Entering the Weekend with Christ

Hi everyone,

This Sunday, we receive an invitation to wisdom through Christ as our Bread of Life.  By embracing wisdom and feeding on the Bread of Life, we can become vessels of God's grace through our words. Let us strive to be people whose speech reflects the wisdom and love of Christ, even though we know that we have trouble watching what we say!

Wisdom's Invitation and the Bread of Life

Dear Siblings in Christ,

As we enter this Weekend with Christ, Sunday’s readings present a compelling reminder of wisdom, discernment, and the life-giving power of Christ. As Christ’s disciples, we are encouraged to embrace wisdom…and guard our tongues!

Proverbs 9:1-6 paints a vivid picture of Wisdom's open house. She has prepared a feast, mixed her wine, and set her table. Wisdom calls out to the simple, inviting them to come and eat. This passage reveals that wisdom is accessible to all, but it requires intentionality to seek and embrace.

Ephesians 5:15-20 shifts our focus to the importance of time. We are urged to walk wisely, making the most of every opportunity. In the context of wisdom, this means using our time to cultivate discernment, to learn, and to grow spiritually. It also implies guarding our tongues from idle chatter and harmful speech.

John 6:51-58 introduces Jesus as the Bread of Life. This profound declaration connects directly to wisdom. True wisdom ultimately leads us to Christ, the source of eternal life. Jesus' flesh is the bread that gives life to the world. Just as physical food nourishes our bodies, Christ's spiritual nourishment sustains our souls.

How do these passages intersect in relation to wisdom and the tongue?

• Discernment: Wisdom equips us with discernment to distinguish between truth and error, good and evil. This discernment should guide our speech, preventing us from spreading misinformation or harmful words.

• Redemption: Every word we speak is an opportunity for redemption. We can use our words to build up, encourage, and comfort others, reflecting the life-giving nature of Christ.

• Nourishment: Just as physical food nourishes our bodies, our words should nourish the souls of others. Our speech should be filled with the truth of God's Word, providing spiritual sustenance.

How can we practically apply these insights?

• Seek Wisdom: Dedicate time to study God's Word and seek wisdom through prayer and reflection.

• Guard Your Tongue: Be mindful of your speech. Choose words that build up, not tear down.

• Share Christ: As bearers of God's wisdom, share the good news of Jesus with others.

 

"God has led you to the desert, and spoken to your Heart."

Mount of Olives Lutheran Church

3546 E. Thomas Rd

Phoenix, AZ 85018

602-956-1620 office