Read Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18

Zephaniah (like the prophet Amos in last week’s reading) presents the day of the Lord as one of judgment and wrath. Descriptions of the last day in the New Testament include details taken from OT accounts of the day of the Lord. What will God do before the opening of the day of the Lord (v. 7)? Who do you think are the mysterious “guests” who are consecrated? What does the image “rest complacently on their dregs” mean to you (v. 12)? What in vv. 17-18 suggests a cosmic, universal image of the day of the Lord?

A Prayer for the week

Righteous God, our merciful master, you own the earth and all its peoples, and you give us all that we have. Inspire us to serve you with justice and wisdom, and prepare us for the joy of the day of your coming, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.  Amen.