acknowledging Your mighty power and unfailing presence in our lives. You are our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.
Lord, in the midst of life's tumultuous seas and shaking mountains, help us to find solace in Your unshakable kingdom. May we remember that the nations rage and kingdoms fall, but Your voice melts the earth, and You are with us, our fortress and our guide.
As we navigate the challenges of our time, help us to be still and know that You are God. You will be exalted among the nations; You will be exalted in the earth. May our hearts find peace in Your sovereign rule, and may our spirits rejoice in Your eternal promises.
We pray for the courage to trust in You, even when the waters roar and foam, and the mountains quake with their surging. You are the Lord Almighty, and with us is the God of Jacob, our fortress.
Be with us today and every day in Jesus Christ, Who taught us to pray:
“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.”
In Genesis 45:25—46:7, we witness a poignant moment of reunion and transformation. This passage marks a turning point in the story of Joseph and his family. After enduring years of separation and emotional turmoil, Joseph reveals his true identity to his brothers, who had previously sold him into slavery. The narrative shifts from despair to hope, as the family prepares to reunite in Egypt, where Joseph has risen to a position of power.45 25 So they went up out of Egypt and came to their father Jacob in the land of Canaan. 26 They told him, “Joseph is still alive! In fact, he is ruler of all Egypt.” Jacob was stunned; he did not believe them. 27 But when they told him everything Joseph had said to them, and when he saw the carts Joseph had sent to carry him back, the spirit of their father Jacob revived. 28 And Israel said, “I’m convinced! My son Joseph is still alive. I will go and see him before I die.”
46 1 So Israel set out with all that was his, and when he reached Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.
2 And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, “Jacob! Jacob!”
“Here I am,” he replied.
3 “I am God, the God of your father,” he said. “Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. 4 I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph’s own hand will close your eyes.”
5 Then Jacob left Beersheba, and Israel’s sons took their father Jacob and their children and their wives in the carts that Pharaoh had sent to transport him. 6 So Jacob and all his offspring went to Egypt, taking with them their livestock and the possessions they had acquired in Canaan. 7 Jacob brought with him to Egypt his sons and grandsons and his daughters and granddaughters—all his offspring.
Commentary
Verses 45:25-28 (Revelation and Reconciliation): The brothers return to their father Jacob in Canaan, bearing the incredible news that Joseph is alive and ruling in Egypt. The initial shock and disbelief of Jacob are palpable, as he struggles to process the reality that his long-lost son is still alive. This moment symbolizes the restoration of hope and the beginning of healing for Jacob and his family.
Verses 46:1-4 (Divine Guidance): As Jacob sets out for Egypt, he stops at Beersheba to offer sacrifices to God. Here, God appears to Jacob in a vision, reassuring him of His presence and blessing. This divine encounter serves as an affirmation of God's ongoing guidance and faithfulness, encouraging Jacob to proceed with his journey.
Verses 46:5-7 (The Journey to Egypt): The passage details the journey of Jacob and his entire family to Egypt. This journey is not just physical but also symbolic, representing a transition from a past filled with pain and division to a future of unity and providence. The mention of every individual who travels with Jacob underscores the significance of family and community in this journey of faith and restoration.
In summary, Genesis 45:25—46:7 is a profound narrative that explores themes of reconciliation, divine guidance, and the transformative power of forgiveness. It serves as a reminder of the enduring hope and redemption that can emerge even from the deepest of familial wounds.
Acts 5:33-42 is a stirring passage in the New Testament, showcasing the resilience and unshakeable faith of the apostles in the face of persecution. After being arrested for preaching about Jesus Christ, the apostles are brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. Here, they face intense scrutiny and hostility, but remain steadfast in their mission. This passage not only reflects the challenges the early Christians faced but also highlights their unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel, regardless of the cost.5 33 When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. 34 But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. 35 Then he addressed the Sanhedrin: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. 36 Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. 37 After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. 38 Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. 39 But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God.”
40 His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah.
Commentary
Verse 33-39 (Divine Intervention and Bold Witness): The apostles, under threat of death, are unexpectedly defended by Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee. Gamaliel cautions the Sanhedrin against hastily punishing the apostles, suggesting that if their work is of human origin, it will fail, but if it is from God, it cannot be stopped. This argument saves the apostles and underscores a key theme in Acts: the unstoppable spread of the gospel, aided by divine intervention.
Verses 40-42 (Joy in Suffering for Christ): Despite being flogged, the apostles leave rejoicing because they were counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name of Jesus. This response is paradoxical to the worldly view of suffering and highlights a profound spiritual truth in Christian doctrine—suffering for Christ is not a cause for despair but an opportunity for joy and a testament to one's faith.
Persistent Preaching Despite Persecution: The passage concludes with the apostles continuing to preach and teach about Jesus, undeterred by the threat of further persecution. This reflects the early church's commitment and courage in the face of opposition, setting a powerful example for Christians throughout the ages.
In summary, Acts 5:33-42 is a compelling narrative of faith, courage, and joy amidst trials, offering profound insights into the nature of Christian witness and the power of the gospel to endure through adversity.
Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets.]
The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Commentaries are by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Daily Lectionary with Commentary for Tuesday, January 23, 2024
Divine Providence in Trials and Triumphs
Psalm 46; Genesis 45:25—46:7; Acts 5:33-42
Today's scripture readings weave a captivating narrative about faith, perseverance, and God's constant presence in both challenges and victories. In Psalm 46, we find a vivid depiction of God as a steadfast sanctuary, offering solace during turbulent and earth-shattering times. The Genesis account delves into Joseph's story, highlighting themes of family reunification and the realization of God's promises. This unfolds as Jacob discovers Joseph's survival and esteemed position in Egypt, leading to a significant journey. The book of Acts presents the apostles' resolute dedication to their divine mission, demonstrating joy and resilience in the face of suffering and persecution for Christ's sake. Collectively, these texts create a rich mosaic of divine involvement, illustrating how God's guidance remains constant through both hardship and happiness, firmly rooting His people in His eternal purpose and love.
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