The Daily Lectionary
with Commentary
Tuesday, January 2, 2024
Wisdom, Praise, and Humility: Reflecting on God's Creation and Guidance
Psalm 148; Proverbs 1:1-7; James 3:13-18
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
Introduction
with Commentary
Tuesday, January 2, 2024
Wisdom, Praise, and Humility: Reflecting on God's Creation and Guidance
Psalm 148; Proverbs 1:1-7; James 3:13-18
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
Introduction
In this harmonious blend of Scripture, we delve into Psalm 148, Proverbs 1:1-7, and James 3:13-18, exploring themes that intertwine divine wisdom, the awe-inspiring act of praise, and the essence of humility in human conduct. Psalm 148 calls upon all of creation, both celestial and earthly, to praise the Lord for His majesty and splendor. Proverbs 1:1-7 introduces us to the book of Proverbs, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and understanding and how the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. James 3:13-18 contrasts earthly wisdom with heavenly wisdom, highlighting the virtues of gentleness, peace, and righteousness. Together, these passages inspire a contemplative journey into the heart of spiritual wisdom, the duty of praise, and the humble pursuit of a life aligned with divine principles.
Prayer for the New Year
Heavenly Father, as we stand at the threshold of another year, we thank You for all the blessings and lessons of the past year. With hearts full of hope and gratitude, we look forward to the year ahead, seeking Your guidance and wisdom in every step we take.
Lord, bless this new year with Your love and mercy. May it be a time of growth in faith, hope, and love. Help us to walk in Your light, reflecting Your love to those around us.
Give us the strength to face challenges with courage and to embrace each day as an opportunity to grow closer to You. May we be instruments of Your peace and bearers of Your grace to a world in need.
In moments of doubt or difficulty, remind us of Your constant presence and unfailing love. May our hearts always be aligned with Your will, finding joy in Your presence and comfort in Your promises.
As we embark on this new journey, fill us with a spirit of compassion, humility, and patience. Help us to love others as You have loved us, and to serve with a heart like Yours.
We entrust this new year to Your loving hands. Guide us, protect us, and bless us, now and always.
In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
New Year Good News
A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 148
New Beginnings: Embracing the Majesty of God
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 148
New Beginnings: Embracing the Majesty of God
Psalm 148 is a magnificent hymn of universal praise, calling upon all of creation, from the highest heavens to the deepest seas, to glorify the Lord. This psalm beautifully encapsulates the idea that every element of the universe, animate and inanimate, can express praise to God. It underscores the omnipotence and majesty of God, who is exalted above all yet intimately connected to every aspect of His creation. The psalm serves as a reminder of the natural order of praise and the unity of all creation in its awe of the Creator.1 Praise the Lord. *
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights above.
2 Praise him, all his angels; *
Praise him, all his heavenly hosts.
3 Praise him, sun and moon; *
Praise him, all you shining stars.
4 Praise him, you highest heavens *
And you waters above the skies.
5 Let them praise the name of the Lord, *
For at his command they were created,
6 And he established them for ever and ever— *
He issued a decree that will never pass away.
7 Praise the Lord from the earth, *
You great sea creatures and all ocean depths,
8 Lightning and hail, snow and clouds, *
Stormy winds that do his bidding,
9 You mountains and all hills, *
Fruit trees and all cedars,
10 Wild animals and all cattle, *
Small creatures and flying birds,
11 Kings of the earth and all nations, *
You princes and all rulers on earth,
12 Young men and women, *
Old men and children.
13 Let them praise the name of the Lord, *
For his name alone is exalted;
his splendor is above the earth and the heavens.
14 And he has raised up for his people a horn,
the praise of all his faithful servants,
of Israel, the people close to his heart. *
Praise the Lord.
Heavenly Father, Creator of all that exists, both seen and unseen, we join with the heavens, the earth, and all that is within them in exalting Your holy name. May our hearts resonate with the celestial chorus, and our lives reflect the glory of Your creation. Help us to recognize and cherish the beauty and majesty that surrounds us, acknowledging Your sovereignty over all. Grant us the grace to live in harmony with Your creation, singing a hymn of everlasting praise. May our spirits be uplifted, and our faith strengthened, as we behold the wonders of Your works.
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.”
Proverbs 1:1-7 offers a profound and timeless introduction to the Book of Proverbs. This passage sets the stage for understanding the essence and source of true wisdom, offering insights into its purpose and the mindset needed to grasp it. It begins by identifying the author, King Solomon, known for his exceptional wisdom. It proceeds to outline the goals of these proverbs: to impart wisdom and discipline, to understand insightful sayings, to receive instruction in prudent behavior, and to do what is right, just, and fair.1 1 The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:
2 for gaining wisdom and instruction;
for understanding words of insight;
3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior,
doing what is right and just and fair;
4 for giving prudence to those who are simple,
knowledge and discretion to the young—
5 let the wise listen and add to their learning,
and let the discerning get guidance—
6 for understanding proverbs and parables,
the sayings and riddles of the wise.
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Commentary
Verses 1-2 (Authorship and Purpose): The passage credits Solomon as the author, who was renowned for his wisdom. The proverbs aim to teach wisdom and discipline, not just as intellectual exercises, but as practical guides for living a morally upright and fulfilling life.
Verse 3 (Gaining Insight and Prudence): Emphasizing the practical aspect of wisdom, this verse advocates for the acquisition of prudent behavior and understanding. It's not merely about knowledge, but the application of that knowledge in daily life.
Verse 4 (Guidance for the Young): Solomon's proverbs are particularly aimed at the young, offering them guidance and a foundation for building a life characterized by wisdom and integrity.
Verse 5 (Value for the Experienced): Even those who are wise and experienced stand to gain from these teachings. The pursuit of wisdom is a lifelong journey, with continuous growth and learning.
Verse 6 (Understanding Parables and Sayings): This verse highlights the use of parables, riddles, and sayings in imparting wisdom. These literary forms encourage deeper thinking and reflection, crucial for understanding life's complexities.
Verse 7 (The Foundation of Wisdom: Fear of the Lord): The passage culminates with the assertion that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge and wisdom. This reverential awe and respect for God are foundational for true wisdom. It contrasts the wise, who embrace this fear, with fools, who despise wisdom and discipline.
This passage from Proverbs sets a clear framework for the entire book: wisdom is not just intellectual; it is deeply moral and spiritual, rooted in the fear of the Lord and manifested in just, fair, and prudent living. It invites readers of all ages and stages of life to embark on a journey of wisdom, offering guidance, instruction, and insight for a life well-lived.
In James 3:13-18, the passage presents a profound exploration of two contrasting types of wisdom: earthly and heavenly. The scripture vividly distinguishes between the wisdom that is self-centered, envious, and driven by bitter ambition and the wisdom that descends from above, characterized by purity, peace, gentleness, and a willingness to yield to others. This section of James offers a guide for recognizing true wisdom and serves as a mirror, urging self-reflection on the nature and source of our own insights and actions.3 13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
Commentary
Verses 13-14: These verses challenge readers to examine their hearts and motives. True wisdom, according to James, is not just about intellectual knowledge or eloquence but is demonstrated through good deeds done in humility. The warning against bitter envy and selfish ambition serves as a reminder that these traits are incompatible with true wisdom.
Verses 15-16: Here, James categorizes envy and selfish ambition as earthly, unspiritual, demonic. He cautions that these attitudes breed disorder and every evil practice. This stark description underscores the destructive nature of wisdom that is rooted in self-interest and earthly desires.
Verses 17-18: The passage culminates with a beautiful description of heavenly wisdom. This wisdom is first pure, then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. These qualities highlight a wisdom that seeks not only personal purity but also aims to create an environment of peace and righteousness. The metaphor of a harvest of righteousness sown in peace by peacemakers beautifully encapsulates the transformative power of godly wisdom in our relationships and communities.
In summary, James 3:13-18 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking and embodying the wisdom that comes from above. This passage challenges believers to introspectively consider the source and manifestation of their wisdom, encouraging a life that reflects the humility, purity, and peace of heavenly wisdom.
Let's Go
We have been given the Great Light, which has come into the world. This light of peace and hope, joy and love, shines on us, in us, and through us, to all whom we meet. Go now in peace, and let the light of God’s great love go with you. Amen.
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 2, 2024
Wisdom, Praise, and Humility: Reflecting on God's Creation and Guidance
Psalm 148; Proverbs 1:1-7; James 3:13-18
In this harmonious blend of Scripture, we delve into today's readings, exploring themes that intertwine divine wisdom, the awe-inspiring act of praise, and the essence of humility in human conduct. Psalm 148 calls upon all of creation, both celestial and earthly, to praise the Lord for His majesty and splendor. Proverbs 1:1-7 introduces us to the book of Proverbs, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and understanding and how the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. James 3:13-18 contrasts earthly wisdom with heavenly wisdom, highlighting the virtues of gentleness, peace, and righteousness. Together, these passages inspire a contemplative journey into the heart of spiritual wisdom, the duty of praise, and the humble pursuit of a life aligned with divine principles.
