Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“What should I do then? I will pray with the spirit, but I will pray with the mind also; I will sing praise with the spirit, but I will sing praise with the mind also.”
NL Daily Devotion for Saturday, May 11, 2024
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
This refers to a highly practical matter. Some people speak in tongues, which, it is implied by this text, is nonsensical, Spirit-driven utterance requiring interpretation by another person (not always available). Others prophesy, which is speaking God’s words directly to others. Tongues=praying with the spirit; Prophecy=praying with the mind. Paul is clear that prophecy is superior because it’s direct. Not that speaking in tongues is bad, but it’s not really the point.
What this makes me think of is the difference between someone who is highly gifted in understanding (of theology, for example) but woefully bad at being able to make others understand, and someone who might not have the theological depth or training but is able to get God’s love, grace, and care across with clarity. Or maybe the way we assume adults have more intelligence, wisdom and insight than children, but are blown away when those children cut to the heart of some passage of scripture with a theology which, while simple, is deeply profound. The point is that we, who read and reflect on scripture together as a community, strive to make God’s word as accessible as possible to all who are listening, rather than trying to impress ourselves or others with our intellects.
How do I balance mind and spirit in my prayer and praise?
