Lectionary Readings October 25 Part 2
Reading. 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 In Philippi Paul and Silas had been beaten and put in the stocks over night by the authorities without a proper trial. Acts 16 recalls the mistreatment and the subsequent embarrassment of the magistrates who had imprisoned Roman citizens. While Paul mentions this ill-treatment he quickly moves on to a celebration of the gospel. He reminds the Thessalonians that it was not received through great oratory, clever words or in order to receive money. The gospel came in power through the approval of God and had resulted in changed lives, renewed hope and a future that surpassed any struggle that had to be faced. Thus Paul is celebrating with them and rejoicing that they have been so richly blessed. His emotion is overflowing towards them and Paul, Silas and Timothy are truly delighted to be among the church fellowship. In verse 8 the NRSV bible translates the Greek verb (himeiromai) as “deeply do we care” when describing Paul’s emotions towards the Thessalonians. This is the only time this verb is used in the New Testament and Vines Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words suggests that its meaning is linked with “remembrance”. Perhaps Paul, remembering the oppression the opponents inflicted on him is thrilled to see that God’s victory through the gospel has still been demonstrated. Whatever the reason, Paul’s heart goes out to the Thessalonians as he, Silas and Timothy continue to teach and work, encouraging the believers.
Prayer. Lord as we recall your might and power in creating the world in which we live; we give you great thanks for life and health and the blessing of home and family. We thank you for the fellowship of believers who around the world lift hearts and hands in your praise. As our voices join together help us to be aware of your love but also of the needs of those around us. As we look in to you, may we also look out to a world still in need of salt and light. Help us to be witnesses to our Lord and may his good news exercise powerful healing and wholeness in the lives of those we meet. For this we pray in his more precious Name. Amen
Reading. Matthew 22:34-46 The last time we read a section from Matthew in the Lectionary Readings we noted that the Herodians, who usually linked with the Sadducees, and the Pharisees had all joined forces to trap Jesus. This was unusual for they were on opposing sides of both the political and the theological issues of the day. The Sadducees had further been silenced by Jesus response to the resurrection which they denied. The Pharisees were firm believers in resurrection and in this section of Matthew it is the Pharisees who ask the question. Jesus’ answer would have reminded both the questioner and all those listening of the need to honour the Lord in every part of their lives. The statement automatically implied the Jewish understanding that followed on from that great commandment, “do this and you will live!’ However, Jesus had also taught that, “unless your righteousness exceeds the scribes and the Pharisees you will not be able to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Matthew 5:20) In other words entry into the Kingdom entails more than keeping the great commandment. That is why we need to think more deeply about the second section of our reading, “What do you think of the Messiah?” Jesus quotes the first verse of Psalm 110; (The LORD says to my lord, “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies your footstool.” Psalm 110:1 (NRSV); which by its nature recognises that Messiah is more than simply a powerful human being because David names him as Lord. In other words, Messiah is divine. In failing to see the divinity of the Messiah the Pharisees were in danger of failing to participate in the Kingdom of Heaven which was the anticipated outcome of resurrection. As they denied that Jesus the Christ was the Messiah they were blinded to the whole plan of God’s restoration of the creation. Matthew’s account of Jesus’ response is emphasising that Jesus is putting in place, a new understanding of the People of God, the true inheritors of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Prayer. Holy Father, we know that it is not your will that any would be lost but that all would be saved. May we all have listening ears to hear when you speak, that our lives may be refreshed in faith and love. By your grace, teach us to be true ambassadors of our Lord Jesus Christ. Like him, teach us to be caring and gentle with those whose lives have fallen from your way: Teach us to have an open spirit which allows us to reach out without fear or favour. Above all may our prayers be reflected in our lives and so by all means lift high the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord, for he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God for ever and ever. Amen
Collect. Jesus, teacher of love; in living and dying, you have declared and shown the greatest commandment; lead us to give of ourselves to God and to the neighbours you give us; we pray this in your name. Amen.
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