No more hate
Day 628, Friday, May 1
Ephesians 4:17 – 5:20
While the readings the last couple of days suggest we are already in an idyllic state of unity, today’s readings sound more like it’s a work in progress. “Get rid of all bitterness, passion, and anger. No more shouting or insults, no more hateful feelings of any sort,” Paul said. He also addressed anger: “If you become angry, do not let your anger lead you into sin, and do not stay angry all day.”
We don’t achieve peace by waiting for everything that vexes us to magically disappear. We achieve peace by choosing it; it can be hard work.
How should we react when things get difficult? “Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, and forgive one another, as God has forgiven you through Christ.”
In chapter 5 Paul reminds us that our life must be controlled by love, and we are to avoid evil. “You may be sure that no one who is immoral, indecent, or greedy (for greed is a form of idolatry) will ever receive a share in the Kingdom of Christ and of God.”

-Rev. Mark Fleming

Friday meditation

Psalms 119:17-24
Be good to me, your servant, so that I may live and obey your teachings. Open my eyes, so that I may see the wonderful truths in your law. I am here on earth for just a little while; do not hide your commands from me. My heart aches with longing; I want to know your judgments at all times. You reprimand the proud; cursed are those who disobey your commands. Free me from their insults and scorn, because I have kept your laws. The rulers meet and plot against me, but I will study your teachings. Your instructions give me pleasure; they are my advisers.

Prayer focus
Open my eyes, so that I may see the wonderful truths in your law. I am here on earth for just a little while; do not hide your commands from me.