SUNDAY, August 16
11 Pentecost
Isaiah 56:8 Thus says the Lord God, who gathers the outcasts of Israel, I will gather others to them besides those already gathered.
Israel is the new name given Jacob after his wrestling match at Peniel, after he “has seen God face to face.” Studying the etymology of the name is its own wrestling match. Who is the subject? Go a little further in the story, and we see that Israel’s children become just like him—wrestling with God for their blessing.
I am Israel. I am impudent with demands. I am strong, and I am vulnerable. I deceive. I play favorites. I want things to go my way. God meets me with faithfulness.
I am humbled. I build temples. I give thanks and praise. I want to be without sin. I wrestle with God. God meets me with faithfulness.
I share my story. God meets me with faithfulness. I see you there. I will not let you go. Please tell me your name.
MOVING FORWARD: What is your gift and calling? How are you proclaiming it in your life?
Ps 133 or Ps 67 | Genesis 45:1-15 or Isaiah 56:1,6-8 | Romans 11:1-2a,29-32 | Matthew 15:(10-20)21-28
Read the original post at Forward Day by Day.