The Daily Office for January 22, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 63
Genesis 13:2-18
Galatians 2:1-10
Mark 7:31-37
Reading (Galatians 2:1-10)
Reflection
The Holy Spirit revealed to Paul that he should return to Jerusalem and he was obedient to divine guidance. Paul did not go merely because of any doubt or difficulty he was experiencing nor at the direction of the church of Antioch. The real purpose of his visit was to place before the apostles the Gospel message he was preaching among the peoples in the Gentile lands.
Despite conflicts from legalists who wanted to enforce the old laws, these five men shook hands as equals to further the work of Christ. The only suggestion was that the poor be aided. Judaea often experienced famine, and the Christians there suffered most because of social ostracism and religious hatred. Of course Paul was eager to keep on helping the poor and needed no prompting, especially since such generosity would foster a sense of unity in both Jewish recipients and Gentile givers. This situation is a great reminder that it is always important to put aside personal agendas and resist petty grievances whenever the work of Christ might be hindered as a result.
Collect of the Day
Almighty God, whose Son revealed in signs and miracles the wonder of your saving presence: renew your people with your heavenly grace, and in all our weakness sustain us by your mighty power; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.