From childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through the faithfulness which is in Christ Jesus. Every Scripture that is God-inspired is also useful for teaching, for correction, for restoration, and for training in justice, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work. [2Timothy 3.15-17]
The following is a weekly guide to Scripture literacy and central topics of Scripture, which form the basis of my project of Christarchy, intended for reading across a two year cycle. Each week includes three elements: First, there is a scriptural exploration of a central topic of Scripture. Second, there is a weekly reading plan to read the entirety of Scripture every two years. Third, each week includes short scripture passages for weekly prayer and meditation.
WEEKLY TOPICS: The explanatory Scripture guide is categorized in 52 overlapping topics, which supplies one main topic for every week of the year. These topics are derived from common themes in Doctrinal Theology, Moral Theology, and Spiritual Theology, and they form a systemic investigation of my daily Prayermap. Click on the links in the outline below to go to online writings which explain these topics, the Scriptural texts they are rooted in, topical outlines which explore them, as well as charts, art, and resources which illustrate them.
Each topic is explored in around 40 “Vital Verses” selected from the Bible. Not every relevant Biblical scripture for each topic is listed, because collecting every scripture on every topic would be an exhaustive task, well beyond the ability of most people to read. But around 40 “Vital Verses” can be comfortably read in one sitting, while giving the basic sense of the Bible’s trajectory on a given topic. I have also sought (with some exceptions) to make sure each Scripture passage only occurs once in this guide. So a Scriptural reference to one topic may be found under another topic because that Scripture more directly refers to one instead of the other. For instance, 1John 4.7-16 is the famous passage that declares “God is Love”, so it is included under the topic of God’s Nature, even though it also deals directly with Christ and Salvation and Ethics as well. So, cross referencing related topics will be helpful to get a broader understanding of Scripture’s trajectory.
All of these Scripture selections reflect my individual biases, and represent what I find to be the high points of the trajectory that Holy Scripture leads us to: The person of God incarnate, Jesus the Messiah. As it says in Romans 10.4: The goal of the Law is Christ (cf. 2Timothy 3.14-17; John 5.39; 20.30-31; Romans 15.4; Hebrews 4.12). So we must interpret Scripture with a view to its overall Christward goal, purpose, and trajectory. And this is difficult, because Scripture has layers of meaning which we must be careful in interpreting (cf. Mark 4.33-34; Galatians 3-4; Hebrews 11.19; Colossians 2.17; 1Corinthians 10.2-4; Acts 17.11; John 5.39; 2Timothy 2.15). Indeed, Scripture's meaning can be difficult to understand at times (cf. 2Peter 3.15-16; Hebrews 5.11). Yet, the goal of Scripture is to unite us with the God of Love who is embodied in Christ, so that we may live in Christlike Love.
Scripture, in fits and starts, sometimes clearly, sometimes opaquely, points to Jesus Christ as the universal LORD who rules according to the Values he embodies. Yet, some parts of Scripture are "weightier" or more important than others. Some parts more fully disclose the Christward trajectory of Scripture, while others obscure this trajectory. And some parts are rendered obsolete by the coming of God's fullness and mercy in Christ (cf. Matthew 5.17-20; 22.36-40; 23.18-23; Mark 2.21-3.6; 7.1-23; Luke 10.42; Acts 15; Romans 10.4; 13.9; 1Corinthians 13; 15.3; 2Corinthians 3.3-6; Galatians 5.14; Ephesians 1.10; 2.15; Colossians 1.18; 2.8-23; James 2.8-13; Hebrews 7.11-19; 8.7-13; 9.9-10; 10.1-9; 12.27).
And so, Scripture functions as a sign pointing us to fulfillment in Christ, but it is not perfect in itself. Nothing is perfect and complete except the Ultimate Reality of God in Christ, in whom we find our perfection and completion. And while there are enduring and universal values at work within the texts of Scripture, those values often get enacted in very different ways over time. For instance, it is a universal value that God’s People should worship God alone, and live in ways which align with the God they are worshiping. In the Torah, this value meant absolutely avoiding meat sacrificed to idols, and even abstaining from “unclean” animals, such as pork, associated with pagan cults. Yet, in places such as 1Corinthians 8 and Romans 14, the same universal value leads Paul to say that it is permissible to eat any kind of food, even meat sacrificed to idols, because there is only one God, and all food is sanctified by the conscience of the person truly devoted to God. Thus, I have sought to focus on texts which present the universal values of Scripture most clearly, and which most straightforwardly show us the Christward trajectory the Bible points us toward.
With this in mind, a fundamental interpretive choice in understanding the trajectory of the Biblical Story is whether we will allow texts of limitation and exclusion to interpret and restrict texts of universal love and salvation, or whether we will allow inclusive and universal texts to expand and fulfill the horizon of the texts of exclusion and limitation. For instance, when we encounter texts about judgment, retribution, and damnation, will we see these as “the end of the story” with no hope for redemption beyond Divine condemnation? Or, conversely, will we allow universal texts such as John 3.16-17, 12.32, and 1Corinthians 15.22 to interpret these texts of judgment, so we understand that Divine judgment is ultimately redemptive: A phase in the story of salvation that leads to the hopeful reconciliation of all persons in Christ. I have chosen this latter interpretive path, and understand the texts as universally and inclusively as I can, while staying centered on the concrete person of Jesus, in whom the universal love of God is fully incarnated. Thus, if I err, I try to err on the side of love, grace, and healing.
WEEKLY READINGS: This schedule of readings is designed to take the reader through the entire New Testament once per year, and the Old Testament (including the Hebrew Bible along with Deuterocanonical literature) once every two years. This is a “weekly” reading plan instead of a “daily” reading plan, because with my schedule I often have no time to read for a day or two, and then a couple of hours for reading on another day. So, a weekly quota of reading works better for me. Also, I have arranged weekly readings by authorship or historic sequence, instead of using Biblical order (which would put all of the Gospels in the first half of the year, while also disconnecting historical literature while reading through the Old Testament).
For instance, the New Testament readings start with John's Gospel and letters, which were chosen to begin the year because John intentionally echoes the creation narratives of Genesis. Then we read Luke’s Gospel and Acts, which tells the most well researched story of the early Jesus movement. Then we read most of Paul’s letters from earliest to latest, which give us an “inside account” of some of the stories in Acts. Then we read Mark and the letters of Peter, because of Mark’s traditional connection with Peter as the one who wrote his version of the Gospel. This is followed by Matthew’s Gospel and the writings and debates of the early Jewish Christian movement. We end with the writings of Paul commissioning the second generation of Church leaders, and then the final Victory of Christ over all evil in the book of Revelation.
For the Old Testament, odd-numbered years take us through the Torah, followed by Historical Literature, ordered from the oldest events depicted in the text, to the newest events (even though some books were written decades or centuries after the events they depict). In even-numbered years we read through the Psalms, Wisdom literature, and the Hebrew Prophets (ordered roughly from oldest written to newest). The New Testament readings average about 150 verses per week (usually 4-8 chapters) which is around 15-30 minutes read time. Old Testament readings average about 250-300 verses per week (usually 8-15 chapters) which is around 30-60 minutes read time.
In addition, after the Old Testament readings, there are optional readings from the major Scriptures of the world's largest and longest lasting Religions. Although some may find this odd to add to a Biblical reading plan, the study of the great Spiritual Paths of the world has deepened my walk with Jesus immeasurably. These texts help us gain basic fluency in the ways other cultures have pursued spiritual and ethical growth, and will help us understand the ideas and ideals of the Bible better by comparison and contrast with them. And in the words of the second century Church Father, Justin Martyr, we may even find “seeds of the Word” which Christ has planted in other Spiritual Paths to draw us to him.
Odd-numbered years will take us through foundational texts for Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. Even-numbered years will take us through the basic texts of Taoism, Islam, and Sikhism. These World Scripture readings are chosen to be 15-30 minutes in length. And finally, in addition to all of this, this reading plan also reminds us to read through the “Vital Verses” from the Topical Guide above, to help us stay grounded in the foundational topics in doctrine, ethics, and spirituality which a Christ-centered worldview is built upon. In total, for Biblical readings and World Scriptures, the weekly read time will be 1-2 hours, and may be divided up throughout the week, or read all at one time. I often will read Scripture three times per week: One day for the New Testament and Vital Verses. Another day for the Old Testament readings of the week. And a final day for World Scripture readings.
WEEKLY MEDITATION PASSAGES: Finally, each week includes Scripture passages to meditate on and memorize which can be repeated aloud in about 30 seconds. Meditation here refers to focusing on Christ's presence in us by repeating a Divine Name, Prayer, or Scripture, over and over. These Scripture passages have been adapted to give us a focal point for meditation each week of the year. Using breathing prayer, we can use these as "arrow prayers" like the Jesus Prayer used in Orthodox Spirituality. Start by finding a meditative bodily position, whether seated or walking. Then repeat the Scriptural passage over and over as you breathe slowly. You may also use Prayer Beads or a Rosary to help you focus and keep track of your repetitions. The goal is to "treasure" these Truths, and store them deep within our self, so we become what we pray.
REGARDING SCRIPTURAL TRANSLATIONS: I prefer Bible translations that include the entire Canon of Scripture, including the books which Jesus and Paul quoted, but Protestants have hidden away. Thus, I usually use the New Revised Standard Version [NRSV], the Common English Bible [CEB], or the New American Bible Revised Edition [NABRE]. For Hindu and Buddhist Scriptures, I am quite fond of Eknath Easwaran’s editions of the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Dhammapada. In addition, if you want a readable modern compendium of the main Vedic texts, read Wendy Doniger's "Rig Veda" from Penguin Classics. Although translations abound for Chinese Scriptures, for the Confucian Analects (Lun Yu), I have found the translations by Edward Slingerland and Nicholas Tamblyn to be helpful. For the Tao Te Ching (Daodejing), I find the Penguin Classics translation helpful, and the paraphrase of Stephen Mitchell inspiring. Given how short the Tao readings are, it may be helpful to read both versions side-by-side. For the Quran, I often switch between the Oxford World Classics edition and Itani’s Quran in Modern English. And finally, for the Sikh tradition a very helpful, modern, and concise abridgment of the massive Guru Granth Sahib can be found in “Hymns of the Sikh Gurus” by Nikky-Guninder Kaur Singh.
WEEK 1. METHOD OF CHRISTARCHY.
The topic of the Method of Christarchy details the system used to organize our life in Christ, and includes: [1] The Patterns, Goals, and Techniques of interpreting the Sources of Christarchy. [2] The underlying philosophy behind constructing holistic theology to build an integrated ideology and comprehensive worldview. [3] A systemic inquiry into the inter-relations between the various topics of Systematic Theology, such as Doctrine, Ethics, Spirituality, Pastoral Theology, and Apologetics. [4] Using the structure of the Creed, Commandments, and Lord's Prayer to order Christarchy. Topic 01 is also explored in: Topics 04, 05, 19, 20, 37, 38, 40, 49, and 52; Prayermap sections 2.22, 3A-C.00, 4A-C.00, 5A-J.00; Vital Verses Deuteronomy 6.1-13; Romans 10.4; John 5.39; John 14.3-7; Matthew 22.36-40; Luke 11.1-4; The Nicene Creed; The Episcopal Baptismal Covenant
EACH YEAR READ: John 1-4; Vital Verses for Topic 1.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 1-20; Tao Te Ching, Chapters: 1-9. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Hear, O Israel: The LORD is our God, the LORD alone. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. Keep these words that I am commanding you today in your heart. Recite them to your children and talk about them when you are at home and when you are away, when you lie down, and when you rise up. [Deuteronomy 6.4-7]
ODD YEARS READ: Genesis 1-11; Upanishad: Isha. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Jesus said: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets. [Matthew 22.36-40]
TOPICS ON DOCTRINE
Seventeen Topics that deal with the nature of Being: Our beliefs about Ultimate Reality, and how it interacts with the everyday reality we experience.
WEEK 2. ULTIMATE REALITY.
The topic of Ultimate Reality addresses Metaphysical Theology, and includes: [1] Metaphysics: The Nature of Ultimate Reality. [2] Theology: Our reasoning and speech about God's Essence and Attributes. [3] The question of Ontology: What is Being, and whether, and in what ways, God "exists" or "insists". [4] God-Talk: The limits of human language to effectively represent God. [5] Gender and God. Topic 02 is also explored in: Topics 03, 06, 07, 08, 09, 11, 13, 18, 19, 22, 39, and 51; Prayermap sections 2.01-02; 3A.01-04, 07; 3B.13; 5B.01, 07; Vital verses Exodus 3.14-15; Exodus 34.5-7; 1Kings 8.27; Isaiah 45.4-7,15; Isaiah 57.15; Mark 10.26-27; Acts 17.28-29; Romans 11.32-36; Galatians 4.6; 1Timothy 1.17; 1Timothy 6.15-16; James 1.17; Hebrews 4.13; Revelation 4.8; 1John 1.5-7; 1John 4.7-16
EACH YEAR READ: John 5-7; Vital Verses for Topic 2.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 21-36; Tao Te Ching, Chapters: 10-18. MEDITATION PASSAGE: God is Light and in him there is no darkness at all… Beloved, let us love one another, because Love is from God. Everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is Love. God’s Love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. [1John 1.5, 4.7-9]
ODD YEARS READ: Genesis 12-23; Upanishad: Katha. MEDITATION PASSAGE: God said to Moses, “I AM who I AM! You must say this to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you!”... The LORD descended in the cloud and stood with him… And the LORD proclaimed: “The LORD, is a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast Love and faithfulness. God keeps steadfast Love for the thousandth generation, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin.” [Exodus 3.14; 34.5-7]
WEEK 3. REVELATION AND INTERACTION.
The topic of Revelation and Interaction includes: [1] The methods by which God makes Godself known in Natural Revelation and Special Revelation. [2] The evidence for God's as the Ultimate Reality that upholds all realities. [3] Whether divine interaction, in the form of revelation or miracles, is possible. [4] The nature and limits of revelation in Scriptural traditions. Topic 03 is also explored in: Topics 04, 05, 11, 13, 14, 19, 20, 24, 33, 36, 40, 49, and 51; Prayermap sections 2.03, 09; 3A.05-07; 5D.09; Vital verses Psalm 19.1-4; Job 12.7-10; Isaiah 55.6-9; Matthew 11.25-27; John 14.8-11; John 20.27-29; Romans 1.18-23; 2.13-16; Ephesians 1.17-18; Hebrews 2.3-4; 11.1-3,6
EACH YEAR READ: John 8-10; Vital Verses for Topic 3.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 37-51; Tao Te Ching, Chapters: 19-27. MEDITATION PASSAGE: The heavens declare the glory of God! The skies proclaim the work of his hands! Day after day they pour forth speech. Night after night they display knowledge. They do not talk, they use no words, and no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. [Psalm 19.1-4]
ODD YEARS READ: Genesis 24-31; Upanishad: Brihadaranyaka. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen... By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from things that are not visible... And without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach God must trust that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. [Hebrews 11.1,3,6]
WEEK 4. SCRIPTURE AND STORY.
The topic of Scripture and Story deals with Biblical Theology and includes: [1] The nature and purpose of Scripture. [2] The nature of canon and the relation of Scriptures from other religions and traditions. [3] The interpretation of specific books from the Old Testament and New Testament in their historical-cultural and literary context. [4] Understanding the significant details, patterns, themes, and values found in the characters, events, and stories found in Scripture. Topic 04 is also explored in: Topics 03, 05, 14, 19, 20, 37, and 49; Prayermap sections 3A.21; 3B.15; 3C.11-13; 5H.05; Vital verses Joshua 1.7-8; Psalm 12.6; Psalm 19.7; Psalm 119.105,130,160; Proverbs 30.5; Matthew 24.34-35; Luke 16.16-17; Luke 24.44-45; Acts 17.11; Galatians 3.16; Romans 15.4; 2Peter 1.20-21; 2Timothy 3.14-4.4; 2Corinthians 3.14-18; Hebrews 10.1; Colossians 1.25-27; Ephesians 3.9-11; Revelation 20.12
EACH YEAR READ: John 11-13; Vital Verses for Topic 4.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 52-69; Tao Te Ching, Chapters: 28-36. MEDITATION PASSAGE: From childhood you have known the sacred writings that are able to instruct you for salvation through the faithfulness which is in Christ Jesus. Every Scripture that is God-inspired is also useful for teaching, for correction, for restoration, and for training in justice, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work. [2Timothy 3.15-17]
ODD YEARS READ: Genesis 32-41; Upanishad: Chandogya. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Be strong and very courageous, being careful to act in accordance with all the Law that my servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, so that you may be successful wherever you go. Never stop reciting the book of the Law. You shall meditate on it day and night. [Joshua 1.7-8]
WEEK 5. HISTORY AND TRADITION.
The topic of History and Tradition deals with Historical Theology and includes: [1] The theology of how God's Spirit shapes and guides the historical process. [2] How History and Tradition shape us today. [2] Whose voices get to speak as "history", and how to listen for diminished voices in our cultural development. [3] Studies of Canonical texts, creeds, and decisions of Ecumenical Councils, and how they impact our theological development. [4] Exploring the significant saints, exemplars, thinkers, themes, and values found in major spiritual Traditions, such as Anglicanism, Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Protestantism, Evangelicalism, and Pentecostalism. Topic 05 is also explored in: Topics 03, 04, 14, 15, 27, 41, 42, 49, and 52; Prayermap sections 3A.06; 5H.09-12; Vital verses Genesis 15.1,5-6; Deuteronomy 4.9; Deuteronomy 9.5; 2Samuel 7.12-16; Proverbs 22.28; Sirach 44.1-11; Hebrews 11.13,16; 1Corinthians 10.1-4,11; 1Corinthians 11.1-2; 1Corinthians 15.3-7; 2Thessalonians 2.15; 2Timothy 2.2; Colossians 2.8; Mark 7.13; Matthew 23.2-3
EACH YEAR READ: John 14-18; Vital Verses for Topic 5.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 70-82; Tao Te Ching, Chapters: 37-45. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Take care and watch yourselves closely, so as neither to forget the things that your eyes have seen nor to let them slip from your mind all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children’s children... For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God. [Deuteronomy 4.9, 24]
ODD YEARS READ: Genesis 42-50; Upanishad: Shvetashvatara. MEDITATION PASSAGE: See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. [Colossians 2.8-10]
WEEK 6. THE TRIUNE GOD.
The topic of the Triune God deals with Trinitarian Theology, and includes understanding God as a Threefold Ultimate Reality, both in Godself (as the “Immanent Trinity''), and as experienced in Creation and in Salvation (as the “Economic Trinity''), which shows us that God is a dynamic dance of relational Love for all Creation. Topic 06 is also explored in: Topics 02, 03, 11, 13, 19, and 39; Prayermap sections 3A.07; 3C.04-07; 5B.07-10; Vital verses Genesis 18.1-3; Isaiah 6.1-5,8; Isaiah 48.12-13,16; Matthew 3.16-17; Matthew 28.18-20; John 8.58; John 14.20; John 16.15; John 17.5,21-22; 1Corinthians 2.9-11; 2Corinthians 13.13; Galatians 4.6; Colossians 1.13-20; Colossians 2.9-10; 1Peter 1.1-2
EACH YEAR READ: John 19-21; 1John 1-3; Vital Verses for Topic 6.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 83-100; Tao Te Ching, Chapters: 46-54. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Christ is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created... All things have been created through him and for him. He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together. [Colossians 1.16-17]
ODD YEARS READ: Exodus 1-12; Upanishad: Mundaka. MEDITATION PASSAGE: I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were six winged angels... And they were calling to one another: “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty: The whole earth is full of his glory!”... Then I heard the voice of the Lord say, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!” [Isaiah 6.1-3, 8]
WEEK 7. CREATION AND SCIENCE.
The topic of Creation and Science deals with Cosmology and includes: [1] Ultimate origins in God's creative act which brings into being, and sustains, our Material and Spiritual Worlds. [2] The nature of our experienced reality and how it is related to Ultimate Reality. [3] Different planes and dimensions of existence in the Omniverse. [4] Evolution: The method by which God creates. [5] Science and Religion as complementary modes of interacting with Reality, seeking answers to different kinds of questions with different methods. Topic 07 is also explored in: Topics 03, 08, 09, 18, 23, 32, 41, 42, and 44; Prayermap sections 2.07; 3A.08-12; 3B.04; 5C.22; 5H.13; Vital verses Genesis 1.1-4,12,24; Genesis 2.19; Psalm 33.6; Psalm 90.2; Psalm 104.24-26; Isaiah 45.18; Nehemiah 9.6; Wisdom 1.12-16; Wisdom 7.15,17,21-28; John 1.1-5,10-11; Romans 4.17; 1Corinthians 8.5-6; Revelation 4.11
EACH YEAR READ: 1John 4-5; 2John; 3John; Luke 1; Vital Verses for Topic 7.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 101-109; Tao Te Ching, Chapters: 55-63. MEDITATION PASSAGE: In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw that the light was good. [Genesis 1.1-4]
ODD YEARS READ: Exodus 13-23; Upanishad: Mandukya. MEDITATION PASSAGE: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and this life was the light of all people. [John 1.1-5]
WEEK 8. PERSONS IN GOD'S IMAGE.
The topic of Persons in God's Image includes: [1] Anthropology: The study of humans as persons made in God's image. [2] Psychology: The makeup of the personal "self". [3] The possibility of other kinds of persons, besides humans, who bear the image of God, such as Animals, Angels, Aliens, or Artificial Intelligences (for complete Angelology, see the topic Spiritual Conflict). Topic 08 is also explored in: Topics 02, 06, 07, 11, 18, 22, 27, 29, 31, 35, 39, and 44; Prayermap sections 3A.13-14; 5A.10, 17-22; 5E.02; Vital verses Genesis 1.26-28,31; Genesis 2.7,15; Psalm 8.3-6; Psalm 51.5; Psalm 103.13-15,17; Psalm 139.13-14; Job 34.14-15; Malachi 2.10; Sirach 17.1-4, 6-8, 11-12; Matthew 12.11-12; John 8.44; John 10.33-38; Hebrews 4.12; 1Peter 4.6
EACH YEAR READ: Luke 2-5; Vital Verses for Topic 8.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 110-119; Tao Te Ching, Chapters: 64-72. MEDITATION PASSAGE: The Lord created human beings out of earth, and makes them return to it again. He gave them a fixed number of days, but granted them authority over everything on the earth. He endowed them with strength like his own, and made them in his own image... He filled them with knowledge and understanding, and showed them good and evil. [Sirach 17.1-4,7]
ODD YEARS READ: Exodus 24-32; Upanishad: Kena. MEDITATION PASSAGE: God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and control it"... God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good. [Genesis 1.27-28,31]
WEEK 9. PROVIDENCE AND FREEDOM.
The topic of Providence and Freedom includes: [1] The doctrine of continuing creation, by which God is operative in the world. [2] The economy of Divine actions and activities as relates to a created world, by which God's attributes are enacted in the world. [3] The Divine Purpose for the world and God's Order of Decrees in working out that Purpose. [4] The idea of Divine permission in allowing human free agency. [5] The question of if, and how, God answers prayer. Topic 09 is also explored in: Topics 05, 07, 08, 10, 14, 17, 18, 23, 41, 44, and 50; Prayermap sections 2.05; 3A.11-12, 14-16, 19-20, 22; Vital verses Genesis 50.19-20; Psalm 36.6-9; Psalm 104.13-15,27-28; Proverbs 16.33; Jeremiah 18.6-10; Wisdom 11.21-12.2; Romans 8.28,31,35,37-39; Galatians 5.1; 5.13; Ephesians 1.3-5,9-12; Revelation 3.20; Revelation 22.17
EACH YEAR READ: Luke 6-8; Vital Verses for Topic 9.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 120-145; Tao Te Ching, Chapters: 73-81. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice is like the great deep: You save humans and animals alike, O LORD! How precious is your steadfast Love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house, and you give them drink from the river of your delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. [Psalm 36.6-9]
ODD YEARS READ: Exodus 33-40; Leviticus 1-3; Upanishad: Prashna. MEDITATION PASSAGE: We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose... For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. [Romans 8.28,38-39]
WEEK 10. EVIL AND SIN.
The topic of Evil and Sin includes: [1] The nature of evil as an abuse of goodness. [2] Theodicy: The problem of evil, and why an all powerful, all knowing, all good God would allow abuse, suffering, and death. [3] Hamartiology: How sin and evil have infected humanity from “The Fall” until now. [4] How sins (as activities) are symptoms of Sin (as disease). Topic 10 is also explored in: Topics 09, 17, 18, 21, 22, 25, 34, 45, 46, and 52; Prayermap sections 3A.16-18, 20, 22-24; 3C.23; 5F.03; 5I.20-24; Vital verses Genesis 3.1-7; Ezekiel 18.20-21,23; Ecclesiastes 7.20; Proverbs 26.27; Wisdom 2.23-24; Sirach 33.14; Sirach 39.26-27; Romans 2.1; 2.11-12; Romans 3.9-12; 3.23-24; Romans 5.12-16; Romans 6.23; Romans 8.18-19, 22-23; 1Peter 2.19,21-24
EACH YEAR READ: Luke 9-11; Vital Verses for Topic 10.
EVEN YEARS READ: Psalm 146-150; Psalm 151; Song of Solomon 1-8; Proverbs 1-3; Quran, Surah: 1-2. MEDITATION PASSAGE: All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus... Just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all... For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. [Romans 3.23-24, 5.18, 6.23]
ODD YEARS READ: Leviticus 4-13; Upanishad: Taittiriya. MEDITATION PASSAGE: If the wicked turn away from all their sins that they have committed, and keep all my statutes, and do what is lawful and right, they shall surely live! They shall not die... Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, says the Lord GOD, and not rather that they should turn from their ways and live? [Ezekiel 18.21,23]
WEEK 11. JESUS CHRIST.
The topic of Jesus Christ deals with Christology and includes: [1] The study of the Person, History, Humanity, and Divinity of Christ. [2] Models for understanding the Incarnation of the Theandric person of Christ in Hypostatic union. [3] Mariology: The study of the nature and role of the Virgin Mary in the Incarnation, and economy of salvation. [4] Both the similarities and particularities of the Incarnation in conversation with other religious exemplars. Topic 11 is also explored in: Topics 03, 04, 06, 07, 08, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 35, 39, 48, and 52; Prayermap sections 3A.24; 3B.01-07, 09, 14; 5B.16-17; Vital verses Psalm 2.7-8; Psalm 45.6-7; Isaiah 7.14; Isaiah 9.6-7; Isaiah 11.1,3-5; Isaiah 42.1; Matthew 1.21,23; Luke 1.35; Luke 2.40,52; John 5.25-27; John 11.25; Hebrews 1.1-4; Hebrews 2.14-15,17-18; Hebrews 4.15-16; Philippians 2.6-11; 2Timothy 1.8-10
EACH YEAR READ: Luke 12-15; Vital Verses for Topic 11.
EVEN YEARS READ: Proverbs 4-13; Quran, Surah: 3. MEDITATION PASSAGE: For a child has been born for us, a son given to us. Authority rests upon his shoulders, and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually, and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom. He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time onward and forevermore. [Isaiah 9.6-7]
ODD YEARS READ: Leviticus 14-22; Upanishad: Aitareya. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Though Christ was in the form of God, he did not regard equality with God as something to be hoarded. Instead he emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death: Even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the Name that is above every name. [Philippians 2.6-9]
WEEK 12. CROSS AND ATONEMENT.
The topic of Cross and Atonement includes: [1] The Nature, Purpose, and Effects of the Work of Christ, including his kenosis, incarnation, ministry, death, resurrection, ascension, and return. [2] Models of understanding the Atonement, such as substitution, victory, and exemplar. [3] Emphasis on the historicity and effects of the resurrection of Christ. Topic 12 is also explored in: Topics 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 28, 39, 45, 46, 48, and 52; Prayermap sections 3B.06, 08, 10-14, 17-18, 23; Vital verses Psalm 68.19-20; Isaiah 53.3-6,10-12; Zechariah 12.10; Zechariah 13.1; John 12.31-32; Galatians 3.13-14, 21-25; Romans 4.25-5.2; Romans 5.6-10,18; Romans 10.9; Ephesians 4.8-10; Hebrews 2.9; 1Timothy 2.5-6; Acts 4.12; 1John 2.2; 1John 5.11-12
EACH YEAR READ: Luke 16-19; Vital Verses for Topic 12.
EVEN YEARS READ: Proverbs 14-22; Quran, Surah: 4. MEDITATION PASSAGE: For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly... God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us... Now that we have been justified by his blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more surely, having been reconciled, will we be saved by his life. [Romans 5.6-10]
ODD YEARS READ: Leviticus 23-27; Numbers 1-2; Minor Upanishads: Tejobindu, Atma, Amritabindu, Paramahamsa. MEDITATION PASSAGE: He has borne our infirmities and carried our diseases. Yet we accounted him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, and crushed for our iniquities. Upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his wounds we are healed. [Isaiah 53.4-6]
WEEK 13. HOLY SPIRIT.
The topic of the Holy Spirit deals with Pneumatology and includes: [1] The Nature, Person and Divinity of the Holy Spirit. [2] The Spirit as our Divine Mother, the personification of the Divine Feminine. [3] Her work as Lifegiver, Counselor, and Empoweror. [4] Spiritual Gifts: The Spirit's continual giving of miraculous gifts and how we receive them. Topic 13 is also explored in: Topics 02, 03, 06, 07, 09, 11, 16, 17, 20, 21, 24, 24, 39, 49, and 51; Prayermap sections 3A.24; 3C.01-03, 08-10; Vital verses Job 33.4; Psalm 104.29-30; Psalm 139.7-8; Proverbs 8.12, 17, 22-23, 30-31, 35; Isaiah 11.2; Wisdom 7.7, 11-12; John 3.5-8; John 4.24; John 6.63; John 7.38-39; John 14.16-17; John 15.26; John 20.21-23; Acts 1.8; Acts 2.1-4; Acts 4.31; Romans 8.9-11; 1Corinthians 6.17,19-20
EACH YEAR READ: Luke 20-22; Vital Verses for Topic 13.
EVEN YEARS READ: Proverbs 23-31; Quran, Surah: 5-6. MEDITATION PASSAGE: The Spirit of Wisdom says: The LORD had me at the beginning of his work, before his deeds of long ago. From eternity I poured forth, from before the beginning of the Earth... Then I was beside him, like a master worker. I was daily his delight, rejoicing before him always, rejoicing in his inhabited world, and delighting in the human race… Whoever finds me finds life, and obtains favor from the LORD. [Proverbs 8.22-23, 30-31, 35]
ODD YEARS READ: Numbers 3-9; Bhagavad Gita: 1. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Jesus spoke about his Spirit: Let the one who believes in me drink! As the Scripture has said, "Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water." ...I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of Truth... You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you. [John 7.38-39; 14.16-17]
WEEK 14. RELIGIONS AND COVENANTS.
The topic of Religions and Covenants deals with Christ's relationship with Judaism, Christianity, and other Religious Paths, and includes: [1] The Nature and Dimensions of Religion, and more broadly, spirituality. [2] Different ways of relating Christ to Religions, including Exclusivism, Pluralism, Inclusivism, and Expansivism. [3] A Theology of God's Covenant Relationships with different cultural and religious groups to lead them to Christ’s Life, especially God's work with the Jewish people. Topic 14 is also explored in: Topics 04, 05, 06, 08, 09, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 20, 41, 42, 50, and 51; Prayermap sections 3A.21; 3B.07, 19-22; Vital verses Genesis 14.18-20; Genesis 17.3-7,10,20; Isaiah 45.1,3; Amos 9.7,11-12; Matthew 2.1-2,11; Mark 3.35; John 1.9,12-14,16-18; John 10.14-16; Acts 14.15-17; Acts 17.23-28; Romans 10.11-13
EACH YEAR READ: Luke 23-24; Acts 1; Vital Verses for Topic 14.
EVEN YEARS READ: Ecclesiastes 1-12; Job 1-2; Quran, Surah: 7. MEDITATION PASSAGE: No longer shall your name be Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you the ancestor of a multitude of nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come from you. I will establish my covenant between me and you, and your offspring after you throughout their generations, for an everlasting covenant. [Genesis 17.5-7]
ODD YEARS READ: Numbers 10-18; Bhagavad Gita: 2. MEDITATION PASSAGE: From one ancestor God made all nations to inhabit the whole earth... so that they would seek out God and perhaps search for him and find him. And indeed God is not far from each one of us. For “In God we live and move and have our being”. As even some of your own poets have said: “For we too are God's offspring”. [Acts 17.26-28]
WEEK 15. COMMUNITY AND MISSION.
The topic of Community and Mission deals with Ecclesiology and includes: [1] The Saints: God’s chosen people throughout time, exemplified in certain communities such as Israel and the Church. [2] The Nature of the Church as God's People, Christ's Body, and the Spirit's Vessel. [3] Systemic Roles within the Church and Leadership models. [4] The Mission of the Church (Missiology) to continue the work of Christ as a community that is One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic. Topic 15 is also explored in: Topics 04, 05, 06, 11, 13, 14, 16, 27, 28, 29, 37, 48, 49, and 52; Prayermap sections 3C.13-16; 5C.19-20; Vital verses Exodus 19.5-6; Leviticus 26.12; Psalm 107.31-32; Daniel 7.27; Isaiah 62.4-5; Hosea 1.10; Micah 4.1-3; Mark 16.15-16; Luke 24.47-48; John 17.18; Acts 2.42-47; 1Corinthians 12.12-14,26-27; Ephesians 2.17-22; Ephesians 4.2-6; 1Peter 2.5,9
EACH YEAR READ: Acts 2-5; Vital Verses for Topic 15.
EVEN YEARS READ: Job 3-13; Quran, Surah: 8-9. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Now therefore, if you obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession out of all the peoples. Indeed, the whole earth is mine, but you shall be for me a Kingdom of priests and a holy People. [Exodus 19.5-6]
ODD YEARS READ: Numbers 19-28; Bhagavad Gita: 3. MEDITATION PASSAGE: For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ... If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one member is honored, all rejoice together with it. Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. [1Corinthians 12.12,26-27]
WEEK 16. SACRAMENTS AND GRACE.
The topic of Sacraments and Grace deals with the means of grace available within Community, and includes: [1] The Nature of Sacraments as Material Signs that convey Spiritual grace. [2] The Great Sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist. [3] The lesser sacramental acts, including those listed in cross references below. Topic 16 is also explored in: Topics of Incarnation and Community, 11 and 15; Baptism, 39; Communion, 40 and 52; Proclamation, 03, 15, and 33; Fellowship, 15 and 47; Confirmation and Ordination, 27, 28, 37, 43 and 48; Marriage, 27 and 31; Confession, 45, 46, and 49; Intercession, 44 and 48; Service, 28, 29, and 32; Prayermap sections 3C.17-20; 5J.19; Vital verses Numbers 14.21; 2Chronicles 5.13-14; Isaiah 55.10-11; Genesis 9.4-5; Genesis 17.11-12; Leviticus 9.7; Numbers 8.7; Mark 1.9-11; Matthew 28.19; Luke 24.30-32,35; John 6.35,53; Acts 2.38-39; Acts 16.31-33; Galatians 3.27; 1Corinthians 10.16-17; 1Corinthians 11.23-28; Titus 3.4-5; Colossians 2.11-12; Hebrews 6.1-2
EACH YEAR READ: Acts 6-9; Vital Verses for Topic 16.
EVEN YEARS READ: Job 14-24; Quran, Surah: 10-11. MEDITATION PASSAGE: The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a sharing in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a sharing in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. [1Corinthians 10.16-17]
ODD YEARS READ: Numbers 29-36; Bhagavad Gita: 4. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Just as the rain and the snow come down from the sky and don’t return there without watering the earth, making it conceive and yield plants and providing seed to the sower and food to the eater, so is my Word that comes from my mouth. It does not return to me empty. Instead, it does what I want, and accomplishes what I intend. [Isaiah 55.10-11]
WEEK 17. SALVATION AND FAITH.
The topic of Salvation and Faith deals with Soteriology and includes: [1] The Nature of Salvation as partaking in God's Life through Christ by the Spirit.[2] God's initiation of salvation by grace, and the nature of election and calling. [3] The Economy of Salvation and relationship of grace, repentance, faith, and works. [4] The nature of faith(fulness) and how salvation is received and personally appropriated within the Community of Faith. [5] The effects of salvation in this life and after, including justification, adoption, rebirth, sanctification, and glorification. Topic 17 is also explored in: Topics 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 18, 36, 39, 45, and 46; Prayermap sections 3A.01, 25-26; 3B.01, 23-26; 3C.01, 05, 25-26; 4A.25, 4B.25, 4C.25, 5A.01, 04; 5F.02, 06-07; 5G.15; 5H.16; and 5A-I.26; Vital verses Psalm 103.2-4,8-13,17; Matthew 18.3-5; Mark 1.15; John 10.28-29; Galatians 2.16; Romans 8.29-30; Romans 11.29,32; Ephesians 1.13-14; Ephesians 2.1-10; 2Corinthians 5.17; Philippians 1.6; Philippians 2.12-13; 2Peter 1.3-4; 2Peter 3.9
EACH YEAR READ: Acts 10-13; Vital Verses for Topic 17.
EVEN YEARS READ: Job 25-35; Quran, Surah: 12-14. MEDITATION PASSAGE: God does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is his steadfast Love toward those who revere him. As far as the east is from the west, so far he removes our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion for his children, so the LORD has compassion for those who revere him. [Psalm 103.10-13]
ODD YEARS READ: Deuteronomy 1-9; Bhagavad Gita: 5. MEDITATION PASSAGE: For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing. This is the gift of God, not the result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life. [Ephesians 2.8-10]
WEEK 18. DEATH AND HOPE.
The topic of Death and Hope deals with both personal and cosmic eschatology, and includes: [1] The journey of individual persons through the Intermediate State after death to the final resurrection. [2] The nature, purpose, and relation of traditional terms for the "intermediate state" of personal afterlife, including Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory. [3] The nature, purpose, and relation of traditional terms for the "final state" of the Cosmos as a whole, including the "End Times", Tribulation, Millennium, Resurrection, and New Creation. [4] The certain Hope that all of Creation will be healed and reconciled to God through Christ. Topic 18 is also explored in: Topics 02, 06, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 23, 38, 45, and 50; Prayermap sections 3A.22-24; 3B.15-16; 3C.21-24; 5B.17-18; 5E.18; Vital verses 2Samuel 14.14; Psalm 87.4-7; Isaiah 65.17-19,25; Daniel 7.9-10; Daniel 12.2-3; Luke 20.37-38; Mark 9.47-49; 1Corinthians 3.11-15; 1Corinthians 15.21-26,28; 2Corinthians 5.8,10; Hebrews 9.27-28; Revelation 1.17-18; Revelation 20.13-15; Revelation 21.1-4
EACH YEAR READ: Acts 14-17; Vital Verses for Topic 18.
EVEN YEARS READ: Job 36-42; Wisdom 1-3; Quran, Surah: 15-16. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead has also come through a human being. For as all die in Adam, so all will be made alive in Christ. But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. Then comes the end... The last enemy to be destroyed is death... So that God may be all in all. [1Corinthians 15.21-24,26,28]
ODD YEARS READ: Deuteronomy 10-22; Bhagavad Gita: 6. MEDITATION PASSAGE: I am about to create new heavens and a new earth: The former things shall not be remembered or come to mind. But be glad and rejoice forever in what I am creating. For I am about to create Jerusalem as a joy, and its people as a delight. I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and delight in my people; no more shall the sound of weeping be heard in it, nor the cry of distress. [Isaiah 65.17-19]
TOPICS ON ETHICS
Seventeen Topics that deal with the nature of Value: Our ideals derived from Love’s Supreme Value which guide our interactions with ourselves, others, and the world.
WEEK 19. LOVE AND VALUE.
The topic of Love and Value deals with our Supreme Value, and includes: [1] The Trinity and Incarnation as the basis for moral value and ethical behavior, including such actions as inclusion, hospitality, and social justice. [2] Triune Inclusive Self-giving Love as the Ground for Ethics. [3] Elevation of the Love of God, as revealed in Jesus, above all other values as our highest ethical principle and greatest concern. [4] The need to abide and remain in Love to have a meaningful and fulfilling life. Topic 19 is also explored in: Topics 02, 06, 11, 20, 22, 29, 35, 38, and 46; Prayermap sections 2.04; 4A.01-12, 19, 22; 4B.07; 5B.25; Vital verses Psalm 33.5; Psalm 96.4-5; Psalm 111.4-5,7; Psalm 119.68; Psalm 136.1-3,23-25; Isaiah 49.15-16; Isaiah 54.8-10; Proverbs 10.12; Mark 12.28-34; John 15.9-10; 1Corinthians 13.1-8,13; 1Corinthians 16.14; 1Peter 1.22; 1Peter 4.7-8
EACH YEAR READ: Acts 18-21; Vital Verses for Topic 19.
EVEN YEARS READ: Wisdom 4-15; Quran, Surah: 17-18. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Give thanks to the LORD, for God is good. God's steadfast Love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. God's steadfast Love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords. God's steadfast Love endures forever... It is God who remembered us in our low estate. God's steadfast Love endures forever. [Psalm 136.1-3,23]
ODD YEARS READ: Deuteronomy 23-32; Bhagavad Gita: 7. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Love is patient. Love is kind. Love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way. Love is not irritable or resentful. Love does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. Love bears all things, trusts all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails... And now Faith, Hope, and Love abide, these three: And the greatest of these is Love. [1Corinthians 13.4-8,13]
WEEK 20. PATTERNS OF GOODNESS.
The topic of Patterns of Goodness deals with ethical norms for decision making includes: [1] The nature of Supreme Good in God, and how Biblical Laws lead to that Good. [2] The purpose of Biblical Laws, to convict of sin, shape society, and lead us to abundant life, by training us in Love. [3] Interpreting Biblical Laws for use in contemporary situations, as we find Universal Values embedded within contingent laws, which function as culturally shaped tactics to enact these Values. [4] Patterns of Ethical decision making, including Teleological, Deontological, and Virtue Models, with Christ as our Model and Pattern for excellence. [5] Discernment of right and wrong in the conflict of greater goods and lesser evils. Topic 20 is also explored in: Topics 03, 05, 06, 10, 11, 14, 15, 19, 21, 22, 25, 34, 35, and 49; Prayermap sections 4A.11, 13-19, 22; 5H.22; Vital verses Leviticus 19.2; Deuteronomy 6.24; Deuteronomy 10.12-13,16; Deuteronomy 11.8-9; Deuteronomy 30.11,14; Psalm 16.2,11; Matthew 5.17-20; Matthew 19.16-17; Matthew 23.18-19,23; Mark 2.27-3.4; Luke 10.25-28; John 10.10; John 13.34-35; John 15.12-13; 1John 3.14; Romans 7.7-10
EACH YEAR READ: Acts 22-26; Vital Verses for Topic 20.
EVEN YEARS READ: Wisdom 16-19; Sirach 1-6; Quran, Surah: 19-20. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Jesus said: I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have Love for one another... Love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. [John 13.34-35, 15.12-13]
ODD YEARS READ: Deuteronomy 33-34; Joshua 1-10; Bhagavad Gita: 8. MEDITATION PASSAGE: So now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you? Only to revere the LORD your God, and walk in all his ways: To love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments of the LORD your God and his decrees that I am commanding you today, for your own well-being. [Deuteronomy 10.12-13]
WEEK 21. RESPONSIBILITY AND DECISION.
The topic of Responsibility and Decision deals with our ethical agency, and includes: [1] An exploration of all agents involved in ethical decision making, including the self, the other, and the Ultimate Value of God. [2] A sacramental ethic which advocates our “response-ability” to care for the embodied presence of God in our neighbor as the most pressing moral duty, beyond theoretical concerns. [3] Our limited capacity to respond to our ethical duty, and the need for Divine grace to empower us to do our duty, as God’s Love for us enables us to love ourselves and love others as God has loved us. Topic 21 is also explored in: Topics 03, 10, 15, 16, 20, 23, 25, 26, 28, 29, 33, 34, 35, 37, 38, 44, and 45; Prayermap sections 4A.20-21, 23-26; 4B.14-15, 25-26; 4C.25-26; Vital verses Deuteronomy 30.15-19; Joshua 24.14-15; Ecclesiastes 12.13-14; Isaiah 43.4,7; Sirach 10:28; Sirach 15.14-17; Matthew 12.33-37; Romans 2.6-8; 1Corinthians 15.10; 2Corinthians 12.9; Philemon 1.14; James 1.22; James 2.12-17,22,24,26; James 4.17; 1John 4.18-19
EACH YEAR READ: Acts 27-28; 1Thessalonians 1-5; Vital Verses for Topic 21.
EVEN YEARS READ: Sirach 7-17; Quran, Surah: 21-22. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Love the LORD your God, walk in his ways, and observe his commandments, decrees, and ordinances, then you shall live and become numerous, and the LORD your God will bless you... I call heaven and earth to witness against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live. [Deuteronomy 30.16,19]
ODD YEARS READ: Joshua 11-20; Bhagavad Gita: 9. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Make the tree good, and its fruit will be good. Or make the tree bad, and its fruit will be bad. For the tree is known by its fruit... Indeed, out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good person brings good things out of a good treasure, and the evil person brings evil things out of an evil treasure. [Matthew 12.33-36]
WEEK 22. ENDS AND MEANS.
The topic of Ends and Means deals with the subversion of Goodness by mistaking our means for our ends, and includes: [1] The danger of idolatry which confuses material goods with our Highest Good, inverting creation and Creator, and subverting Supreme Value. [2] The need for a worthy focus of ultimate reverence and fear for a healthy society. [3] The primary temptations of pleasure, power, possessions, praise, and pride, and how they subvert our values when used wrongly. [4] The necessary connection between idolatry and injustice, leading us to ab-use God's children as means to our ends. [5] Honoring the Supreme Value of God means treating God's children always as ends, never as means. Topic 22 is also explored in: Topics 02, 06, 08, 19, 20, 29, 35, 39, and 43; Prayermap sections 4B.01-07; 4C.03; Vital verses Deuteronomy 5.6-10; Psalm 16.8; Psalm 106.35-36; Psalms 111.10; Psalm 115.3-5,8; Isaiah 44.9-10; Matthew 6.19-24; Mark 10.17-23,25-27; Luke 6.31,35; Romans 1.22-23,25; Romans 15.1-2; Philippians 3.18-19; Ephesians 5.5
EACH YEAR READ: 2Thessalonians 1-3; 1Corinthians 1-5; Vital Verses for Topic 22.
EVEN YEARS READ: Sirach 18-27; Quran, Surah: 23-25. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also... No one can serve two masters. For a servant will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth. [Matthew 6.20-24]
ODD YEARS READ: Joshua 21-24; Judges 1-6; Bhagavad Gita: 10. MEDITATION PASSAGE: I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol, whether in the form of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or worship them. [Deuteronomy 5.6-9]
WEEK 23. ECOLOGY AND TECHNOLOGY.
The topic of Ecology and Technology deals with our role as stewards of creation and includes: [1] Technology: How we make use of material goods to glorify God and benefit God's children. [2] How to avoid making idols of technology to achieve self-interest rather than God's Ends. [3] The Ecology of caretaking creation, and avoiding abuse of our environment. [4] The goals and limits of scientific inquiry and technology for the full flourishing of God's world and children. Topic 23 is also explored in: Topics 07, 08, 09, 21, 22, 24, 32, 41, 42, 44, and 52; Prayermap sections 4B.09-11; 5C.01-02, 04, 11, 22; Vital verses Deuteronomy 20.19; Deuteronomy 25.4; Proverbs 12.10; Job 35.11; Isaiah 11.6-9; Isaiah 24.2-6; Isaiah 25.6-8; Wisdom 9.1-3; Sirach 42.24-25; Matthew 6.25-30,33; 1Corinthians 4.1-2; Revelation 11.18; Revelation 21.22-27; Revelation 22.1-5
EACH YEAR READ: 1Corinthians 6-11; Vital Verses for Topic 23.
EVEN YEARS READ: Sirach 28-37; Quran, Surah: 26. MEDITATION PASSAGE: The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the cattle together, and a little child shall lead them... They will not hurt or destroy on all my Holy Mountain; for the Earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea. [Isaiah 11.6,9]
ODD YEARS READ: Judges 7-17; Bhagavad Gita: 11. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear... Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them... But seek first for the Kingdom of God and his justice, and all these things will be given to you as well. [Matthew 6.25-26,33]
WEEK 24. BEAUTY AND CREATIVITY.
The topic of Beauty and Creativity deals with aesthetics and how we use our abilities to show forth God's Glory, and includes: [1] The nature of art and beauty as means to focus Divine Light. [2] How our creativity can be used to make icons that draw us into God, or idols that pull us away from God. [3] What makes for "good" art which points us toward Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. [4] Examples of art, music, literature, and poetry which attempt to focus and display Divine beauty. Topic 24 is also explored in: Topics 02, 03, 06, 07, 13, 22, 35, 36, 40, and 51; Prayermap sections 2.07; 4B.12; 5B.05; 5C.22; Vital verses Exodus 35.30-36.1; 1Chronicles 16.26-29; Psalm 26.8; Isaiah 28.5; Isaiah 52.13-53.2; Wisdom 13.3-5; Sirach 42.15-17,22-23; Sirach 43.27-28; 1Corinthians 15.40-45,49; 2Corinthians 3.17-18; Ephesians 2.10; 1Peter 3.3-4; 1Timothy 4.4-5
EACH YEAR READ: 1Corinthians 12-16; Vital Verses for Topic 24.
EVEN YEARS READ: Sirach 38-47; Quran, Surah: 27-28. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And all of us, with unveiled faces, who see the glory of the Lord as though reflected in a mirror, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. All this comes from the Lord, the Spirit. [2Corinthians 3.17-18]
ODD YEARS READ: Judges 18-21; Ruth 1-4; 1Samuel 1-3; Bhagavad Gita: 12. MEDITATION PASSAGE: All the gods of the nations are worthless, but the LORD made the heavens. Majestic splendor emanates from him, he is the source of strength and joy. Ascribe to the LORD, O families of the nations, ascribe to the LORD splendor and strength! Ascribe to the LORD the splendor he deserves! Bring an offering and enter his presence! Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness! [1Chronicles 16.26-29]
WEEK 25. CONSCIENCE AND CONSUMPTION.
The topic of Conscience and Consumption deals with making conscious choices, and includes: [1] Conscience as the awareness of our ethical duties as God's image bearers and name-carriers. [2] How our consumption and production honors or dishonors God in light of the idea that "the glory of God is humanity fully alive". [3] How attachment to material things distorts our relationship with God, others, and self. [4] Avoidance of products and intoxicants which harm our awareness and ability to make clear decisions. [5] The process of addiction: How systems, activities, and substances can lead us to bondage, alienation, and false consciousness. Topic 25 is also explored in: Topics 03, 10, 17, 20, 21, 34, 35, 44, and 45; Prayermap sections 4B.13-16; Vital verses Deuteronomy 5.11; Genesis 6.5-7,11-12; Jeremiah 2.13; Jeremiah 17.9-10; Sirach 31.26-29; Luke 21.34-36; Romans 2.23-24; Romans 7.14-16,24-25; Romans 13.11,13-14; 1Corinthians 6.12,19-20; 1Timothy 1.5; Titus 1.15-16; James 1.13-15; James 4.1-4; 1Peter 4.16
EACH YEAR READ: 2Corinthians 1-8; Vital Verses for Topic 25.
EVEN YEARS READ: Sirach 48-51; 4Maccabees 1-6; Quran, Surah: 29-32. MEDITATION PASSAGE: My people have committed two evils: They have forsaken me, the fountain of living water, and dug out cisterns for themselves, cracked cisterns that can hold no water… For the heart is devious above all else. It is perverse: Who can understand it? I the LORD test the mind and search the heart, to give to all according to their ways, according to the fruit of their doings. [Jeremiah 2.13, 17.9-10]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Samuel 4-15; Bhagavad Gita: 13. MEDITATION PASSAGE: "All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are beneficial. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything... Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you were bought with a price. Therefore glorify God in your body. [1Corinthians 6.12,19-20]
WEEK 26. TIME MANAGEMENT.
The topic of Time Management deals with our stewardship of the moments we have been given, and includes: [1] Time as a finite gift of God's grace to be embraced and cherished. [2] The need for rest and Sabbath to enjoy our life as human beings, not merely humans doing. [3] Managing time daily and yearly to maximize awareness of God. [4] The responsibility to use our work time to build God's Kingdom of Love. [5] The sins of laziness and boredom which waste time. Topic 26 is also explored in: Topics 09, 15, 21, 22, 25, 32, 37, 43, and 44; Prayermap sections 4B.17-20; 4C.16; 5D.10, 13-16, 5E.24; Vital verses Deuteronomy 5.12-15; Psalm 90.12; Psalm 127.2; Proverbs 20.4; Ecclesiastes 3.1-4,7-8,11; Matthew 11.28-30; Mark 6.31; 1Corinthians 7.29-31; 2Corinthians 6.1-2; Galatians 6.9-10; 2Thessalonians 3.7-8,10; Ephesians 5.8-11,14-17; 2Timothy 4.1-2; James 4.13-15
EACH YEAR READ: 2Corinthians 9-13; Philemon; Vital Verses for Topic 26.
EVEN YEARS READ: 4Maccabees 7-16; Quran, Surah: 33-35. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Be imitators of God, as beloved children, and walk in love, as Christ loved us... Once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light... Be careful how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. [Ephesians 5.1-2,8,15-17]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Samuel 16-25; Bhagavad Gita: 14. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Observe the Sabbath day and keep it holy, as the LORD your God commanded you. Six days you shall labor and do all your work. But the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. You shall not do any work: You, or your son or your daughter, or your male or female servant, or your ox or your donkey, or any of your livestock, or the resident alien in your towns. [Deuteronomy 5.12-14]
WEEK 27. FAMILY AND SOCIETY.
The topic of Family and Society includes: [1] The purpose of Family as the core unit of society, replicated in the larger institutions of culture. [2] Family systems: The diversity of roles within family, and the manifold ways families are made up. [3] The duties and roles of parenthood and childhood, old and young within society. [4] Unique yet overlapping gender roles, including male and female, as well as various non-dual gender identities. Topic 27 is also explored in: Topics 06, 08, 15, 28, 31, 41, 42, and 43; Prayermap sections 4B.21; 4C.02; 5C.07-08; 5G.09, 13; Vital verses Deuteronomy 5.16; Deuteronomy 23.1-2; Leviticus 19.32; Psalm 27.10; Proverbs 13.1; Proverbs 22.6; Isaiah 56.3-8; Matthew 15.4-6; Matthew 19.10-12; Galatians 3.26-29; Romans 16.1-3,7; Ephesians 6.1-9; 1Peter 5.1-3,5
EACH YEAR READ: Philippians 1-4; Romans 1; Vital Verses for Topic 27.
EVEN YEARS READ: 4Maccabees 17-18; Isaiah 1-10; Quran, Surah: 36-37. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God commanded you, so that your days may be long and that it may go well with you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you. [Deuteronomy 5.16]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Samuel 26-31; 2Samuel 1-6; Bhagavad Gita: 15. MEDITATION PASSAGE: In Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith. All of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is no longer insider or outsider, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female. For all of you are one in Christ Jesus. And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to the promise. [Galatians 3.26-29]
WEEK 28. SERVANT LEADERSHIP.
The topic of Servant Leadership includes: [1] How family systems prepare us for our role in social systems. [2] The purpose of leadership in establishing justice and opportunity in social systems.[3] The process of learning leadership and skills necessary for effective leadership. [3] When to disobey authority, and how to protest and resist when social systems become unjust (see Topic 50 Spiritual Conflict). Topic 28 is also explored in: Topics 03, 05, 22, 27, 29, 33, 41, 42, 43, and 48; Prayermap sections 4A.13; 4B.21-24; 5C.01; Vital verses Proverbs 11.14; Proverbs 14.28; Proverbs 29.18; Joshua 1.5-6,9; Ezekiel 2.5-6; Ezekiel 3.7-8; Ezekiel 33.7,9; Luke 9.23-25; Mark 10.42-45; Philippians 2.1-5; Romans 12.3-8; 1Corinthians 12.28; Hebrews 13.7,17; 1Timothy 3.1-7
EACH YEAR READ: Romans 2-7; Vital Verses for Topic 28.
EVEN YEARS READ: Isaiah 11-26; Quran, Surah: 38-39. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Among the Nations those whom they recognize as their rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. But it is not so among you! Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be servant of all. For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many. [Mark 10.42-45]
ODD YEARS READ: 2Samuel 7-17; Bhagavad Gita: 16. MEDITATION PASSAGE: No one shall be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not fail you or forsake you... I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. [Joshua 1.5,9]
WEEK 29. SOCIAL JUSTICE.
The topic of Social Justice deals with the ethics of social systems and includes: [1] The function of social systems and our roles within them. [2] The relationship between individuality and community within society. [3] Models of Justice and the relationship of Personal Love to Social Justice. [4] The nature of Social Justice within social systems, and our collective responsibility for protecting human rights. [5] The need for dignity, respect, hospitality, inclusion, and tolerance in a Just society. Topic 29 is also explored in: Topics 06, 08, 15, 19, 20, 22, 23, 27, 28, 30, 32, 41, 42, 50, and 52; Prayermap sections 4B.24; 4C.01-04, 08; 5C.15-16; 5G.07-09; Vital verses Leviticus 19.14-18,34; Deuteronomy 10.17-18; Isaiah 61.1-2; Amos 5.15,24; Proverbs 24.29; Matthew 5.43-48; Matthew 7.1-5,12; Matthew 18.10,12,14; Romans 13.8-10; Romans 14.13; Romans 15.7; 1Corinthians 10.23-24; 2Corinthians 1.3-4; James 2.8-9; 1John 4.20-21
EACH YEAR READ: Romans 8-11; Vital Verses for Topic 29.
EVEN YEARS READ: Isaiah 27-39; Quran, Surah: 40-42. MEDITATION PASSAGE: You shall not render an unjust judgment. You shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great: With justice you shall judge your neighbor... You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against any of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD… The outsider who resides with you shall be to you as the citizen among you. You shall love the outsider as yourself. [Leviticus 19.15, 18, 34]
ODD YEARS READ: 2Samuel 18-24; 1Kings 1; Bhagavad Gita: 17. MEDITATION PASSAGE: You have heard that it was said: “You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy”. But I say to you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good... Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. [Matthew 5.43-45,48]
WEEK 30. PROTECTION AND PEACEMAKING.
The topic of Protection and Peacemaking deals with our duty to protect life and includes: [1] The consistent life ethic of the infinite value of all persons, from womb to tomb. [2] Retributive Ethics: The need to defend life by legitimate means in Police action and Defensive War as a "lesser evil". [3] Applying consistent life to Judicial Ethics and Restorative Justice. [5] Methods of Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation instead of violence. [6] Consistent life ethics relating to biomedical questions, including birth control, abortion, genetic adaptation, and euthanasia. Topic 30 is also explored in: Topics 08, 09, 22, 27, 29, 32, and 41; Prayermap sections 4C.05-07; 5C.10-11, 14-15; 5F.16; 5G.02; Vital verses Deuteronomy 5.17; Leviticus 24.17-21; Psalm 11.5; Psalm 34.14; Psalm 82.3-4; Psalm 120.6-7; Isaiah 1.15-17; Isaiah 2.3-4; Jeremiah 22.3; Luke 6.27-28; Matthew 5.21-22,38-42; Matthew 26.52; Acts 20.28-30; Romans 13.1-5; Romans 14.19; 1John 2.9-11
EACH YEAR READ: Romans 12-16; Vital Verses for Topic 30.
EVEN YEARS READ: Isaiah 40-51; Quran, Surah: 43-46. MEDITATION PASSAGE: You have heard it said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." But I say to you, Do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also. And if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well... Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you. [Matthew 5.38-42]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Kings 2-9; Bhagavad Gita: 18. MEDITATION PASSAGE: When you stretch out your hands, I will hide my eyes from you. Even though you make many prayers, I will not listen. For your hands are full of blood! Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean. Remove the evil of your doings from before my eyes. Cease to do evil, learn to do good. Seek justice, rescue the oppressed, defend the orphan, plead for the widow. [Isaiah 1.15-17]
WEEK 31. SEXUALITY AND MARRIAGE.
The topic of Sexuality and Marriage includes: [1] The purpose of sexuality in biological, moral, and spiritual senses. [2] The nature of Marriage as a lifetime monogamous covenant commitment between two companions. [3] The inclusion among God’s faithful people of a diverse range of sexualities and genders, including heterosexual persons and LGBTQI persons. [4] Sexual sins against faithfulness which objectify God’s children, including lust, pornography, prostitution, promiscuity, and adultery. Topic 31 is also explored in: Topics 06, 08, 15, 27, and 47; Prayermap sections 4C.09-12; Vital verses Deuteronomy 5.18; Genesis 2.18, 2.22-25; Genesis 3.16-17; Leviticus 18.21-23; Leviticus 19.29; Song 8.6-7; Tobit 8.6-7; Matthew 5.27-29; Matthew 19.3-9; Romans 1.24-27; 1Corinthians 7.2-5; Colossians 3.12-14; Ephesians 5.21-22,25; 1Thessalonians 4.3-4,6
EACH YEAR READ: Ephesians 1-6; Vital Verses for Topic 31.
EVEN YEARS READ: Isaiah 52-66; Quran, Surah: 47-51. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm! For Love is strong as death, passion fierce as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a raging flame. Many waters cannot quench Love, neither can floods drown it. If one offered for Love all the wealth of his house, it would be utterly scorned. [Song of Songs 8.6-7]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Kings 10-18; Dhammapada: Buddha’s Life and Teaching. MEDITATION PASSAGE: As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with Love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. [Colossians 3.12-14]
WEEK 32. WEALTH AND RESOURCES.
The topic of Wealth and Resources deals with economic ethics and includes: [1] Distributive Justice: How the wealth of a society is measured by the health of its people, as it distributes the “daily bread” which all need to thrive. [2] Comparing economic systems, and how they provide daily bread and distributive justice. [3] Differentiating how the "Free Market" can fulfill human wants, apart from "Public Goods'' which meet human needs. [4] The use of wealth, loans, interest, and debt remission. Topic 32 is also explored in: Topics 07, 08, 09, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 41, and 44; Prayermap sections 4C.13-16; 5C.11, 23-24; 5E.09-10; Vital verses Deuteronomy 5.19; Exodus 22.25; Leviticus 19.10,13; Leviticus 25.10,23; Deuteronomy 8.17-18; Deuteronomy 15.1-2,4,7,10; Proverbs 14.31; Proverbs 19.17; Ecclesiastes 3.12-13; Matthew 25.34-40; Luke 6.38; Luke 12.48; Luke 16.10,13; 2Corinthians 9.6-7; 1John 3.16-18; 1Timothy 6.6-10,17-19
EACH YEAR READ: Colossians 1-4; Mark 1; Vital Verses for Topic 32.
EVEN YEARS READ: Jeremiah 1-10; Quran, Surah: 52-55. MEDITATION PASSAGE: The King will say... I was hungry and you gave me food. I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me. I was naked and you gave me clothing. I was sick and you took care of me. I was in prison and you visited me... Just as you did it to one of the least of my brothers and sisters, you did it to me. [Matthew 25.35-37,40]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Kings 19-22; 2Kings 1-5; Dhammapada: Stages of Enlightenment. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Do not say to yourself: “My power and the might of my own hand have gotten me this wealth”. But remember the LORD your God, for it is God who gives you power to get wealth, so that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your ancestors, as he is doing today. [Deuteronomy 8.17-18]
WEEK 33. INTEGRITY AND SPEECH.
The topic of Integrity and Speech deals with the ethics and practice of communication, and includes: [1] Personal integrity and truthfulness, including transparency, deception, cursing, filth, slander, and gossip. [2] How we deal with anger and speech. [3] The goal of speech: How to speak the truth in love to build up others. [4] The skills of effective communication with others, privately and publicly. [5] How we can use humor in humility to enhance humility, joy, and compassion. Topic 33 is also explored in: Topics 03, 10, 21, 22, 29, 34, 35, 45, and 46; Prayermap sections 4C.17-20; 5B.24; 5H.21; Vital verses Deuteronomy 5.20; Psalm 15.1-3; Psalm 18.25-26; Proverbs 10.19; Proverbs 11.12-13; Proverbs 15.1; Proverbs 18.13; Proverbs 22.10; Proverbs 26.20; Proverbs 31.8-9; Isaiah 5.18,20; Isaiah 8.12-13; Mark 7.6; Luke 6.43-45; Ephesians 4.15-16,29; Philippians 2.14-15; Colossians 3.8-10; Colossians 4.5-6; James 1.19-20; James 5.12; 1Peter 3.9-10,15-16
EACH YEAR READ: Mark 2-5; Vital Verses for Topic 33.
EVEN YEARS READ: Jeremiah 11-22; Quran, Surah: 56-58. MEDITATION PASSAGE: A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger... If one gives an answer before hearing, it is folly and shame... Remove the mocker and conflict disappears; judgment and shame also stop... Speak out for those who cannot speak, for the rights of all the destitute. Speak out, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy. [Proverbs 15.1, 18.13, 22.10, 31.8-9]
ODD YEARS READ: 2Kings 6-16; Dhammapada: Ch. 1-2. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Speaking the Truth in Love, we must grow up in every way into Christ who is the head, From him the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love... Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up others. [Ephesians 4.15-16,29]
WEEK 34. SELF-CENTERED VICES.
The topic of Self-Centered Vices addresses the sinful deformation of human character includes: [1] The process of character formation: Thoughts form actions which form habits which form character which form destiny. [2] The nature of selfish craving as the source of sinful character. [3] The principal vices of sinful character and the thought patterns which enable them. Topic 34 is also explored in: Topics 10, 20, 22, 25, 33, 35, 37, 39, 45, and 50; Prayermap sections 4C.21-23; 5F.10-20; Vital verses Deuteronomy 5.21; Proverbs 11.3; Proverbs 13.4; Proverbs 14.30; Proverbs 16.18; Proverbs 17.22; Proverbs 25.28; Proverbs 29.1; Matthew 23.25-28; Mark 7.15,18-23; Romans 1.28-32; James 3.14-17; Galatians 5.19-21; Galatians 6.3-5,7-8; 1Peter 4.3-5
EACH YEAR READ: Mark 6-9; Vital Verses for Topic 34.
EVEN YEARS READ: Jeremiah 23-31; Quran, Surah: 59-66. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Each of you should test your own actions. Then you can take pride in yourself, without comparing yourself to somebody else, for all must carry their own loads... Do not be deceived: God is not mocked! For you reap whatever you sow. If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh. But if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. [Galatians 6.4-5,7-8]
ODD YEARS READ: 2Kings 17-25; 1Chronicles 1; Dhammapada: Ch. 3-4. MEDITATION PASSAGE: You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife. Neither shall you desire your neighbor’s house, or field, or male or female slave, or ox, or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor. [Deuteronomy 5.19-21]
WEEK 35. CHRIST-CENTERED VIRTUES.
The topic of Christ-Centered Virtues addresses the Christlike formation of human character includes: [1] The Fruit of the Spirit: The work of Divine Love and grace in transforming our character. [2] The nature of unselfish Love as the source of Christlike character. [3] The principal virtues of Christlike character and the thought patterns which enable them. Topic 35 is also explored in: Topics 08, 11, 19, 20, 22, 34, and 38; Prayermap sections 4C.23-24; 5A.24; 5B.24-25; 5C.02-03; 5D.11-12; 5E.05, 12-14; 5F.03-04; 5G.02-03; 5H.23; 5I.02-04; 5J.13-14; Vital verses Psalm 1.1-4; Psalm 36.9; Proverbs 13.14; Ezekiel 36.24-27; Matthew 5.3-12; Matthew 7.17-18; Galatians 5.16-18,22-25; Philippians 3.21; Colossians 3.12-17; 2Peter 1.5-8
EACH YEAR READ: Mark 10-13; Vital Verses for Topic 35.
EVEN YEARS READ: Jeremiah 32-42; Quran, Surah: 67-70. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers. But their delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law they meditate day and night. They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season. Their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper. [Psalm 1.1-3]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Chronicles 2-8; Dhammapada: Ch. 5-6. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Live by the Spirit, and do not gratify the desires of the flesh... For the fruit of the Spirit is Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against such things. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. So, if we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. [Galatians 5.16,22-25]
TOPICS ON SPIRITUALITY
Seventeen Topics that deal with the nature of Becoming: Our practices which cooperate with, and draw us into, Ultimate Reality and Supreme Value, so we may fulfill our potential.
WEEK 36. PRAYER AND COMMUNICATION.
The topic of Prayer and Communication includes: [1] The study of Prayer as Communication with God which focuses God's presence into a particular person, place, and experience. [2] The experience of Divine absence, and ways of dealing with thirst and hunger for God. [3] God's prior action of grace in enabling prayer, and our reception in faith to enact prayer. [4] The purpose, essence, and modes of Prayer. Topic 36 is also explored in: Topics 03, 04, 13, 16, 17, 21, 33, 37, 38, 39, 40, 49, 51, and 52; Prayermap sections 2.00-01, 03-08, 10-14, 24; Vital verses Psalm 22.1-5; Psalm 145.18; Jeremiah 31.3; Matthew 6.6-13; Luke 1.46-55; Luke 18.9-14; Ephesians 2.18; Ephesians 3.14-21
EACH YEAR READ: Mark 14-16; Vital Verses for Topic 36.
EVEN YEARS READ: Jeremiah 43-51; Quran, Surah: 71-75. MEDITATION PASSAGE: I pray that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love... So that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. [Ephesians 3.17-20]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Chronicles 9-19; Dhammapada: Ch. 7-8. MEDITATION PASSAGE: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning? O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer. I cry by night, but find no rest. Yet you are holy, and you inhabit the praises of Israel. In you our ancestors trusted: They trusted, and you delivered them. [Psalm 22.1-4]
WEEK 37. FORMATION AND DISCIPLESHIP.
The topic of Formation and Discipleship includes: [1] The call to Discipleship as a process of embarking on a Journey to follow Jesus, by being progressively (re)formed in Christlikeness. [2] Ascetic Theology: The Patterns and Practices of spiritual development, such as Apophatic, Kataphatic, Emphatic, and Pragmatic Spirituality. [3] The process of Catechesis and formation of the soul through Doctrine, Ethics, and Prayer. [4] Education: Creating a comprehensive formation program which engages disciplines of fact and value and practice. [5] The process of Spiritual Direction and Mentoring: As we listen, imitate, enact, and mentor others. Topic 37 is also explored in: Topics 03, 15, 16, 20, 35, 36, 43, and 52; Prayermap sections 2.13-18, 21, 23; 4A.12; 4B.08; 5C.17; Vital verses Psalm 27.4; Psalm 34.5; Psalm 42.1-2; Psalm 101.3-4; Psalm 119.6, 11, 14, 18, 20, 29; Psalm 141.4; Mark 6.1,7-8,12-13; Matthew 10.24-25,37,40; Matthew 11.12; Matthew 16.24-26; Matthew 18.18-20; Luke 8.11-15; Galatians 4.12,19; 1Timothy 6.11-12; 2Timothy 1.6-7
EACH YEAR READ: 1Peter 1-5; 2Peter 1-3; Vital Verses for Topic 37.
EVEN YEARS READ: Jeremiah 52; Lamentations 1-5; Baruch 1-3; Quran, Surah: 76-79. MEDITATION PASSAGE: I shall not be put to shame, when I have my eyes fixed on all your commandments... I treasure your word in my heart, so that I may not sin against you... I delight in the way of your decrees as much as in all riches... Open my eyes, so that I may behold wondrous things out of your Law. [Psalm 119.6,11,14,18]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Chronicles 20-29; 2Chronicles 1-3; Dhammapada: Ch. 9-10. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Jesus told his disciples: If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life? [Matthew 16.24-26]
WEEK 38. JOURNEY AND DEVELOPMENT.
The topic of Journey and Development includes: [1] Life in Christ as "epektasis": Constant evolution, change, and journey toward fulfillment of our Divine potential. [2] The stages of human development and growth: Physically, Cognitively, Emotionally, Morally, and Spiritually. [3] Varieties of Spiritual experience: How our relationship with God changes and develops with growth. [4] Existentialism: The subjective experience of interior life. [5] The Goal of Growth: The characteristics of Sainthood and Christlikeness. Topic 38 is also explored in: Topics 04, 05, 07, 08, 11, 14, 18, 21, 34, 35, 35, 39, and 49; Prayermap sections 2.06, 25-26; 5A.14; 5D.08, 25; 5G.10; 5J.13-14, 16, 21; Vital verses Genesis 12.1-4,7,9; Genesis 32.24-30; Exodus 40.38; Luke 9.57–58; 1Corinthians 3.1–3; 1Corinthians 9.24-27; 1Corinthians 13.9-12; Philippians 3.7-14; Hebrews 12.1–2; 1Peter 2.2; 1John 3.2-3
EACH YEAR READ: Matthew 1-5; Vital Verses for Topic 38.
EVEN YEARS READ: Baruch 4-5; Letter of Jeremiah; Ezekiel 1-7; Quran, Surah: 80-85. MEDITATION PASSAGE: I have not already reached the goal: But I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But this one thing I do: Forgetting what lies behind, and striving forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. [Philippians 3.7-14]
ODD YEARS READ: 2Chronicles 4-17; Dhammapada: Ch. 11-12. MEDITATION PASSAGE: The LORD said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the Earth shall be blessed. [Genesis 12.1-4]
WEEK 39. UNION AND IDENTITY.
The topic of Union and Identity includes: [1] Baptismal Spirituality: How we offer ourselves in oblation for deeper union with the Triune God. [2] The transformation of our body, spirit, and soul, and the transfiguration of our heart, mind, and will, as we are drawn deeper into Theosis through Christ. [3] Realizing our true identity and self-image in God, through Christ, by the Spirit. Topic 39 is also explored in: Topics 06, 08, 11, 13, 16, 17, 21, 35, 36, 37, 38, and 43; Prayermap sections 5A.01-11, 13, 15, 16-25; Vital verses Deuteronomy 4.24; Proverbs 17.3; Psalm 51.6,10-12; Psalm 139.1-4,23-24; Romans 6.3-13; Romans 8.14-17; 1Corinthians 3.16; Galatians 2.19-20; Galatians 4.4-5; Ephesians 4.22-24; James 4.7-10; 1John 3.1
EACH YEAR READ: Matthew 6-9; Vital Verses for Topic 39.
EVEN YEARS READ: Ezekiel 8-18; Quran, Surah: 86-92. MEDITATION PASSAGE: O LORD, you have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from far away... Search me, O God, and know my heart. Test me and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. [Psalm 139.1-2,23-24]
ODD YEARS READ: 2Chronicles 18-30; Dhammapada: Ch. 13-14. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore, do not let sin exercise dominion in your mortal bodies, to make you obey their passions. No longer present your members to sin as instruments of wickedness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and present your members to God as instruments of justice. [Romans 6.11-13]
WEEK 40. WORSHIP AND LITURGY.
The topic of Worship and Liturgy includes: [1] The nature of Worship as Exaltation of, Praise for, and Thanksgiving to God. [2] The use of God's Names, Attributes, and Activities as a focal point of worship. [3] The effects of Worship in forming us and in our relationship with God. [4] The modes of worship in words, rituals, music, arts, and sacred time. [5] The construction of Liturgies for public worship. Topic 40 is also explored in: Topics 14, 15, 16, 22, 24, 36, 39, and 52; Prayermap sections 5A-I.26; 5B.01-07, 11-15, 19-23; 5B.25; Vital verses Psalm 37.4; Psalm 135.15-18; Psalm 63.4; Psalm 95.1-3, 6-7; Psalm 150.1-6; Micah 6.6-8; Hosea 6.6; 1Corinthians 15.57; 2Corinthians 1.20; 2Corinthians 2.14; Romans 5.3-5; Colossians 2.16-17, 2.21-3.4; Revelation 5.8-13
EACH YEAR READ: Matthew 10-13; Vital Verses for Topic 40.
EVEN YEARS READ: Ezekiel 19-27; Quran, Surah: 93-100. MEDITATION PASSAGE: So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory. [Colossians 3.1-4]
ODD YEARS READ: 2Chronicles 31-36; Prayer of Manasseh; Judith 1-7; Dhammapada: Ch. 15-16. MEDITATION PASSAGE: O come, let us sing to the LORD; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving! Let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise... O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker! For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. [Psalm 95.1-2,6-7]
WEEK 41. KINGDOM AND INSTITUTIONS.
The topic of Kingdom and Institutions includes: [1] The nature, purpose, and spread of the Kingdom of God. [2] The roles of various institutions within society, and how they are designed to spread the Kingdom of God, including the spheres of Family, State, Religion, and Market. [3] Institutions as means to implement “The Glory of God is humanity fully alive”: Their proper goal to glorify God through the health and flourishing of God’s children. [4] Political Theology, and the role of religious faith in forming politics toward the goal of human flourishing. Topic 41 is also explored in: Topics 05, 09, 14, 15, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32, 42, and 52; Prayermap sections 5C.01-02, 05-06, 12-14, 16-17, 23; Vital verses Exodus 18.17-18,21-23; Deuteronomy 16.18-20; Isaiah 10.1-2; Psalm 146.3; Mark 12.14-17; John 19.10-12; Acts 17.6-7; Romans 13.1,6-7; 1Timothy 2.1-4; 1Peter 2.12-17; Philippians 2.10-11; 1John 4.3-4,14-15; Revelation 11.15; Revelation 17.14
EACH YEAR READ: Matthew 14-18; Vital Verses for Topic 41.
EVEN YEARS READ: Ezekiel 28-37; Quran, Surah: 101-114. MEDITATION PASSAGE: You must not distort justice. You must not show partiality. And you must not accept bribes, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise, and subverts the cause of those who are in the right. Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue, so that you may live and occupy the land that the LORD your God is giving you. [Deuteronomy 16.19-20]
ODD YEARS READ: Judith 8-16; Esther 1-7; Dhammapada: Ch. 17-18. MEDITATION PASSAGE: I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for rulers and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity. This is right and is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. [1Timothy 2.1-4]
WEEK 42. CULTURE AND KINGDOM.
The topic of Culture and Kingdom includes: [1] The essence of culture as a way of social life devoted to a set of ultimate values. [2] The nature of the world (or cosmos) as a cultural system which conflicts and converges with God's Kingdom. [3] The different spheres of influence within culture, including public institutions, education, media, arts, sciences, and entertainment. [4] Cultural engagement: How the spread of Christ's Kingdom should influence culture. [5] The process of Evangelism and sharing Christ's Good News effectively. Topic 42 is also explored in: Topics 03, 04, 05, 09, 11, 13, 14, 15, 23, 24, 27, 41, 49, and 50; Prayermap sections 5C.01, 09-10, 21-23, 25; Vital verses Jeremiah 29.4-9,11-14; Luke 10.1-2; Matthew 10.16; Matthew 13.31-33; Matthew 16.6,12; John 3.14-17,19; John 17.14-15; John 18.36; 1Corinthians 1.23,27-28; 1Corinthians 5.9-11; 2Corinthians 4.4; 2Corinthians 11.3-4,14-15; 1John 2.15-16; 1Peter 2.11
EACH YEAR READ: Matthew 19-22; Vital Verses for Topic 42.
EVEN YEARS READ: Ezekiel 38-46; Adi Granth, Section: Jap. MEDITATION PASSAGE: For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. [John 3.16-17]
ODD YEARS READ: Esther 8-10; Daniel 1-8; Dhammapada: Ch. 19-20. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare... For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. [Jeremiah 29.7,11-12]
WEEK 43. VOCATION AND PLANNING.
The topic of Vocation and Planning includes: [1] How to discern and know and plan to do “the will of God”. [2] Discerning our calling and vocation to different roles at different times, so we may live a life of purpose and meaning. [3] Creating a Rule of Life of basic habits to practice CHRIST and grow spiritually on a regular basis. [4] The role of Vision and Imagination in planning to do God’s will. [5] The process of goal setting, planning, and time management to fulfill our roles. Topic 43 is also explored in: Topics 08, 09, 21, 23, 26, 28, 32, 38, 39, and 52; Prayermap sections 5D.01-04; 5D.17-24; 5E.19-20; Vital verses Proverbs 16.1-3,9; Isaiah 43.1-2; Isaiah 64.8; Jeremiah 1.5-8; John 14.12-14; John 15.4-5; Philippians 4.12-13; 1Corinthians 12.4-11; 1Corinthians 14.12; Ephesians 4.7,11-13; 1Thessalonians 5.15-18; 1Timothy 4.14-15; 2Timothy 1.13-14; 1Peter 4.10-11
EACH YEAR READ: Matthew 23-25; Vital Verses for Topic 43.
EVEN YEARS READ: Ezekiel 47-48; Hosea 1-14; Adi Granth, Section: Shabad Hazare. MEDITATION PASSAGE: The plans of the heart belong to mortals, but the answer of the tongue is from the LORD. All one’s ways may be pure in one’s own eyes, but the LORD weighs the spirit. Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established... The human mind plans the way, but the LORD directs the steps. [Proverbs 16.1-3,9]
ODD YEARS READ: Daniel 9-12; Additions to Daniel: Susannah; Bel; Prayer of Azariah; Dhammapada: Ch. 21-22. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received. Whoever speaks must do so as one speaking the very words of God. Whoever serves must do so with the strength that God supplies, so that God may be glorified in all things through Jesus Christ. [1Peter 4.10-11]
WEEK 44. HEALTH AND WELLBEING.
The topic of Health and Wellbeing includes: [1] Petitionary prayer and seeking our “daily bread” and practical sustenance from God. [2] The material, emotional, and spiritual resources we require for abundant life. [3] God’s provision of our SHAPE and MEANS to pursue our calling and vocation. [4] Our responsibility to exercise healthy habits to maintain our health and sustain our capacity to Love others, including proper Diet and Training. Topic 44 is also explored in: Topics 08, 09, 16, 23, 26, 32, 35, 37, and 52; Prayermap sections 5A.12; 5D.13-15, 21; 5E.01-09, 11-12, 15-18, 21-24; Vital verses Genesis 22.14; Numbers 6.24-26; Psalm 23.1-4; Psalm 103.2-5; Psalm 128.1-2; Psalm 147.3; Proverbs 31.17; Sirach 30.15; Sirach 38.1-2,4,9-10,12-15; Matthew 6.25,32-33; Matthew 7.7-8; Ephesians 5.29-30; Philippians 4.4-7; 1Thessalonians 5.23-24; 1Timothy 4.7-8
EACH YEAR READ: Matthew 26-28; Vital Verses for Topic 44.
EVEN YEARS READ: Joel 1-3; Amos 1-9; Obadiah; Adi Granth, Section: Jaap. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. [Philippians 4.4-7]
ODD YEARS READ: Tobit 1-14; Ezra 1-2; Dhammapada: Ch. 23-24. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits. It is God who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the Pit, who crowns you with steadfast Love and mercy, who satisfies you with good as long as you live so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. [Psalm 103.2-5]
WEEK 45. REPENTANCE AND REHABILITATION.
The topic of Repentance and Rehabilitation includes: [1] The process of disciplinary punishment for sin, to accomplish redemptive justice and change of life. [2] The process of acknowledging, confessing, and repenting from sin. [2] The process of Counseling and Therapy to assist in rehabilitation: Re-authoring our desires (the goals we seek), designs (the thought patterns we use to attain them), and deeds (the skills, habits, and behaviors we use). [3] Accepting forgiveness and healing. [4] Replacing emptiness and self-destructive vices with Spiritual purpose and Christlike virtues for lasting recovery. Topic 45 is also explored in: Topics 10, 12, 17, 18, 21, 25, 34, 46, and 48; Prayermap sections 5A.16; 5F.01, 03-09, 21-25; 5G.20-22; 5J.18; Vital verses Psalm 32.1-5; Lamentations 3.31-33; Ezekiel 33.11; Hosea 6.1-2; Malachi 3.2-3; Luke 5.31-32; Luke 15.13-24; Matthew 12.43-45; Romans 8.1-4; 2Corinthians 7.10; Hebrews 12.5-7,10-11,29; 1John 1.8-9
EACH YEAR READ: Galatians 1-6; Vital Verses for Topic 45.
EVEN YEARS READ: Jonah 1-4; Micah 1-7; Nahum 1-3; Habakkuk 1-3; Adi Granth, Section: Savayye and Rahiras. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered... While I kept silence, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long... Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the LORD,” and you forgave the guilt of my sin. [Psalm 32.1-5]
ODD YEARS READ: Ezra 3-10; Nehemiah 1-4; Dhammapada: Ch. 25-26. MEDITATION PASSAGE: My child, do not disregard the discipline of the Lord, or lose heart when you are punished by him. For the Lord disciplines those whom he loves, and chastises every child whom he accepts. Endure trials for the sake of discipline. God is treating you as children, and what child is there whom a parent does not discipline? [Hebrews 12.5-9]
WEEK 46. FORGIVENESS AND RECONCILIATION.
The topic of Forgiveness and Reconciliation includes: [1] Why forgiveness is necessary, both for the forgiver and the forgiven and society at large. [2] The process of forgiving others and seeking reconciliation with them. [3] How to deal with unforgiveness, while creating healthy boundaries with people who will not repent or who you cannot trust. [4] The use of non-violent, redemptive community discipline to help members toward healing, repentance, and reconciliation. Topic 46 is also explored in: Topics 11, 12, 15, 18, 21, 25, 29, 30, 45, and 48; Prayermap sections 4A.13; 5G.01-06; Vital verses Exodus 32.30-32; Psalm 106.23; 1Samuel 12.23; Proverbs 11.17; Proverbs 17.9; Proverbs 24.17; Proverbs 25.21-22; Luke 23.33-34; Matthew 5.21-24; Matthew 6.14-15; Matthew 18.15-17,21-22; Galatians 6.1-2; Romans 12.9-21; Ephesians 4.31-5.2
EACH YEAR READ: James 1-5; Hebrews 1-3; Vital Verses for Topic 46.
EVEN YEARS READ: Zephaniah 1-3; Haggai 1-2; Zechariah 1-10; Adi Granth, Section: Ardas and Kirtan Sohila. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Love must be genuine: Hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good… Bless those who persecute you: Bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep... Do not repay evil for evil, but think ahead to what is virtuous in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all… Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. [Romans 12.9-21]
ODD YEARS READ: Nehemiah 5-12; Confucian Analects: Books 1-3. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Those who are kind reward themselves, but the cruel do themselves harm... One who forgives an affront fosters friendship, but one who dwells on disputes will alienate a companion... Do not rejoice when your enemies fall, and do not let your heart be glad when they stumble... If your enemies are hungry, give them bread to eat, and if they are thirsty, give them water to drink. [Proverbs 11.17, 17.9, 24.17, 25.21]
WEEK 47. COMPANIONSHIP AND ENCOURAGEMENT.
The topic of Companionship and Encouragement includes: [1] How to select faithful friends and companions who will encourage us to be our best selves. [2] The practice of friendship: How to be an encouraging companion who helps others grow in Christ. [3] The necessity of encouragement as well as tough love and discipline in friendship. Topic 47 is also explored in: Topics 08, 15, 27, 31, 37, 49, and 52; Prayermap sections 4C.04; 5C.07; 5G.08-10; Vital verses Ruth 1.16-17; Job 2.11-12; Psalm 133.1; Proverbs 2.20-22; Proverbs 12.26; Proverbs 13.20; Proverbs 16.28; Proverbs 17.17; Proverbs 18.24; Proverbs 20.19; Proverbs 22.24-25; Proverbs 27.6,17; Ecclesiastes 4.9-12; John 15.13-15; 1Corinthians 15.33; 2Corinthians 6.14-18; 1Thessalonians 2.7-8; 1Thessalonians 5.11; Hebrews 10.24-25; Hebrews 13.1-4
EACH YEAR READ: Hebrews 4-10; Vital Verses for Topic 47.
EVEN YEARS READ: Zechariah 11-14; Malachi 1-4; 1Esdras 1-3; Adi Granth, Section: Lavan. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Walk in the way of the good, and keep to the paths of the just... Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools suffers harm... A companion loves at all times, and family members are born to share adversity... Well meant are the wounds a companion inflicts, but profuse are the kisses of an enemy... As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another. [Proverbs 2.20, 13.20, 17.17, 27.6,17]
ODD YEARS READ: Nehemiah 13; 1Maccabees 1-4; Confucian Analects: Books 4-6. MEDITATION PASSAGE: No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I do not call you servants any longer, because the servant does not know what the master is doing. But I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from my Father. [John 15.13-15]
WEEK 48. INTERCESSION AND MINISTRY.
The topic of Intercession and Ministry includes: [1] The process of intercession, and how to pray effectively for the healing of others. [2] Principles of effective ministry for those with social, spiritual, physical, and emotional needs. [3] The roles of various helping professions in ministering to needs: Clergy, Counselors, Social Workers, Medical caregivers, and others. Topic 48 is also explored in: Topics 12, 15, 16, 28, 29, 30, 32, 41, 44, 46, 47, and 50; Prayermap sections 5C.18; 5E.25; 5G.05, 11-19, 23-25, 5I.25; Vital verses Genesis 18.25; 2Chronicles 7.14-15; Isaiah 58.6-8; Isaiah 59.1-2; Isaiah 61.6; Daniel 9.3-4,18-19; Mark 2.16-17; Luke 6.19; Matthew 8.2-3; Matthew 9.35-38; Matthew 10.1,7; Matthew 17.19-20; 2Corinthians 3.4-6; 2Corinthians 5.14-21; James 5.13-16
EACH YEAR READ: Hebrews 11-13; Jude; Vital Verses for Topic 48.
EVEN YEARS READ: 1Esdras 4-8; Adi Granth, Section: Barah Maha. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the community and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up... Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the just is powerful and effective. [James 5.14-16]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Maccabees 5-9; Confucian Analects: Books 7-9. MEDITATION PASSAGE: If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayer that is made in this place. [2Chronicles 7.14-15]
WEEK 49. GUIDANCE AND INTERPRETATION.
The topic of Guidance and Interpretation includes: [1] Epistemic Virtue: We must desire to be truthful before we can find Truth. [2] Epistemology: Sources of how we know what we know about Ultimate Reality and Ethical Value. [3] Logic: Making knowledge claims clear, coherent, and correspondent with reality. [4] Hermeneutics: Interpreting and correlating knowledge from manifold sources, especially Scripture. [5] Probability: Choosing the most probable explanation of the data to discern God's guidance. Topic 49 is also explored in: Topics 03, 04, 05, 13, 14, 15, 20, 37, 38, and 51; Prayermap sections 5H.01-08, 11, 13-22, 24-25; Vital verses Proverbs 3.5-6; Proverbs 4.23; Proverbs 12:15; Proverbs 15.22; Proverbs 20.5; Proverbs 23.7; Psalm 119.36-37; Isaiah 1.18; Nehemiah 8.8; Sirach 34.9-11; John 7.24; John 8.31-32; John 14.26; John 16.12-13; Romans 8.5-6,26-27; 1Corinthians 2.12-16; Philippians 4.8-9; 1Thessalonians 5.19-22; 1Timothy 3.14-15; 2Timothy 2.14-16; 1Peter 1.13
EACH YEAR READ: 1Timothy 1-6; 2Timothy 1-2; Vital Verses for Topic 49.
EVEN YEARS READ: 1Esdras 9; 2Esdras 1-4; Adi Granth, Section: Shaloks of the Ninth Guru. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths... Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life... Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to advice. [Proverbs 3.5-6, 4.23, 12:15]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Maccabees 10-13; Confucian Analects: Books 10-12. MEDITATION PASSAGE: But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you... I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of Truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth. [John 14.26,16.12-13]
WEEK 50. SPIRITUAL CONFLICT.
The topic of Spiritual Conflict includes: [1] The nature of the spiritual world and the activities of spiritual persons, including Angelology and Demonology. [2] The nature of "the world" as systems of powers and principalities which are anti-Christ. [3] The nature and methods of Spiritual Warfare in confronting the demonic, the world, and our flesh. [4] Overcoming personal temptation from the flesh. [5] Protest: Speaking truth to power and standing effectively against systemic injustice. Topic 50 is also explored in: Topics 07, 09, 10, 13, 18, 21, 25, 34, 42, 45, 46, 48, and 52; Prayermap sections 3A.10; 5I.01-02, 04-25; Vital verses Genesis 4.6-7; Psalm 106.37-39; Job 2.1-4,6-7; Isaiah 54.17; Matthew 4.1-11; Mark 9.23-25,29; Luke 4.40-41; Luke 9.1; John 14.27; John 16.33; 1Corinthians 10.13; 2Corinthians 10.4-5; Ephesians 6.11-12; Hebrews 1.14; 1Peter 5.8-10
EACH YEAR READ: 2Timothy 3-4; Titus 1-3; Revelation 1-3; Vital Verses for Topic 50.
EVEN YEARS READ: 2Esdras 5-7; Adi Granth, Section: Sukhmani, sections 1-8. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the strategies of the Accuser. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. [Ephesians 6.11-12]
ODD YEARS READ: 1Maccabees 14-16; 2Maccabees 1-5; Confucian Analects: Books 13-15. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you! I have called you by name, you are mine… When you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you… No weapon fashioned against you shall prosper, and you shall refute every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the inheritance of the servants of the LORD and their vindication from me, says the LORD. [Isaiah 43.1-2, 54.17]
WEEK 51. MEDITATIVE SPIRITUALITY.
The topic of Meditative Spirituality focuses on spiritual practices aimed at intimacy between the self and God, and includes: [1] Techniques of focusing Christ's presence within ourselves in silent meditation and spiritual breathing. [2] Developing practices which encourage mindfulness of Christ, including recitation of personal psalms and arrow prayers, walking meditation, mindfulness, and prayer beads. [3] The adaptation of diverse spiritual practices into Christ-centered spirituality, such as mantras, yoga, and labyrinths. Topic 51 is also explored in: Topics 02, 03, 06, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 22, 24, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, and 49; Prayermap sections 5A.15; 5B.12; 5C.04; 5D.07-08, 16; 5H.12; 5J.06-12, 16-17; Vital verses 1Kings 19.8,11-13; Psalm 19.14; Psalm 34.8; Psalm 46.10; Psalm 77.3,6,12; Psalm 119.15; Ezekiel 1.1,4,26,28; Matthew 14.13-14,23; Mark 9.2-8; Luke 2.19; Luke 10.38-42; Luke 17.20-21; Acts 10.9-13; Ephesians 5.18-20
EACH YEAR READ: Revelation 4-13; Vital Verses for Topic 51.
EVEN YEARS READ: 2Esdras 8-12; Adi Granth, Section: Sukhmani, sections 9-16. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer... God says: “Be still, and know that I am God!”... I remember my chant in the night. I meditate and search my spirit... I will meditate on all your work, and muse on your mighty deeds. [Psalm 19.14, 46.10, 77.6,12]
ODD YEARS READ: 2Maccabees 6-13; Confucian Analects: Books 16-18. MEDITATION PASSAGE: Do not get drunk with wine, for that is wasteful. Instead stay filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves. Sing and make melody to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. [Ephesians 5.18-20]
WEEK 52. SOCIAL SPIRITUALITY.
The topic of Social Spirituality focuses on spiritual practices aimed at experiencing God in social activities, and includes: [1] The relationship between prayer and action in the "Cross-shaped life" of passion and compassion. [2] The art of Practicing God's presence in the midst of daily work and activities. [3] The use (and abuse) of spiritual gifts in public settings, including prophecy and tongues. [4] The Incarnation and Eucharist as patterns of embodied spirituality. [5] The Lord's Prayer as a Manifesto for Kingdom life, and political action to accomplish this as spiritual practice. Topic 52 is also explored in: Topics 01, 15, 16, 24, 28, 29, 32, 35, 37, 39, 40, 43, 48, and 51; Prayermap sections 2.19-20; 3C.13; 5D.05-06, 09; 5J.01-05, 12, 15, 19-20, 22-27; Vital verses Exodus 34.10,34-35; Deuteronomy 7.6-8; Joel 2.28-29; Sirach 35.1-5; John 8.12; Matthew 5.14-16; Mark 1.1,16-18; Mark 6.41; Mark 14.22; Luke 4.18-19,21; John 13.4-5,12-15; 1Corinthians 10.31; Romans 12.1-2; Colossians 1.24; James 1.26-27; James 5.19-20; 1Peter 3.8-9
EACH YEAR READ: Revelation 14-22; Vital Verses for Topic 52.
EVEN YEARS READ: 2Esdras 13-16; Adi Granth, Section: Sukhmani, sections 17-24. MEDITATION PASSAGE: You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. [Matthew 5.14-16]
ODD YEARS READ: 2Maccabees 14-15; 3Maccabees 1-7; Confucian Analects: Books 19-20. MEDITATION PASSAGE: For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on earth to be his people, his treasured possession. It was not because you were more numerous than any other people that the LORD set his heart on you and chose you, for you were the least of all peoples. It was because the LORD loved you. [Deuteronomy 7.6-8]
CHARTS, ART, AND OTHER RESOURCES.
In addition to all of this, I have created and collected CHARTS, ART, and RESOURCES which relate to each of these topics (listed by number). On my blog are writings which present diverse topics from Doctrine, Ethics, and Spirituality in a systemic and integrated fashion, to form a comprehensive worldview, in the topic of SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY. I also have posted many of my written SERMONS, as well as POETRY, bad FICTION, as well as PROVOCATIONS to stir up discussion, and even some BAD IDEAS that I come to disagree with later (which I have left online as a indicator of how we can evolve over time).
Finally, may the Lord of Life and Love and Light, the Holy Trinity, known to us in the person of the Incarnate God, Jesus Christ, use all of these writings, readings, and prayers to draw all us into his Divine Light by the power of the Holy Spirit, that we may participate in the Life of God, and share the Love of Christ with everyone we meet. Amen.
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