Scripture: 1st Timothy 2:1-2
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity.
Thought for the Day: I’m not much of an historian, but it was on this day in 1857 that the Dred Scott Decision was announced in the Supreme Court. In short, any person of African descent, living in a free or slave state, had no protections under the Constitution. These individuals were not considered citizens of this country according to the decision. There were many political factors at play in this decision, but in the end, many human beings were thrown under the proverbial bus (stage coach at that time). Structures and systems exist for the sake of humanity, yet too often people throughout history have come to believe themselves powerless before such entities. There were many passionate speeches made to justify why people of color deserved no dignity or civil rights, and it was troubling to read how scripture was used to embolden such arguments. I can’t believe God ever intended for the stories of faith to be used to relegate one group of human beings to a lesser status. Though I would suggest the God we find in Jesus relegated a few passages of scripture to a lesser status as a way of restoring dignity to every person.
Prayer: God of Grace-filled Power, I do not wish to be a person intimidated by structures and systems that use obscure arguments to undermine the dignity and value of human beings. Give me a strong voice and a powerful witness to your unmerited love for every person. Amen.
TONIGHT-WEDNESDAY
Join us for dinner at 5:30pm
Lenten Prayer Service at 6:20pm
Book Study at 6:40pm
