Lectionary for Pentecost 8
We are no longer strangers and aliens, but citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone. Ephesians 2:19-20
Reading. 2 Samuel 7:1-14a Lectionary readings are often interesting for the things they do not include as much as the things that are included. Today’s reading is a case in point. If the reading ends with the first sentence of verse 14, then it is a reading which notes David’s concern to build a temple for the Lord and the answer that another will build it at a later date. The picture is of a settled and prosperous kingdom and David is looking to do something for the Lord. While building a temple for the Lord will not be David’s task the reading does emphasise the wonderful promise that the Lord gives to David that he will be honoured and his kingdom will continue after he has died. The promise from the Lord is that his offspring will rule an established kingdom which will have no end. The promise is the assurance for David that his kingdom will never end.
However, if we are to include the last sentence of verse 14 which is, “When he commits iniquity, I will punish him with a rod such as mortals use, with blows inflicted by human beings.”, then the passage takes on a different character; though not so different as to discount the wonderful promise from the Lord God. This final sentence reminds us quite forcefully that the Lord can and does call his servants to account. The promise is sure yet it is conditional, for if David’s offspring fail to uphold the Law then they will be punished. Furthermore it will be the enemies around them who will inflict the pain of punishment. Though the kingdom will not fail to survive it will not necessarily be a kingdom that is always at peace. This last sentence teaches us much about the relationship between the Lord and David’s heritage and it also teaches us much about our own Christian walk. Through Jesus Christ we are inheritors of all the Lord’s wonderful promises; forgiveness, freedom, eternal life, the list goes on: however like David’s offspring as beneficiaries of the Lord’s grace we too are to continue to walk in obedience to Jesus Christ. Anything less is unworthy of Him!
Prayer. Great is your faithfulness, Lord God Almighty, your mercy is everlasting and your love surrounds your people where ever they go. Yet you call on all those who offer praise to you to live lives which honour your name, so most gracious Lord, teach us your ways that we may walk always in harmony with you. Forgive us those times when the situations of the world cause us to choose a different way; when through fear, or impatience; neglect or disobedience we respond in our own strength and forget your goodness and grace. Help us at all times to keep in mind the words of scripture which remind us of your call. “He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God”? Help us O Lord to keep this prayer. Amen
Reading. Mark 6:30-34, 53-56. The reading for today is separated by two familiar miracles; namely the feeding of the five thousand and Jesus joining his disciples by walking on the water. Our reading does not focus on the miracles but emphasises the compassion of Jesus for the ordinary people who came to hear his teaching. Furthermore it goes on to remind us of the popularity and power that Jesus had among the people on both sides of the lake; note the phrase, “When they had crossed over…” Mark is reminding us that on both sides of the lake Jesus was both admired and respected. The twin themes of compassion and power, particularly the power to heal, are prominent in Mark’s description of Jesus’ ministry. Jesus is like a magnet drawing people to him and Mark is reminding us that Jesus does not disappoint. The passage begins with the group retreating to rest and pray after the apostles’ return from their mission of teaching and healing but that is put aside in order to respond to the needs of the people who gathered around them. The reading is set out to bring to mind the Old Testament prophecy that without a godly king the nation would be lost and the sheep would be leaderless. (2 Chronicles 18:16). However it would have also reminded the readers of the promise that had come with the appointment of Joshua to take on the leadership after Moses (Numbers 27:17). The setting that Mark has chosen highlights the coming kingship of Jesus, who had both the compassion and the power to lead the people in peace and security. Mark is teaching us that Jesus is the promised king, the fulfilment of ancient prophecy. As such people can approach him with confidence for Jesus cares and responds in ways that bring healing and wholeness. Mark’s opening statement is being reinforced, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.” Mark 1:15. NRSV
Prayer. Lord Jesus Christ, you have called us together into your kingdom. Holy Lord, grant that we may be faithful to our calling and day by day draw near to you for both comfort and strength. As we have drawn our strength from you, help us to live in hope, reaching out to love and serve in your Name. Grant that we may show true humility as we relate to one another, encouraging one another to love and living together in true Christian fellowship. Give us true compassion for the people we meet, and Lord give us eyes to see what your eyes would see, so that we may serve and point others always to you. You are our life and our power, our only hope is in you; hold us ever close, that we may keep faithful until the end and be your true disciples. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen
Collect. Lord God most high, you have come in Christ to redeem your people. Graciously visit us now, that the radiance of your glory may light up our minds, and fill our hearts with joy and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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Compassionate Shepherd, your love flows from the heart of God, and touches us in our points of pain; hearing your voice, may we find healing in your word now and for ever. Amen.
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