Lectionary Reading 12 July
Reading Genesis 25:19-34
This reading marks the beginning of the story of Jacob who even before he was born was in close competition with his brother Esau. Here is the biblical origin of the nation of Israel. The three are named as the three patriarchs who enjoy an intimate relationship with Yahweh who is named as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. These few verses link the three together; each one has been called and directed by God to fulfil the covenant promise to the nation of Israel. Though these are great men each one is also flawed. Abraham tried to pre-empt God’s gift to him of a son. Isaac favoured Esau above Jacob, and Jacob was rightly named the supplanter, the one who took the place of the firstborn’s inheritance. Despite being the leaders of the chosen race each one was there by God’s call and not because of any innate goodness of their own. This reminds us of two things, Firstly nothing gets in the way of God bringing his will to bear on his creation. Whatever God has decided will come to pass. Secondly and perhaps more comforting is that if God calls us into the family it is always by God’s choice and not our own. As Jesus reminded his followers from the beginning, “You did not choose me but I chose you. And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask him in my name”. John 15:16 (NRSV) . Belonging to God’s family is always by God’s choice not our own.
Prayer. God of mercy and love, ever faithful, never changing; to you we bring our prayers of thanks giving for the heritage that is ours through Jesus Christ, who by his great love has brought us close to you. Through his work we can call upon your name and know that our prayers are heard. In all things teach us to know both how to pray and what to pray for. As we believe in answered prayer, help us always to be mindful of your guidance so that even in our praying we may fulfil your good and perfect will. This we ask, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Reading Psalm 119:105-112
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105 (NRSV)
The uniqueness of psalm 119 is lost in an English translation for this psalm uses the Hebrew alphabet to break it into sections. Each line begins with the same Hebrew letter, then after eight lines it changes to the next letter until the whole alphabet has been used. This attention to detail reminds us of how carefully the psalmist has prepared this great psalm of praise. There are many memorable verses in the psalm; our reading for today captures just a few. Verse 105, above, is a great memory verse to give us assurance. We use a lamp when it is dark or when we are not quite able to see the road ahead. So it reminds us that when the dark times happen it is God’s word that we need to turn to and it is this word that leads us back into the light. A lamp helps us see just where we are and maybe what we are standing on in the present moment. A light on the other hand helps us see the way ahead, so planning where to go, from where we are, can become clear. God’s word gives guidance in both situations.
We live in an era where it is considered normal to question very thing. A favourite group for me is the Allan Parson’s Project, they wrote a song called Ammonia Avenue and one of the verses reads; If we call for the proof and we question the answers, Only the doubt will grow. Are we blind to the truth or a sign to believe in? Only the wise will know. It has always seemed to me a brilliant critique for today. We not only question everything we can also begin to doubt everything as well. Doubt can really darken our path through life so we have no real trust in anything. Our verse reminds us that we can trust God’s Word and it is that word which will help us evaluate where we stand; it will also help us to discern our path so that we can make more enlightened choices. Being well directed will help us arrive at that place which is best for us and those we love. The next verse 106 says. “I have sworn an oath and confirmed it, to observe your righteous ordinances”. In other words I have made up my mind to give your way a try. It is a very good starting point!
Prayer. Holy Lord, your word brings life and light to all who hear and obey. Help us each day to have regard for your word, keeping it in our minds and on our lips, that your word may be for us the lamp for our feet and the light for our path. As your guidance directs us on our way, may we always give you all thanks and praise for the protection and security you give. To you be all honour and glory now and forever. Amen
Collect. Great God: your word is seed from which faith grows. As we receive good news, may your love take root in our lives, and bear fruit of compassion: through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen (Presbyterian Worship Book)
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