Today’s scripture: Luke 17:1-4 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (Tammy Mills):
As a parent, not a day goes by where I don’t worry about how my behaviors affect my children.
Sure, I talk a good game, but do I really live a good game? I am always wondering — are there things I say or do that injure their spirits or send them negative messages about their abilities and dreams? (Parenting ain’t always easy!) I don’t want to cause them to stumble. I want to be the wind that gently empowers them to live “their best life.” (Yes, I know I got that one from Oprah!)
I see God as a gentle parent in this scripture. God wants all his/her precious children to be empowered to live their best lives! If you get in the way of that, you better watch out! It isn’t going to be pretty!
This makes me wonder about churches that marginalize GLBT folks — or that marginilize any other group of people. I wonder if they have ever thought of themselves having a millstone around their neck? Certainly institutionalized religion has caused many a precious child to stumble!
Thought for the day: I have to ask myself today, am I causing anyone to stumble? Am I a part of any institutions that cause people to stumble?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.