Lectionary for Pentecost 16

Lectionary for Pentecost 16

Jesus said, ‘If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’ Mark 8:34

Collect. Let us pray (for the peace which is born of faith and hope):Father in heaven, Creator of all, look down upon your people in their moments of need,for you alone are the source of our peace. Bring us to the dignity which distinguishes the poor in spirit, and show us how great is the call to serve, that we may share in the peace of Christ who offered his life in the service of all. We ask this in the name of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Reading. James 3:1-12. Often when leading a bible study this opening verse comes to mind. The verse reminds all of us that we will be called to account for everything we have said and this is especially true when we speak presuming to teach or lead others. Notice the phrase. “we who teach”, for this could apply to anyone, not simply those designated as teachers or leaders. Sometime we presume to guide and direct others by telling them for example how they should behave or how they should plan their lives. Parents of children have a responsibility to teach and guide but it is easy to allow that “parental role” become a habit in life in general. How easy it is to presume to know how to solve other people’s problems! Despite all that, this passage is not meant to discourage us from speaking or teaching but to remind us to take care with what we say and not be presumptuous in our relationships with others. Many if not all of us will have memories of things we should not have said, or at least things we could have said more discreetly. The challenge to watch our tongues is important and ongoing!

However James then goes on to make perhaps a deeper or maybe a more crucial observation and that is to consider the state of our heart. James notes that we both bless and curse with the same tongue. Perhaps this is a reference to the teaching of Jesus when he said, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Matthew 12:34). Jesus was teaching about a kingdom that is divided and therefore fails. James is reminding us to decide where our loyalties lie and if they are with Jesus to look to him always before we presume to teach or lead others. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. Romans 8:14 NRSV

Prayer. Teach us gracious Lord to begin our work with reverent awe, to go on with obedience, and to finish with love, and then wait patiently in hope and with cheerful confidence looking up to you, whose promises are faithful and rewards infinite; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen (George Hickes)

We thank you Lord that you still hold out your hand for us to take. Let us grasp all that you are offering us, so that we would not serve you in words alone but with every part of our being. Guide us to clearly hear the truth and to undertake what is required. Our longing is to lift high the name of Jesus and to be aware of his presence in each moment of the days which lie ahead. So Lord our prayer is, go with us through this day that we may not stumble but walk uprightly with you. In every way let us be ambassadors for Jesus Christ, the only saviour to whom we can turn. Amen

Reading. Mark 8:27-38. It is easy to say that “Jesus is Lord” when all is going well, yet the same is true even when things seem to be heading for disaster. Jesus is Lord, and yet we can only know this through revelation. Peter knew that Jesus was the Messiah because God had revealed that knowledge to him. Messiah was the long awaited Saviour for Israel; he was to be Lord of all. Yet even Peter, taking the lead, disagreed with Jesus wanting to protect Jesus from hurt and harm. As Lord Jesus can and does face all of life’s experiences. If Jesus is to conquer sin, then he has to face sin and if he is to conquer death then he also has to face death. In order to do that Jesus had to suffer, both at the hands of men but also to suffer through his own struggles in order to obtain the victory. As a fully human being, none of the decisions he had to take would have been easy. “but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:15

Having exclusively told the twelve what events lay ahead for him, Jesus then called together all those who were choosing to listen to his teaching. He then laid out the cost of being a disciple of Jesus Christ. Much has been said about “cross bearing”. Some equate it to the distressing events of life but everyone who ever lived has had to face distressing events and situations; this is a normal pattern of life. No, “cross bearing” is to always put God’s will and way first in every event of life, it is about denying self and living only for God. This is no easy task. We normally make decisions based on self preservation or how it will affect me. “Cross bearing” is living life in a measured way: It is about knowing what God wants and then doing it. G.K. Chesterton once said, “The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult; and left untried” This reminds us that following Jesus requires the presence of the Holy Spirit for we cannot do it on our own. Indeed the whole point of being a Christian is to rely on Jesus for everything. This does not come easy. However the good news is that it is the Lordship of Jesus that rescues us even from ourselves. As we trust Jesus and the power of his Spirit in all things, then he is the one who can guide us into a life which pleases God. The Christian life is not a momentary decision but a daily, life-time of decisions of saying yes to Jesus.

Prayer. Lord God the author and fountain of hope, enable us in all situations to place our trust in you and have that quiet confidence which guides us through all trials and troubles. Grant that we would be willing to pay the price of following you, even as you have paid the price to win for us the salvation that God promised. Give to us a future vision which helps us through times of disappointment and grief. Help us to be strong for others, with deep humility pointing to you as the true source of comfort and strength. As ambassadors of Christ may we look to you for our deliverance knowing that you know our needs even before we think or ask. Make us powerful in daily living that our witness may win others to your kingdom in good times and well as in times of strife. This we ask in Jesus name, who humbled himself and bore the cross for us. Amen

Collect. Jesus, Messiah, you bear the wounds of the cross; help us to know you, with our eyes, ears and hands opened by the Spirit of compassion. Lead us, for you are the Way now and for ever. Amen

Prayer. Adapted from John Baillie in “A Diary of Private Prayer”

O Eternal  God, though I cannot see you with my eyes or touch you with my hands, yet grant me today a clear conviction of your reality and power. Let me not go into this day believing only in the world of sense and time, but give me grace to understand that the world I cannot see or touch is the most real world of all. My life to-day will be lived in time, but eternal issues will be concerned in it. The needs of my body will make strong demands, but it is for the needs of my soul that I must care most. My busyness will be with things material, but behind them let me be aware of things spiritual. Let me keep steadily in mind that the things that matter are not money or possessions, not houses or lands, not bodily comfort or bodily pleasure; but truth and honour and meekness and helpfulness and a pure love of You alone.

For the power you have given me to lay hold of things unseen: For the strong sense I have that this is not my home: For my restless heart which nothing finite can satisfy: I give you thanks, O God.For the invasion of my soul by Your Holy Spirit: For all human love and goodness that speak to me of you: For the fullness of your glory outpoured in Jesus Christ: I give you thanks, O God.

I, a pilgrim of eternity, stand before You, O eternal One. Let me not seek to deaden or destroy the desire for you that disturbs my heart.Let me rather yield myself to its constraint and go where it leads me.Make me wise to see all things to-day under the form of eternity, and make me brave to face all the changes in my life which trusting in you alone would bring: We ask this prayer through the grace of Christ my Saviour. Amen.

Lectionary for Pentecost 15

Lectionary for Pentecost 15

What good is it if we say we have faith but do not have works? Faith without works is dead. James 2:14, 17

Collect. Let us pray (to our just and merciful God): Lord our God, in you mercy and justice meet. With unparalleled love you have saved us from death and drawn us into the circle of your life. Open our eyes to the wonders this life sets before us, that we may serve you, free from fear, and address you as God our Father. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Reading. James 2:1-10 [11-13] 14-17. As we begin to think of this reading we do need to keep in mind the biblical principle that faith comes before all things, for faith is based on trusting in what God can and does do for us through Jesus Christ. Before we can respond to God in any meaningful way we must have faith and trust in him. So, James is not saying that one is opposed to the other or that one is in some way better than the other. He is saying faith without any works does not bring life; it does not promote or lift up Jesus Christ for all to see. James is emphasising the need to put into practise those things that Jesus teaches and commands. In our reading today James is encouraging all believers to treat everyone equally. How easy it is to put people into categories, making snap decisions without knowledge or compassion. Jesus’ command to love one another is fundamental to the Christian way. When we have faith our way of life, our actions in life are guided by faith. People of faith have hope instead of despair, because they trust what Jesus has achieved. Jesus gives his followers a secure future. People of faith are prepared to forgive instead of holding grudges, rather than demanding restitution they are prepared to leave the outcome in God’s hands. They do this because they are filled with Godly optimism instead of convincing themselves that things are going to the dogs. They have faith in him because their lives are anchored in what Jesus has done. Above all people of faith are guided by God and find opportunities to serve him all of the time. God has tasks for us to do, works for us to work, and he has also equipped us to do these things. Faith gives us the confidence to know that simply trusting in God and trying to honour him in all we say and do helps make a difference and at the same time pleases God.

Prayer. We will give to you all glory and honour for in Jesus Christ You have won the victory over sin and death and given to us the promise of a future of peace and justice. Though we do not see that completely as yet, still we know that the victory has been won; and we give to you all thanks and praise. There is none like you O God. Your power and strength bring justice and mercy to all who trust in you. In you alone do we find the comfort and assurance we need for daily living.  Today we thank you for the peace and blessing that is ours and pray for those whose lives are troubled and threatened by forces and powers which seek to destroy. We pray for those in places where wars still rage and where the struggle for power crushes the lives of the powerless: As the psalmist says, “They all look to you”: so we call out for mercy on their behalf. Bring peace and justice to the world and may all creatures give thanks and praise to you, Lord Almighty. This we pray through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Reading. Mark 7:24-37. Between these two miracles of healing Mark has recorded an interesting dialogue between Jesus and the Gentile woman from the area of Tyre and Sidon. Mark does not tell us why Jesus had entered this region; some commentators wonder if it was to have some respite from a busy teaching and healing ministry. We might be a little taken aback at the response that Jesus makes to her plea on behalf of her daughter. Certainly it had remained in the mind of either Mark or Peter, so it was not the normal way that Jesus responded to a request for healing. On the other hand the Gentile woman would not have been surprised to be greeted like that from a Jewish Rabbi for it was not uncommon to be so addressed. If you read Ezekiel 28:20ff you find that when God passed judgement of this region the Jews were to treat this people with contempt because of their idolatry. However, the intention of the Greek word Mark uses here is best translated as “puppy” which might soften the “contempt”. Even so, to our ears it still sounds quite confronting. However as Mark records it, Jesus response to her rejoinder to him indicates at least pleasant surprise, even pleasure. However that may be, Jesus immediately heals her daughter and encourages her to go home to her family. Matthew when recording this incident indicates that the Gentile woman knew who Jesus was and was determined to face any opposition in order to find a cure for her daughter. Knowing that Jesus could heal, she was resolved to participate in the healing Jesus had to offer. One of the things this passage reminds us is that sometimes we have to hold on to our faith and wait for God’s timing: She knew that Jesus could heal and her faith gave her confidence to be persistent.  Another thing this passage reminds us that we have no right to ask anything from Jesus: That does not stop us from asking but it sometimes might mean that the answer might not quite be as we expect.

Prayer. O great and glorious God, whose nature is to be all loving, accept our grateful thanks and praise today. Through the merits of your Son Jesus Christ we know that no one is outside the boundary of your love; no one is deemed unworthy of your special care; each of us will be welcomed into your fold when we turn to you. Give to us the faith we need and help us to live in the strength and knowledge of your everlasting love for us, now and always. Amen

Collect. God of the outcast, through Christ, you offer healing to all; lead us to share your love with others, that our faith may be seen in the life we live, for the sake of Jesus our Saviour. Amen.

Lectionary for Pentecost 14

Lectionary for Pentecost 14

Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, comes down from the Father of lights, who gave us birth by the word of truth. James 1:17, 18

Collect. Almighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we to pray, and constantly give more than either we desire or deserve. Pour down upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord. Amen.

Reading. James 1:17-27. As we read this portion of James the old quote from someone long ago comes to mind. “It is not the things in the bible I don’t understand that worry me; what does worry me are the things in the bible I do understand.” It is hard to remember who said that first but as we read this passage from James it is easy to see how great a calling it is to be living a truly Christian lifestyle. Consider this sentence from verse 8 “In fulfillment of his own purpose he gave us birth by the word of truth, so that we would become a kind of first fruits of his creatures”. In the first portion of the passage James has reminded us of how great a blessing God has given, when we were called to the salvation that for us Jesus Christ has won. Then he immediately reminds us that with the blessing comes the expectation that we would be “a kind of first fruits of his creatures”. We understand that the “first fruits” reminded God’s people that the whole harvest was from God and was for God. We are equally reminded that the “first fruits” were always the very best of the harvest. So, unambiguously James is reminding his readers that being a Christian is a very high calling and nothing but the best is worthy as a response to all that God has done for us through Jesus Christ. James then goes on to remind us of how we are to live out the Christian life. The Christian life is more than good works; it is consistently exercising self control, focusing not on the needs of the self, but on Jesus Christ and his will and way. It sounds so simple but experience teaches us that the way of the world makes it unattainable without the power and presence of Jesus Christ. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world. James 1:27. NRSV.

Prayer. In hope and with great expectation we begin this new day, for you are a faithful God whose love touches every life and like the sun brings light and life to all. Grant that we may live as your children today, graciously walking with you in love and forgiveness. By your grace may your presence guide all that we do today: May each life we touch know the warmth of your acceptance and love. Protect us from the dangers that are all about us, keep our hearts and minds pure through your continuing presence; may we not be ashamed to be faithful ambassadors for Jesus Christ and by your power, may our work for you today point the lost and broken to you, the eternal shepherd of the flock. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen

Reading. Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23. This is the gospel reading for Sunday and it calls for a purity which is from within. It is not a purity formed by keeping laws or rituals but it is an action which begins in the heart. Ritual purity had become a central part of the Pharisees’ religious practise. By keeping this purity they believed that they were more able to worship God. The Pharisees believed that adhering to the tradition made them more worthy to worship. Jesus reminded them that the tradition had become more important that their devotion for God. Jesus further points out that having clean hands with an unclean heart distanced them from God and the actions and attitudes God required. In the closing verses of our passage Mark’s remembrance of Jesus’ teaching has gone from washing food utensils to the actions in life which destroy both relationships and people’. By quoting Isaiah, Jesus is reminding the Pharisees that devotion to the tradition rather than the commandments springs from a rebellion against God. Love for God must come first before love of anything else. Love for God needs to be demonstrated by Godly words and actions.

As we read this passage we too are reminded to look at the words and actions that our lives display; what are the things that we hold dear; are they acting as an excuse not to fulfil all that God requires of us in our Christian walk? Jesus is saying that our words, deeds and actions display the state of our hearts before God: If they do not align with what God requires then we need to ask ourselves the vital question, have we like Mark’s Pharisees abandoned the true worship of God?

Prayer. Lord we thank you for this day, as always, you have met us in your word, full of grace and truth and reminded us of the salvation which is ours. We thank you that by your sacrificial grace we are at peace with God. May we also be at peace with ourselves and with each other. Give us the courage Lord to face up to what we are, so that through your forgiving love and by the great sacrifice of our Lord Jesus we may obtain what we shall be in your kingdom. May we walk as true children of our heavenly Father doing those things which will be pleasing to him. Grant us a fruitful day walked always in the paths of faithfulness. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Almighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we are to pray, and constantly give more than either we desire or deserve. Pour down upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and give us those good things which we are unworthy to ask or receive except through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ, your Son our Lord. Amen. [Uniting in Worship]

Collect. Loving God, wellspring of grace,  save us from making petty rules, rather than rejoicing in the life which comes from you; help us to take in your truth and walk with Christ our Wisdom, in whose name we pray. Amen.

Lectionary for Pentecost 13

Lectionary for Pentecost 13

Lord, to whom can we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.     John 6:68-69

Collect. Let us pray (that our minds may be fixed on eternal truth): Lord our God, all truth is from you, and you alone bring oneness of heart. Give your people the joy of hearing your word amid the din of human noise, and of longing for your presence more than for life itself. May all the attractions of a changing world point us to the peace of your kingdom, a peace which this world does not give. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Reading. 1 Kings 8:[1, 6, 10-11], 22-30, 41-43. As we read the verses in the square brackets we see that the writer sets the scene for Solomon’s prayer. The leaders of the tribes are gathered together; the Ark of the Covenant is set as the focal piece, and then the awesome presence of God is acknowledged. So in the centre of the scene Solomon begins his prayer of dedication. The prayer is broadly divided into three parts. Solomon recalls the great character of God and so there is much praise and thanksgiving. God is the one who has covenanted with the people and guided them from slavery into this the Land of Promise and freedom. With great power God has established a secure kingdom with which to uphold his name. As Solomon accepts with thanksgiving all that God has done, he also admits that the covenant is conditional on obediently following the commandments and remaining faithful to God.  This leads Solomon on to asking that God will be merciful when any of the people fall away and call on God for forgiveness. Solomon asks for mercy because he knows that God is merciful but he also knows that people often do stray away from the right paths. Solomon is appealing to God in recognition of the quality of God’s nature and character. The prayer ends with a prophetic vision of the future. As has been noted before the Book of Kings is not simply an historic record but from a Hebrew point of view it is a prophetic book. Thus Solomon’s prayer casts forward to a time when other nations will come and pay homage to the God of Israel. Solomon’s prayer is an excellent model of prayer. It brings to mind all the attributes which make God great. It is as we focus on God’s nature and character that we are drawn to follow in joyful obedience: yet at the same time recognise that we often fall short of true obedience. As we call on God for mercy it is the joy of forgiveness which brings us that realisation of how personal is our relationship with God. Our God is merciful because he is all loving. Prayer will always have an eye on the future for we know that God is active in our world and in our lives and can and does change the situation.

Prayer. Almighty and Everlasting God; the Eternal Lord of all. By your creative power you have brought the whole universe into being and now you sustain all things in heaven and earth. We humbly give you all thanks and praise and recognising with wonder how much you love us. We thank you for guiding and protecting us. We praise you for you will bring us into your Kingdom through the merits of our Lord Jesus Christ and establish us together with all your people; we come before you in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord and offer to you all thanks and praise. Amen

Reading. John 6:56-69. Jesus had been teaching about the bread that sustains, “the living bread”: it is bread which sustains for all eternity, not simply bread that satisfies hunger only to be hungry again. The Jewish way was to observe the commandments which to some extent gave the follower some choices. Commitment was a choice. They held dear the bread or Manna which was gifted to the tribe in order to sustain them through the wilderness into the Promised Land. This bread they gathered and ate as they needed it.  Jesus is presenting himself as an even greater gift, one that sustains forever. The presentation of this gift swept away the gift of Manna which pointed to Moses. Dietrich Bonheoffer said.”When Jesus calls a man, he bids him come and die”. It was this sense of total commitment without compromise that lead some of the people following Jesus to say, “This is a hard teaching who can accept it?” It was not so much the metaphor they were rejecting it was the principle. Here was someone much greater than Moses. Giving Jesus authority over every aspect of your life is no easy task. This commitment asks for submission and goes against the will and selfhood of a person. Nonetheless, Jesus taught this total commitment was the only way to receive the eternal life that God gives. To feed on him is to let him be the one who guides and directs for he holds our destiny in his hands. It means putting his principles and ideals first. Not simply by example, picking and choosing but by giving in to him. It means letting him take complete control. Jesus true disciples were to face the challenge of giving in and letting God’s values and principles rule supreme. Only then were they participating in the flesh and blood of Jesus. It was a mystical union, played out in the realities of life. This is the challenge believers’ face each time they take communion. True communion is much more than receiving a portion of bread and wine. Communion is a constant remembrance of what Jesus has done for us and is a reminder of our need to totally rely on him. It recounts the phrase used in the Methodist Covenant Service, “I am no longer my own but yours”.

Prayer. Almighty God we give you all thanks and praise for sending your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord to be our Saviour. We thank you that in your great and generous love we are never alone, never forsaken, for Jesus is with us at all times. Lord, though we often feel separated from you, you are always present. We praise you for the companionship that you afford us in Jesus Christ. May we have the faith to trust Jesus to guide and direct all we do. Lord we so easily lose sight of your true call upon our lives, help us to live for you. Help us to live lives that praise you and clearly give your will and way the priority it deserves and demands. Grant us the insight and wisdom to discern what your will is for our lives: give us the courage to face up to whatever you call us to do. May your good and gracious will be done in us, bringing blessings both to us and to all those with whom we have contact. O Lord, let us live to honour and praise your name. Grow us on in service to you O Lord. Amen.

Collect. Lord Jesus, we have tasted, and you are good; we have seen and touched you, and your word feeds us for eternal life. Keep us close to you, trusting your promises, for you are the Holy One of God, and we can go to no other. Amen.

Lectionary for Pentecost 11

Lectionary for Pentecost 11

(someone said they had missed seeing Pentecost 11, probably because I forgot to post it! Dear Me!)

Jesus says: ‘I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live for ever.’ John 6:51

Reading. 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33. The biblical story does not make it clear why Absalom chose to pit himself against his father. It may have been Absalom’s desire to take control and assert himself. His mother Maacah was the daughter of a king. As the third born son of David he was well in line to become king. The bible tells us that he was a very handsome man with a charismatic personality. He was a man without blemish enhanced even more by his long and luxurious hair. (2 Sam 14:25f) Handsome and lovely on the outside but inwardly he was not so lovely. His bitterness at the rape of his sister and his subsequent actions mark him as a man determined to assert himself and repay every slight and take his own revenge. The contrast between Absalom and his father David is quite marked. Absalom wanted to depose his father the king; while David wanted to protect his son despite all that he had done. Above everything David wanted Absalom to be kept safe even though he was determined to destroy his father’s reign. Paternal love had clouded David’s vision for Absalom had gone beyond the point of redemption if David’s reign was to continue. The explicit command to Joab was to save Absalom alive but when word came to Joab that Absalom was entangled by his hair he had no hesitation in giving the order to kill Absalom. Absalom’s crowning glory had sealed his fate. With the death of Absalom the threat to the kingdom was averted but as our passage reveals David’s grief at the death of his son was absolute: He was inconsolable!

Joab’s task as the commander of the army was to keep the king and the kingdom safe and even though it meant disobeying David’s orders this was the action he took. Joab was able to be disobedient because he knew how in the past David had used him to cover over grave mistakes. All the principle participants had made mistakes but only David looked to the Lord for forgiveness and renewal. The story leaves us with a sense of sadness for it pictures the destruction of David’s family and as such it leaves no winners.

Prayer. Almighty God, you are a Father to us all and we are thankful to be members of your family. As we read of the family of David, we remember that families are often broken and relationships break down, so we pray for families everywhere. We pray for those who are broken because of relationships which have failed and we pray for those who have been crushed and hurt by the very people who were called to love and protect. Merciful God, we are so grateful for your love. Give us the courage to face each day filled with the knowledge of your graceful, challenging presence. Help us to draw our strength from you, relying on your mercy and love. Help us to remember that you are never far away but faithfully remain close and are ready to help us fulfil the call that you have placed upon us to love one another. Hear us as we pray in Jesus name. Amen.

Reading. John 6:35, 41-51. The Jewish leaders react to Jesus’ statement in a paltry way; they dismiss him as an imposter. John in this passage is contrasting the popularity of Jesus with the ordinary Jewish listeners who want the bread that Jesus offers (V34) with the dismissive attitude of the religious leaders who cannot see beyond the earthly understanding of who Jesus is and therefore what he has to offer. By dismissing Jesus and not listening to the teaching that he brings they miss the opportunity of understanding the new life that is now available in Jesus. In verse 44 our translation usually has the word “drawn” which in English carried a gentle gathering in, but the sense of the Greek word is “dragged”, which has a much stronger sense of overcoming hurdles in order to understand who Jesus is and what he can achieve! As we read about the conversation we need to be aware that while Jesus stands as a human man he contains within himself much more than simply being human for he is also God. As such the food that he offers, “the bread,” is food that changes a person’s life and makes it complete. That is why John recalls the statement of Jesus as being the “living bread”, the bread that not only sustains life but actually gives life. It was this principle that the Jewish leaders could not grasp or accept.  As we read this passage today the question that arises is who do we understand Jesus to be?: Is he the one who sustains and strengthens us in the ups and downs of life?; this of course Jesus can do: Or is Jesus the one who also sustains us beyond this life and into the life to come, presenting us victorious into the very presence of God.

Prayer. Gracious Lord, forgive us if we have failed to hear the voice of Jesus as he calls to us: forgive us if we have missed all that he has offered to us in your Name. Help us to be open to receive afresh the promises that come to us through Him. Above all, help us to be obedient to his call upon our lives and be ready for the freedom and the change that his love and sacrifice brings.If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered. I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning, more than those who watch for the morning. (Ps 130:3–6). Hear us as we pray in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen

Collect. Let us pray (to be defended in doubt and difficulty): Merciful Father, whose Son laid down his life that we might die to self and live in him: grant us so perfect a communion with him that, in all the doubts and dangers that assail us, our faith may not be found wanting; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

or

Jesus, living Bread, all-sufficient Saviour, nourish us with your word; feed us, quench our thirst, that we may live in love and be filled with your praise now and for ever. Amen.

Lectionary for Pentecost 12

Lectionary for Pentecost 12

Jesus said:‘My flesh is true food and my blood is true drink. Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood abide in me, and I in them.’        John 6:55-56

Collect for Sunday. Almighty and ever-living God, you have given great and precious promises to those who believe. Grant us the perfect faith which overcomes all doubt; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Reading. 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14. The transition of power from David to Solomon is not quite as seamless as our reading would suggest. Solomon was David’s choice but the struggle for power was not set aside because he was the chosen one. Still the writer leaves us in no doubt that Solomon is a worthy king, well able to continue the reign of his father. Furthermore the writer also emphasises that Solomon was also God’s choice and so despite all the challenges and intrigues, Solomon’s kingship is established. In the Hebrew bible the book of Kings is regarded as a prophetic book not simply a record of the succession of the nation’s kings. Therefore the writer underlines that God is in relationship with Solomon just as God had been with David. Solomon’s faithfulness in worship and sacrifice is linked to God revealing himself to the king in a dream. Solomon recognises that it is God who will equip him for the tasks which lie ahead and his choice of asking for wisdom pleases God. Along with the riches and power that flow from being the king Solomon is given the additional gift of wisdom which he will need to exercise proper judgement. Nevertheless, along with the blessings of a great and prosperous reign comes the requirement of walking in faithful obedience to the ways of God. Always, in every godly leader’s life is the necessity of remaining faithful to God’s way. This requirement never changes. Though God provides all that each leader will need in abundance, keeping the first commandment, “you shall have no other gods before me”, (Ex 20:3) was the key to a successful reign. The writer is reminding us that Solomon began well and prosperity and long life lay before him. “Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil”. Ephesians 5:15-16. NRSV.

Prayer. Lord, you have brought us to the beginning of this new day and it will be filled with opportunities to love and serve you as we relate to others. Help us to rely always and only on you. May our walk before you be in keeping with your will for us. Grant that we will always remember that you are Lord of all things and in all things may we be obedient. We are living in unsettled times and many are unsure about the future, help us all to look to you alone and have confidence in your promises to never leave us nor forsake us as we reach out to share your love. Look graciously upon those who give themselves to serve and help the young, and bless the work undertaken in your name. Enlighten those who teach and those who learn; renew their strength that they may not grow weary in their work; be a light to them when things seem dark and strengthen their hearts in times of disappointment. Inspire them with your Spirit so that young and old may be built together as living stones into the temple of your church. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Reading. John 6:51-58. This passage brings to our minds the communion service, an ordinance that we hold dear. By linking the passage with communion it is hard for us to understand why anyone would take offence at these words. However, Jesus was speaking into a society which knew nothing of our Christian perspective. In its setting Jesus was saying more, that there needed to be a personal linking between him and his followers. In the ancient world devotees would dedicate their meat to their ’god’ and then as they consumed it believe there was a mystical fusing between deity and believer. So when Jesus spoke of eating ‘his flesh’ his hearers would have understood that Jesus was advocating an extremely close relationship between himself and his disciples. Jesus is saying to his followers that he is the bread of life, indeed he is the “living bread”. In the Greek language, in which the scripture was first written, this saying indicated that Jesus is the food which has life within it. Therefore those who eat this bread will live. Some Jews took offence at this, deliberately misinterpreting what Jesus had said. Yet the truth still remains, Jesus is the source of true life and when we rely on his strength and power we can really live. However we need to see that Jesus is talking about more than a communion remembrance, he is expecting that our linkage with him will be absolute. Only total reliance on Jesus will suffice to give us the eternal life of which he speaks. Our reliance on Jesus must not be theoretical but absolute, nothing less will do.

Prayer. Most gracious Lord, you have given so many promises to your people and you are always faithful in fulfilling your promises. Grant to us the wisdom and courage to trust in you alone as we live our lives. May we be fully reliant on you for all our needs. Give us the wisdom and insights to see where you want us to go. May we be as faithful to you as you have been to us. Guide us through each day we pray, that we may not miss those special times when we might be used by you to bring comfort and hope to others. Grant that in all things, we may rely on the power of your love and the presence of your Holy Spirit. May we be faithful in our witness and fruitful in our work, to the honour and glory of your name. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen

Collect.  Jesus, Word made flesh, we thank you for the holy meal in which you give yourself to us; help us so to receive your body and blood, that we may grow in grace and strength, and live daily in praise and thanksgiving, now and for ever. Amen.

Lectionary for Pentecost 10

Lectionary for Pentecost 10

Jesus says: ‘I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never be hungry,

and whoever believes in me will never thirst. John 6:35

Reading. 2 Samuel 11:26 to 12:13a. Our reading for today concludes the sorry saga of David’s fall. ( 1 Kings 15:5 notes that this was David’s defining transgression). David took Bathsheba into his home as his wife, perhaps trying to make amends for the wrong that he had done to her. The position of a widow was precarious in the ancient world and the incident could not have remained hidden. The disgrace would have made life very hard for Bathsheba and so becoming a wife of the king gave her security and status.  David is trying to make restitution for the life she has lost. Thinking that things can return to normal, it is then that Nathan brings a prophetic message to King David, reminding us that God is always involved in the life of His People. By presenting the story in a different way David’s sense of injustice and exploitation is stirred: As such he is forced to sense the enormity of what he had done. In using his power and authority to exploit both Bathsheba and Uriah he had failed to use correctly the gracious gifts that God had given to him. With Nathan using an allegory David is able to recognise that he has abused the trust that God had placed in him. The final sentence of our passage brings home the reality, “I have sinned against the LORD.” From this point on the biblical story of David is marked by increasing instability and disruptive family events. Even though David is granted forgiveness the consequences from his actions will continue to be experienced in his life.

The Psalm set down for this set of readings in 51. It has long been regarded as David’s appeal and response to God and reminds us that he accepted God’s forgiveness as well as the consequences of his actions. “Against you, you alone, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless when you pass judgment”. Psalm 51:4. NRSV The biblical writer by recounting the whole story from David’s life is reminding us as readers that our actions have consequences both in our relationships with those around us and also with God himself.

Prayer. With the Psalmist let us pray; Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me. Do not cast me away from your presence, and do not take your Holy Spirit from me.  Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit. Give to me an obedient heart. Then Lord may I fully live in your presence, pleasing you above all other: Grant me that joy now and always. Amen

Reading. John 6:24-35. Jesus here enters into a conversation with the crowds who gathered to ask him questions. He recognises that the crowd are looking for something more and directs their attention towards God through the statement, “Do not work for food that does not sustain beyond this life”. As religious people they recognise that there is more to prepare for than this life but want tangible proof. The emphasis on having bread to eat reminds them of the sustaining manna that allowed the people to reach the Promised Land. Jesus reminds them that the manna which was God’s gift only sustained them for their earthly journey. They need a greater gift than the manna. Jesus is teaching them that the way to receive the bread that gives life is to trust the “work” that God is doing; that is the work that Jesus is doing! It is that truth that brings our passage to an end. Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35). The passage reminds us that many religious people, even people of faith want to work in order to receive the promises of God; yet as a Christian there is only one way and that is to rely on the “work” that Jesus has done. To not rely solely on what Jesus has done will only result in receiving “bread which perishes”. In an affluent situation it is easy to feel that we are self sustaining and forget that the truly essential things of life are always gifts from God. Jesus was pointing his hearers to this reliance on God and John in turn is reminding his readers down through the centauries that the message has not changed. Only the bread that Jesus provides will give true life. As we read this passage our prayer should be “Sir, give us this bread always!”

Prayer. Forgive us Lord, for despite all our rushing and always thinking we have no time, you are the one who has our life and hope in your hand. Let us turn to you again today Lord and find in You, as we have found before, the peace and security which draws us away from the world to be refreshed, and then allows us to return to the world with renewed hope and a peaceful sense of your presence in our lives. Lord, breathe into us the breath of life. Let us place everything in your hands so that we may live for you, in your power, and with your purpose. In our hearts may we be fully at peace so that with our wills and our minds we may serve as you desire. Grant that we may live to give you all glory. We pray in Jesus’ Name. Amen

Collect. Heavenly Father, you have placed within the hearts of all your children a longing for your word and a hunger for your truth. Grant that, believing in the One whom you have sent, we may know him to be the true bread of heaven and food of eternal life, your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom with you and the Holy Spirit be glory and honour for ever and ever. Amen.

or

O God, satisfier of hunger, you sent your Son to turn our hearts and minds from evil; help us to steadfastly look to Christ in times of plenty or famine, that we may never hunger or thirst for any other; in the name of our Saviour Jesus. Amen.

Lectionary for Pentecost 9

Lectionary for Pentecost 9 (17)

Be glad and rejoice in the Lord; shout for joy, all who are true of heart.                  Psalm 32:11

Reading. 2 Samuel 11:1-15 This unedifying story about David reminds us that the bible describes its major players as they really are: the opening sentence sets the scene for what will follow. It was the time that kings went out to war but David did not go. Bathsheba is bathing on the roof of her house, one of the few places that afforded her privacy with her husband away. The kings’ house gave a commanding view of the whole neighbourhood and so Bathsheba’s bathing was observed. What follows is both rape and adultery. These actions are quickly followed by deception and murder.

This incident in the life of David is referred to a number of times but is most often described as a sin against Uriah.( 2Kings 15:5) Uriah the Hittite must have had some status as his property was built next door to the king’s house. He was a man of loyalty and integrity, one of David’s generals, and is mentioned in the thirty mighty warriors of David (1 Chronicles 11:41). David tried to use his position and power to make Uriah the scapegoat who would shield David from his sinful adultery with Bathsheba. In this biblical account Uriah’s integrity is depicted as far superior to David’s even though it leads to his murder. Looking back on this story after three thousand years we might decide that nothing much has changed. The sinfulness of humanity means that the powerless and vulnerable, and women in particular are still exploited. We might also wonder why it is included in the biblical account of David’s reign. It is hard for us to understand the ultimate power that a king like David enjoyed: Everyone was subject to his authority. Equally, it is hard to reconcile that a godly person like David could stoop to such a despicable course of action. Paul reminds us that even the godly can fall away. ( Romans 3:12-23) The story goes from a look, to an action and ends with murder; yet that is not the end of the story. As we follow the story of David and then of the ongoing united kingdom of Israel, things will never be the same again; things will never be as successful again. This reprehensible event has ongoing adverse consequences. How easy it is to become complacent with the blessings that the Lord affords and then how easily the blessings slip away. However, despite all that David had done the Lord’s forgiveness availed for him. Psalm 51 reveals how David threw himself on God’s mercy and did receive the acceptance he craved. Though he was forgiven the consequences of his failure to control the use of his power and authority remained with him.    “No one, when tempted, should say, “I am being tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil and he himself tempts no one. But one is tempted by one’s own desire, being lured and enticed by it; then, when that desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and that sin, when it is fully grown, gives birth to death. Do not be deceived, my beloved. James 1:13–16.NRSV

Prayer. Almighty God, you have called us to be your family on earth and have given us good gifts with which to serve you through others. Grant us grace to use our gifts wisely and without favour, so that your blessing may touch all whom we serve. By your power may our work and witness be fruitful and faithful in presenting not our own grand schemes but your good and perfect will. Grant that nothing that we may do or say be an impediment to your saving grace. Forbid it Lord that we would ever presume upon your gracious love or use the gifts you give unwisely. May we see many come to know and love you and find their lives renewed and enriched. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Reading. John 6:1-21. John’s setting is quite different from the other miraculous feedings in the New Testament. In the synoptic gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke, the miraculous feeding comes at the end of a day’s teaching; here in John the crowd is coming to be taught and to see more of the healing signs that Jesus did. John records specifically that it is the time of Passover. It is set in Jerusalem and not a desert place as are the other descriptions. Due to its location and the festival of Passover, in John’s mind the sign points beyond the miracle of feeding to the one who will supply all the needs of the people. Passover reminded the people of God’s intervention and rescue from slavery in Egypt. It was more than a rescue from slavery it was also a rescue from death to life and the promise of an everlasting homeland. The promise of the coming “prophet” long awaited, quickly comes into the minds of the people and so they want to proclaim him as king. There would have been much emotion stirred by these remembrances. Jesus removes himself so that the crowd does not escalate the situation and precipitate a premature confrontation with the Jewish authorities.

As we read this snapshot of Jesus’ ministry we need to remember that John is writing almost a generation after Jesus has returned to his Father. His reason for writing is not simply to remind the readers that Jesus performed these wonderful signs but to emphasise that Jesus was and is the promised Messiah. The final sentence of chapter 20 makes that very clear: “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and through believing you may have life in his name.” John 20:31. The significance of the coming Messiah is perhaps not as meaningful to us as it would have been to the early Jewish converts. With the arrival of Messiah a new dawning for the people of God has arrived. It marks a new beginning for all of humanities’ relationship with God. The New Covenant that was promised through the prophet Jeremiah has come into being. (Jeremiah 31:31ff). John is reminding both Jew and Gentile of this new beginning that is now available through the ministry of Jesus: and it is more than a prompt, it is a challenge to review how that new relationship is working out.

Prayer. Almighty God our Lord Jesus, came among us not to be served but to serve, and through His gracious works we have all benefited. Grant that we having been served by Him are able to serve. Grant Lord that we may do so with joy, knowing that we follow in the footsteps of the Lord Jesus Christ. Help us to look not to our own needs but to the needs of others, not to our own skills but to your creative gifts, so that what we are able to impart through service may be a true witness to your love and promise of salvation to others. Lord God, forgive the timid nature of our discipleship. We have remembered our own hurts while ignoring the hurts we have caused to others. We confess that we have been hasty in our judgements, thoughtless in our condemnation, and reluctant in our forgiveness. We have allowed the mantle of “Christian” to rest too easily on our shoulders and unlike our Lord, we have not borne one another’s burdens. Grant us new wisdom, insight and courage that we may serve you as you deserve. In Jesus name we pray. Amen

Collect. Let us pray (for the faith to recognise God’s presence in our world):

God our Father, open our eyes to see your hand at work in the splendour of creation and in the beauty of human life. Touched by your hand our world is holy. Help us to cherish the gifts that surround us, to share your blessings with our brothers and sisters, and to experience the joy of life in your presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

or

God our maker, you formed the world and all that is in it, and you desire all people to share its plenty; help us to look for the possibilities you bring, that we may be fed by your justice, for the sake of Christ. Amen.

Lectionary for Pentecost 8

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.

or

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.

Lectionary for Pentecost 7

Lectionary readings for Pentecost 7

The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it, the world, and those who live in it. Psalm 24:1

Reading. 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19. The normal human reaction to the death of Uzziah is to feel that a great injustice has been done. Surely his intention was simply to save the Ark from falling and being damaged!  Perhaps if we think that way we should remember the old adage that, “You can’t win an argument with God!”. The Ark was lost to the Philistines because of the people’s disobedience. This disobedience was emphasised with the behaviour of Eli’s sons who ignored the Law and so led the people astray. The loss of the Ark demeaned God’s sovereignty for the Ark was not simply an object, it represented God’s covenant with His People. There were proscribed laws which governed the treatment and reverence that the Ark demanded. The Ark was not to be carried on a cart, not even a new cart. A high status Lady and Gentleman would not be expected to ride on a cart! Similarly it was inappropriate for the Ark of the Covenant to be moved by ox and cart for it did not show the respect the Ark of the Covenant demanded or deserved. There were proper procedures set down for the transport of the Ark. (Exodus 25:13-15) Similarly there were people from the priestly line who were set aside to be the ones who carried the Ark. Respect for the Ark had always translated into respect for God and his Law which kept Israel safe. If you have continued to read to this point you may still not be convinced the punishing of Uzziah was warranted. However the relationship between God and his people was vested in the Law and by living under the Law it had to be all obeyed not just a few parts of the Law. If the laws set down had been followed the need to “save” the Ark would never have arisen! Indeed it would not have been lost in the first place. We might notice that as the Ark returned the second time David organised that the Ark was carried as required by the law. Yet as Christian readers what are we to make of this passage? One thing that becomes clear is how different our faith is because of what Jesus has done, for we no longer live under the Law but under grace. What a privilege it is to know Jesus as Lord and Saviour! Even so the passage also reminds us that we should in no way take God for granted. As Paul says in Romans. “Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness toward you, provided you continue in his kindness; otherwise you also will be cut off”. (Romans 11:22). The passage helps us rethink our own relationship with God.

Prayer. Lord you call us to walk a narrow way, yet you do not call us to walk alone but in the company of all your people. Forgive us from the feelings of self pity which place us always as the victim; help us to recognise your sovereignty in all situations and not presume upon your goodness and grace; in every case help us to take hold of your hand and draw from you strength for the journey. Then Lord, being so strengthened help us to help each other, that we may walk in grace and forgetting what was behind strain forward to what is still to be. As we journey on may we be more and more aware of your companionship and take greater comfort from your eternal presence. Amen

Reading. Mark 6:14-29. Mark recalls the death of John the Baptist in great detail. The Herod mentioned here is Herod Antipas 11 and was named Tetrarch in Jerusalem. He was the son of Herod the Great by his first wife. The Herodians were known for their vindictive and irrational behaviour. Anyone who was a threat either real or imagined was simply crushed, sons, wives, close relatives, no one was exempted. The popular saying was, “It is better to be Herod’s dog than his son!” The Herodians were from the family of Esau, (Jacob’s brother). As Edomites they were Jews by conversion and were universally disliked and distrusted by the Jews. As Mark describes, John was arrested by King Herod after he had censured him for divorcing his wife Phasaelis and then unlawfully marrying Herodias, the wife of his brother Herod Philip I. The foolish behaviour which led to the death by beheading of John was perfectly in keeping with King Herod’s behaviour. Despite the brutal ending Mark is at pains to relate that Herod was afraid of the pronouncements that John was making and did consider him to be a prophet. As we consider this story we might wonder why Mark in his rather brief Gospel has chosen to relay this sordid scene in such detail. This passage marks the death of John the Baptist, while Jesus lives on. John had been recognised by the people as a prophet after the style of Elijah. Elijah was, like John, a forerunner who announced the coming kingdom of God which is a significant theme in Mark’s Gospel. So in this passage Mark is reminding his readers of the contrast between the kingdom that Jesus is presenting and the kingdom that is presented by the world and Herod. Herod’s kingdom promoted injustice, intolerance, and disobedience to the Law: whilst the kingdom that Jesus inaugurates is exactly the opposite. The Kingdom of God promotes justice, healing and wholeness for all sections of society. Mark is presenting a choice between the way of the world, represented by Herod, or the way of God, represented by His Son, Jesus Christ. For Mark it is no contest, as he immediately goes on to describe the feeding of the Five Thousand. 

He said to them, “Elijah is indeed coming first to restore all things. … 13 But I tell you that Elijah has come, and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written about him.” Mk 9:12–13.

Prayer. Almighty God we thank you that in Jesus Christ, the kingdoms of this world have become the Kingdom of our Lord and that his reign will never end. Though we know that Jesus has won the victory, never the less Lord, we confess that mostly we hope that life will be easy and we will not have to face the hard situations of life. Forgive us Lord for our wish to shy away from life’s realities. Help us to take the hand that you offer and drawing our strength from you face each day with a confidence that reflects your powerful love in our lives. When we face difficulties may we experience the powerful sense of your presence. Lord without you we are lost, and yet we know that you have promised always to be with us as we face the rigours of life. We thank you that you are a faithful God, one in whom we can place complete trust. In every way, forgive and cleanse us and make us ready to receive our Lord when he comes again. Amen

Collect. Almighty God, you have made us for yourself, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in you. May we find peace in your service now, and in the world to come, see you face to face; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

or

God our refuge and strength, you call us to give ourselves to Christ, whether life is long or brief; ground us in your love and anchor us in your grace, that we may find peace and joy  in knowing you; this we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.