DIVINE FORBEARANCE

The 21st Sunday after Pentecost

ISAIAH 53:7 (CEV)
He was painfully abused,
but he did not complain.
He was silent like a lamb
being led to the butcher...

1 PETER 2:23 (CEV)
Although he was abused,
he never tried to get even.
And when he suffered,
he made no threats.
Instead, he had faith in God,
who judges fairly.

SUMMARY SENTENCE
Through Christ Jesus, we have the model of divine forbearance.

PRAYER
Thank you, God, for being so patient with us -- even when it is painful. I'm not at all that way. When I'm hurt or offended I lash out and try to put people in their place. I'm never quite sure how to approach these situations with your forbearance. But if you'll help me I'll try to adopt your approach. I'm going to trust in your judgment. Amen.