Midweek Bible Study
for the Sundays in January 2010

Second Sunday of Christmas – January 3
Within the gospel reading’s profound words lies the simple message that God is revealed in a human person. Though we may try to understand how the Word existed with God from the beginning of time, the wonder we celebrate at Christmas is that the Word continues to dwell among us. Christ comes among us in the gathered assembly, the scriptures, the waters of new birth, and the bread and the wine. Through these ordinary gifts we receive the fullness of God's grace and truth.
Isaiah 60:1–6
Psalm 147:12–20
Ephesians 3:1–12
Matthew 2:1-12

Baptism of Our Lord – January 10
The Baptism of Our Lord cannot help but recall our own and all baptismal blessings. We recall and celebrate our adoption as daughters and sons, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and the promised company of almighty God when we "pass through the waters ... the rivers ... fire." On this day the heavens open again, for this assembly, and we receive the gift of the beloved Son of God in bread and wine.
Isaiah 43:1-7
Psalm 29
Acts 8:14-17
Luke 3:15-17,21-22

Second Sunday After Epiphany – January 17
The Sundays after Epiphany continue to celebrate the revelation of the glory of God to us as it was made known to the magi and to those on Jordan’s banks at the baptism of Jesus—today using wedding imagery. Our God rejoices over God's people “as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride” By the power of the Spirit there are gifts galore for everyone. In Christ Jesus the best wine is saved for last. Taste and see.
Isaiah 62:1–5
Psalm 36:5–10 
1 Corinthians 12:1–11
John 2:1–11

Third Sunday after Epiphany – January 24
The glory of the Lord is revealed in the reading of scripture. People stand at attention. People weep. People prostrate themselves in prayer. The unity of the church is another reflection of the glory of God. Most gloriously, the promises of God are fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. Gather round. Listen up. Glimpse the glory of God.
Nehemiah 8:1–3, 5–6, 8–10
Psalm 19
1 Corinthians 12:12–31a
Luke 4:14–21

Fourth Sunday after Epiphany – January 31
The glory of God is often revealed when and where it is least expected. God uses our lips to declare that glory, inexperienced and hesitant though they may be. God uses our love to demonstrate that glory and so urges us to exercise it. God uses Jesus of Nazareth, water and the word, bread and wine, to reveal God's glory where and when God chooses. Take heed, lest the glory of God slip through our midst unnoticed.
Jeremiah 1:4–10
Psalm 71:1–6
1 Corinthians 13:1–13
Luke 4:21–30