Created in God’s Image
Luke 4:16-19 Jesus went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath day he went into the synagogue, as was his custom. He stood up to read, and the scroll of the prophet Isaiah was handed to him. Unrolling it, he found the place where it is written: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” RESOURCE Read the attached article entitled “Gregory of Nyssa and the Culture of Oppression”. LET US PRAY: Look with pity, O heavenly Father, upon the people in this land who live with injustice, terror, disease, and death as their constant companions. Have mercy upon us. Help us to eliminate our cruelty to these our neighbors. Strengthen those who spend their lives establishing equal protection of the law and equal opportunities for all. And grant that every one of us may enjoy a fair portion of the riches of this land; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (BCP 826)
After reading today’s scripture, prayer, and resource, reflect…
Why do you think slavery is incompatible with God's will?
How should Christians respond to oppression?
What questions do you have after reading this?
Gregory of Nyssa was described as having a unique perspective on slavery during his time. Who do you think has a unique perspective on racism during our time? Why?
Be sure to journal your thoughts. We will have a collective discussion at the end of this 2-week series. If you come across an article or a video link or a prayer that is relevant to this discussion about loving our neighbors, feel free to submit it to me. Thank you!