Lectionary 1st Sunday in Lent

   1st Sunday in Lent

God says, Do not dwell on past events, or brood over days gone by. For I am about to do a new thing: this moment it will unfold. Do you not see it? Isaiah 43:18

Reading. Isaiah 43:18-25. The prophet announces that the Lord is in action. The “new thing” that God is about to do is in reference to sin, forgiveness and restoration. Today we have often thought of sin as immoral actions and thoughts and these can be classed as sins. However, as we read of the Lord’s action of deliverance which is at the core of the passage a major emphasis is that the people have not worshipped the Lord. This is the sin of which they are guilty. Failure to worship is failure to give the Lord that central place that the first commandment demanded. I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol… Deuteronomy 5:6-8 (NRSV)A failure to worship truly is to commit idolatry and it is this sin which has estranged them from the Lord. The forgiveness that is offered is the promise of a fresh start, a new beginning in which the people can once again worship the Lord with willing and obedient hearts. We can easily think that we have “moved on” from the worship of idols, but in reality anything which takes centre stage in our lives is idolatry. This passage is a opportune reminder as we commence the season of Lent which gives us a time to examine our allegiance and maybe refresh our understanding of the Christian faith.

Prayer. Holy Lord; in Jesus Christ you have reached out to us with love and forgiveness: In your mercy grant that we may respond to your love with faithfulness and obedience. May we always keep you at the centre of all we do and say. This we pray through Jesus our Lord. Amen

Reading. Mark 1:9-15. This reading combines both the inauguration of Jesus’ ministry and the voice which affirms God’s pleasure in this beginning. Then the reading quickly moves to the empowerment which comes from the Holy Spirit and Jesus being driven out into the wilderness. The wilderness brought meaningful memories of the exodus and the nation’s close connection with the Lord for all Israelites. However the wilderness was also a place so inhospitable that humans could not survive without the provisions that only God could supply. Therefore it was both a place of promise and a place of threat. For Jesus the wilderness presented more that a trial it was a place of temptation, of choosing which path he was to take. Mark underlines this by reminding us that Jesus was “tempted by Satan”. This temptation is not simply a natural occurrence but is God’s plan to lay before Jesus the choice outlined in Deuteronomy, “See, I have set before you today life and prosperity, death and adversity”. Deuteronomy 30:15 (NRSV). Temptation is always the choice between obedience to God’s will and obedience to that which is contrary to God’s will. The challenge is to know what is God’s will! Jesus used scripture as a starting point to answer each temptation that Mark records. Scripture also records that Jesus was tempted as we are, (as a human being) and at all points was obedient to God. (Hebrews 4:15). Jesus had to fulfil this testing in order to be the Son of God as announced at his baptism. Having been successful Jesus is then ready to begin his ministry and announce the Good News that the the time to repent has come for the Kingdom of God is now with us. In these few verses Mark announces with hammer blows that the Messiah has come and now is free to begin the ministry long promised of God’s deliverance. In Jesus Christ, God is actively beginning the great rescue plan not only for humanity but for the whole creation.

 “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God”; Romans 8:18-19 (NRSV)

Prayer. Merciful God the very thought of temptation brings to mind the times we have stumbled; the times when we have fallen short of your word and will. We also rejoice for though our Lord Jesus Christ was tempted as we are in all ways, he remained faithful and true to his calling to be the one who would save the whole world and gather all into your kingdom. May we willingly submit to his leadership and humbly follow him, trusting only in his goodness and grace: May we keep close fellowship with him through the mercies of your Holy Spirit. Grant that as we commence this Lenten time it may be a season for renewing our wonder and amazement at the ministry that Jesus Christ continues to exercise. We pray in his name. Amen

Collect: Teach us, good Lord, to serve you as you deserve: to give, and not to count the cost; to fight, and not to heed the wounds; to toil, and not to seek for rest; to labour, and not to ask for any reward, except that of knowing that we do your holy will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Epiphany Part 2

Lectionary Readings.    Epiphany 6    Part 2 

“For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.” Ephesians 2:10 (NRSV)

Reading. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. When we think of all that Paul has emphasized about Christ being the power that allows him to do all the work that he does this metaphor might seem at first reading to be a little strange. To run the race to obtain the prize seems to put the emphasis on what we do. However in the light of Paul’s teaching we know that we can do nothing to earn God’s approval or receive the salvation that Jesus has won; so we have to look a little closer to understand what Paul is saying. The salvation that Jesus has obtained for us is always a universal victory. We remember that “God so loved the world” (John 3:16f) Despite that we have to receive that salvation on a personal level and to use Paul’s metaphor, we have to run to receive that personal prize: for a prize it is as we can only receive it, we do not earn it. You may remember a prayer that was used in Christian Endeavour which was, “Trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ for strength, I promise Him that I will strive to do whatever He would like to have me do; that I will make it the rule of my life to pray and to read the Bible every day, and to support the work and worship of my own church in every way possible; and that just so far as I know how, throughout my whole life, I will endeavour to lead a Christian life”. This prayer seems to capture something of what Paul is saying. We live our lives trusting in what Jesus has done, and that trust shapes the way we live out our lives. Thus while we do not try to earn God’s salvation, as we have received salvation we have to exercise self discipline because that is what those who belong to Christ are equipped to do.

Prayer. God of majesty and power, as we come into your presence in prayer we bow our heads in confession; for we have often kept you at arms length, afraid and over awed with who you are. We find it hard to understand the depth of love that you have for us, because of the sacrifice of Jesus, and because this was your plan from the foundation of the world. Forgive us Lord and help us to see you more clearly and open our lives more fully to you. Help us to be truly filled with the knowledge of your goodness. May the love of Jesus flood through our lives and so empower us to live a life that is worthy of you. This we pray through Jesus our Saviour and Lord. Amen

Reading. Mark 1:40-45. This passage reminds us that Jesus did not heal in order to be noticed. The healing that followed Jesus was always a clear sign that the Kingdom of God had come in him. That is one of the reasons that Jesus told the healed man simply to do what the law prescribed and get on with his life. Jesus had no wish to be seen simply as a healer, his message and ministry was more radical than just healing. However, the healing of a man with leprosy is quite significant.

Leprosy then as now, is a disease that has far reaching consequences. Not only is it a disease that could have serious physical results, but perhaps more importantly it means that as a leper you are no longer considered to be a part of any community and you were also separated from your family. Your only companions were other lepers, who like you lived in poverty. When Jesus touched the leper, the acceptance and inclusion would have astonished everyone who witnessed the healing. The healing though was exactly what the Kingdom is like; through the touch of Jesus everyone is included. There are no lepers in the Kingdom. In the Kingdom, under God’s rule each one is providentially cared for and justice and mercy prevail. The healed man was free to be welcomed back into his family and community but in the Kingdom the whole world was in the embrace of God’s love.

Prayer. Lord you are always reaching out for us and in love you have only good things for us. We praise and bless you for each opportunity of witness and service in your name. Lord help us not to become weary in your service but to always draw our strength from the knowledge of your nearness. May we rejoice to do as you require and achieve great things in your name, things beyond our wildest imagining. Lord, may healing and wholeness flow among us as we seek to honour your name in all we do. This we ask through Jesus our Saviour. Amen

Collect. Jesus, friend of the outcast, you are moved with pity for those who are rejected; help us to open our hands and hearts with yours that your Church may be a community of healing, burning with your light and love now and for ever. Amen

Lectionary for Epiphany 6

Lectionary    Epiphany 6

I will give you high praise, O Lord, for you have drawn me up; you have turned my lament into dancing so that I may joyfully praise you and not be silent. Psalm 30:1, 11, 12

Reading. 2 Kings 5:1-14.    This is a story with many characters but the first character we meet is the young girl who worked as a captive for Naaman’s wife. We do not know her name from the passage yet she is the catalyst which allows the key players like the king, Elisha, and Naaman himself to remind us of the glory and power of God. In addition to that, this story reminds us that in God’s Kingdom there are no minor players for all must play their part.( 1 Corinthians 12) For the young girl God was real and she trusted in God despite the circumstances which arose from captivity.

The whole passage challenges us to put our trust in God no matter what our circumstances. That is what the young servant girl did. By trusting in God, and by not holding on to bitterness, or what might have been, she acted true to herself and to her faith. Accordingly the passage reminds us that even the smallest and seemingly insignificant person can play their part in God’s great drama of touching his people with restorative power. It is the action of this young servant who introduces the main theme of the passage which is that God is supreme. However, Naaman’s story too was an act of faith. If the simple task that Elisha had set did not work then this powerful and influential soldier faced the risk of humiliation: And let us not forget Elisha seems to have deliberately set out to remind Naaman that when asking for God’s help everyone comes from the same position of need.

The focus of the passage is rightly centred on God’s action of restoration and reminds us that God is big enough to meet all our needs. For Christians it reminds us of what Jesus has done for all of humanity. The high and low, the weak and the strong: The proud and the humble all are gathered together in this story and God’s action touches each one.

Prayer.  Almighty God the Author and Perfecter of all that is; grant that the circumstances of life would never prevent us from knowing that only in you is life in its abundance. As you guide and sustain us may we also be ready to put out a helping hand to those who seek your gracious help. In a world where many are suffering may your providential care surround them and give to them the resilience that is needed to face each difficulty and disappointment. We know Lord that your mercy is everlasting and your love for all humanity is renewed every morning. With grateful hearts we give you all thanks and praise. May those who seek you find you, and may those who find you remain faithful to you. Great is your faithfulness O Lord our God. Amen

Reading. Psalm 30. In this psalm the psalmist presents a strong voice in praise of the Lord. The Lord has given him recovery from illness, has lifted him from the grave, has shielded him from his enemies and above all has given the psalmist the hope of a future that is fulfilling. Thus there is a strong sense of praise and thanksgiving that flows through the psalm. Nevertheless, the psalmist is equally clear that though the Lord will powerfully deliver yet the psalmist will still have to face all the disasters and dangers that can and do occur in life. Life events will happen but it is the Lord who gives the power and strength to overcome. The psalm emphasises that it is from these life events that trust and assurance grows. The psalm reminds us that the Lord’s providential care does not protect us from life like a blanket but rather it equips us so that we can learn to trust God and come to understand that in every circumstance God will lead us through to the end that is best for us.  

Prayer. Gracious Lord when the pressures of life crowd in on us, help us to see that you are at work providing and sustaining us. When we feel alone and without support, when no one seems to understand may we recognise your voice of calm and comfort guiding us through. Grant to us the wisdom to grasp the new life that you offer to us by trusting in Jesus. May the Assurance of our faith in Jesus give us the the confidence to keep on our journey; and may all we do be done to honour you and your sustaining hand. This we pray in Jesus Name. Amen

Collect. Heal us once again, Father, from the sin which divides us and from the prejudice which isolates us from others. Help us to recognise in the face of those branded by society as lepers the very image of Christ, blood-stained upon his cross. May we share in his healing ministry by proclaiming to all our brothers and sisters the wonders of your tender mercy and steadfast love. We ask this through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Epiphany 5 Part 2

Epiphany 5    Part 2

In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. Mark 1:35 (NRSV)

Reading. 1 Corinthians 9:16-23. The word “gospel” is an all encompassing word for it includes everything that Jesus has done: The birth, ministry, death, resurrection and ascension all form part of the gospel. As we have been reading in Mark’s Gospel the mission of Jesus was to announce the coming of the Kingdom of God. Jesus inaugurated a pathway into the Kingdom for all believers. In the Kingdom, God is King and rules over those who have been gathered in. This is the essential message within the gospel. However without believers to take out that message how will those away from God know of his love and protective care. But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? Romans 10:14 (NRSV). It is in that context that Paul writes about his commissioning as an ambassador for Jesus Christ. His commissioning is to preach the gospel and allow the good news of all that Jesus has done to gather together those who are destined for the Kingdom.

In New Testament times there were no paid clergy as we know them today. Each preacher who was called had his or her occupation which supported them. We remember that among the disciples many were fishermen, one was a tax collector, Paul was a tent maker. Preaching the gospel did not provide you with a living. Even so the call to proclaim the gospel was such an urgent commission that Paul was willing to adapt to every condition in which he found himself so that he could fulfil his calling. He always preached without any cost so that none were excluded from the message. Having submitted his life to the risen Lord Jesus Paul’s new life was to live promoting all that Jesus had accomplished. The message of gathering people together and preparing them for the kingdom was of first importance. Paul’s boast was not that he preached the gospel for free but that the gospel had changed the world and given to everyone a chance to share in the blessings that Jesus had won.

Prayer.  Lord we thank you for those men and women who have clear insights into what you are about in the world. Those who reveal the nature and purpose of our Lord Jesus Christ. Help us to be willing listeners to those who can point us on our way. Above all help us to hear your voice as you call us to the mission you want us to fulfil. May we all be faithful in our tasks and fruitful in your eyes. In these troubled days may your church world-wide declare a Gospel of peace, one that accurately reflects the nature and purpose of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen

Reading. Mark 1:29-39. As Mark describes the ministry of Jesus we see that Jesus was continuing to heal well after sundown. It had been a long day and yet in the very next section Mark notes that before the sun rose, Jesus was up and praying in a deserted place. Jesus chose to have time with God in a private place. It was not to re-charge his batteries but personal communion with God was always essential for Jesus. How often do we go to God, simply because we have a need? If we were to follow Jesus example then going to God simply to commune would be a priority. Be still and know that I am God, Psalm 46:10.

Jesus lived always with an awareness of God for it was what God wanted that was central to the ministry. His disciples were anxious to see more healing and no doubt that was exciting but Jesus’ ministry was not to heal but to keep on announcing the good news that the Kingdom of God had come. “He answered, “Let us go on to the neighbouring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.” Mark 1:38 (NRSV).Mark’s reminder that Jesus was constantly in relationship with God is important. He came according to the plan of God and for the purpose of establishing God’s Kingdom here on earth. Jesus proclaimed this good news, a message that had long been anticipated, and was finally at hand. With the coming of the kingdom healing and wholeness naturally followed. The presence of Jesus marks the division between life without God and life lived in God’s sphere. It was the ministry of Jesus that made that life with God possible. “Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God”. Romans 5:1-2 (NRSV) With the coming of the Kingdom, our attention needs to be on attending to the King and allowing him to guide and direct our lives even as did Jesus!

Prayer. Gracious God, our Lord Jesus came into the world to bring the light of your truth and grace, grant that we may walk always in that light; listening to your voice and heeding your commands. Help us to be bearers of that light, that the salvation that came through Jesus might illuminate hearts and lives. As our lives are touched and changed by the knowledge of your great love and forgiveness may we live in peace with you and with each other, ever giving you praise and glory. This we pray, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect. God, merciful and kind, you bring healing and hope for all people. Help us trust you, and build our lives upon your word; we ask this through Christ our Saviour. Amen.

Lectionary for Epiphany 5

Lectionary  Epiphany 5

Alleluia! How good it is to sing praises to our God! God heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds. God numbers the stars one by one, and calls each by name. Psalm 147:1, 3-4

Reading. Isaiah 40:21-31. This chapter in Isaiah begins by announcing that God’s forgiveness is coming to the nation. The disgrace of the nation is that she has rejected her true Lord and worshipped other gods. Now the Lord declares the sovereignty that is God’s alone and through that sovereignty announces a new beginning. The nation had decided to live without God’s guiding hand, relying on false gods who had no power either to lead or to rescue from harm.  Consequently disaster followed but the Lord is offering a new opportunity to live in obedience. This new way will come though the promised Messiah, the messenger who brings good news. There is some irony in the questions: Have you not known? Have you not heard? For they had both heard and known that with God as their leader they would prosper in all their undertakings.(Deuteronomy 28) Despite both hearing and knowing they had followed a disobedient path, but God’s loving forgiveness is still there for the nation to receive.

In the passage for today Isaiah is reminding the nation that God’s promises stand secure, they do not change and what God has promised will be delivered. From Isaiah’s perspective the whole creation beats out the message of a glorious and eternal God. After a passage which is confronting yet also encouraging Isaiah reminds the nation that if they want to regain their strength then their only hope is to come close to the Lord God in obedience. This promise is as valid today as it ever was, “those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint”. Isaiah 40:31 (NRSV).Even today this promise is worth serious consideration.

“Seek the LORD while he may be found, call upon him while he is near”; Isaiah 55:6 (NRSV)

Prayer. In this very moment Lord, you come to us. We do not need to approach you for you are always present to us, as scripture says, in you we live and move and have our being. It was you who gave us life and so we praise you for the life we have; Help us always to live a life worthy of you. May we never turn aside to lesser tasks, tasks that lead us away from your desires for us. May we continually bring our praise and adoration of all that you have done for us: May we remember always that it is through Jesus that we have access to you and so never presume on your goodness and grace. To you alone be all glory and power. We praise you name. Amen

Reading. Psalm 147:1-11, 20c. The promise that the Lord will heal the broken hearted and tend to their wounds is a comforting thought to those who are hurting. Often our faith looks for those personal touches particularly when life events have made living difficult. This psalm reminds us that God not only brings healing but also brings justice and justice brings hope of a better future. Then following on from the assurance of the promise to heal, the psalmist reminds us that the God whom we worship is the one who is in control of the whole creation. The one who promises to heal and bring justice has the power to fulfil all the promises that have been made. This gives a great sense of confidence to face life in all circumstances. The bible does not promise that all our troubles will be over but it does promise that with faith in God we will have the strength and the courage to face life.

The psalm is a reminder of how good God has been to Israel. It recounts the blessing of having God with them, working for their salvation. From a Christian perspective it reminds us of how good the gift of Jesus Christ is to us. As we pause to pray and meditate today let us with the psalmist give thanks for all that God has done for us through Jesus Christ. As God’s people we stand in a privileged position, we need to be aware that this position is to be used as a spring board to bring God’s method and nature into all our relationships with others. We are chosen and so we belong to God, it is belonging which changes us, therefore we need to be welcoming to those who do not have a relationship with God so that God may change them just as he was able to change us.

Prayer. Lord Jesus Christ, you are both Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, your promises will never fail, your wisdom and insight never grow cold. Grant us to pass through this coming year with faithful hearts, that in all things we may please you and glorify your name. Grant that we will be mindful of all those throughout our world who are broken hearted due to isolation, separation and grief. We pray also for all those who are health care workers and face each day heart breaking events. May all of us together look to you for the comfort and strength that we need. We pray in the Name of Jesus who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit ever one God, world without end. Amen

Collect. Almighty God, you sent your only Son as the Word of life for our eyes to see and our ears to hear. Help us to believe with joy what the Scriptures proclaim; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Epiphany 4 Part 2

Lectionary  Reading     Epiphany 4  Part 2

For the kingdom of God depends not on talk but on power. 1 Corinthians 4:20 (NRSV)

Read. 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 Paul is addressing a problem current in the church at Corinth. Many of the believers came from a Jewish background and as such the rules about eating meat dedicated to idols was already a point of disagreement. This was quite a complex issue but broadly speaking some Jewish groups forbade the use of anything associated with idols; while other groups considered the use of such material acceptable. This controversy has spilled into the Christian congregation. During the normal events of life in Corinth one might be invited to eat with a group who worshipped idols or you might be involved in community meals where the meat may have been dedicated to an idol and so for the Corinthian Christians the issue was very real. The “strong” said that as there is only one God any idol is without power and as such eating meat dedicated to an idol had no significance. Having the “knowledge” that idols have no power was a position with which Paul would have agreed. However there were other Christians here called the “weak”,  who believed that to eat meat so dedicated was defiling to them as they had renounced idols when they accepted Christ as Lord and Saviour. Paul is pointing out to the “strong” that knowledge without love is not helpful and so put forward two arguments that must be taken into consideration. Namely even though idols have no power they represent a force against Christ which is hidden behind them. Thus partaking of food dedicated to idols might draw in a “weak” believer who then has an attack of conscience and so loses the assurance of faith.

Meat dedicated to idols is possibly not an issue that we face, yet at the heart of this passage emerge some ongoing principles. Anything that takes our eye from the Lordship of Christ can become an idol; an idol to which we give power. Similarly, at any time when we feel that our knowledge and understanding puts us in a position of privilege over another Christian we have forgotten that there is only one Lord and all of us are simply servants. As servants our task is to serve and we serve always with love. Anything that brings disunity needs to be considered in the light of love. Paul concludes that if eating meat will cause a believer to fall then he will abstain from eating meat even though he knows an idol holds no power. Christ Jesus came to bring unity and we need to consider that unity as we make decisions working together as a community in Christ.

Prayer. Lord, you are the King of kings and the Lord of lords and before you every knee shall bow both in heaven and on earth. Through your loving kindness keep us on the pathway that you have purposed for us, never neglecting to recognise that you are the one in whom we live and move and have our being. Strengthen us in every time of testing that we may not turn aside but always keep faith with you. When the pull of the world would draw us away help us to see that it is only in you that we may find healing and wholeness. Grant that we may always work for the unity of your church, trusting always in the leading of your Spirit. Lord we pray that by your strength we may remain continually in your service. You Lord have breathed into us the breath of life, may our lives be lived to lift high the name of Jesus Christ our Saviour. In whose Name we pray. Amen

Read. Mark 1:21-28 Mark notes that the ministry of Jesus begins with the announcement of the coming kingdom of God, (Mark 1:14f), so in this passage the congregation are astounded at his teaching for Jesus uses not just words but actions. Jesus speaks and things happen. With authority Jesus announces that the time has come for the kingdom to be revealed: here and now it is present. Once that announcement is made, the authority of Jesus is challenged by the voice of an “unclean spirit”. The man with the unclean spirit is in the synagogue but is separated from Jesus because of this spirit’s presence. At Jesus’ command the unclean spirit is both silenced and removed and so the man is now healed and enabled to be fully involved in the life of the community in a way which was impossible before his healing. Mark notes the amazement of the congregation, but it is not simply that an act of healing has been performed but that the announcement of the kingdom has been verified. “What is this? A new teaching—with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” Mark 1:27 (NRSV) Once the man was set apart from the community by his infirmity but now healed he is set apart into the kingdom and become part of the community which worships and serves God.

In Mark’s gospel Jesus is the central figure who through his preaching, teaching and acts of healing draws people to himself. Though Jesus has great authority and power he deals with this man personally. His power and actions are used to gather people together to become God’s people under the authority of Christ. “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy”. 1 Peter 2:9-10 (NRSV) For Mark the authority and power of Jesus’ teaching must be spread abroad with some urgency. This is Good News and people need to hear this News and be drawn into Jesus Christ and into the Kingdom of God.


Prayer. Almighty God, Lord of heaven and earth, we thank you that in Jesus Christ you have come near to draw us to yourself. You call us to be holy and set apart for you. Help us to live always under the sovereign power of Jesus our Lord; that trusting in him alone we may serve you in righteousness. May nothing hinder our worship of you and through all that Jesus has done for us, may we continually give you thanks and praise. To you be all glory, now and for ever. Amen

Collect. Lord Jesus, you teach with the authority of God, and you come to liberate and heal the poor and lowly; help us to walk with you, and work for human dignity, that your name may be glorified now and for ever. Amen.

Lectionary Epiphany 4

Lectionary  Reading     Epiphany 4

Hallelujah! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, in the congregation. Full of honour and majesty is God’s work, whose justice endures for ever. Psalm 111:1, 3

Read. Deuteronomy 18:15-20 The meaning of Deuteronomy is second law. The setting for this book is just as the Israelites were about to enter the Promised Land and so the Law was repeated to instruct the people on their pattern of living once they entered the land. In the previous few verses the people had been warned not to attend to any other voice but God’s voice. The voice of God was to be obeyed and because the people had been afraid of God’s voice at a previous time a spokesperson was going to be provided. God was to provide a prophet who would give guidance, and help the people understand that obedience to the law secured their future in the Land. The prophets did not read the signs and omens foretell the future nor as did the leaders of other religions. The prophets of God spoke God’s word and so revealed God’s nature and intention for the people. The role of the prophet was continually important in the life of the nation, however not every prophet spoke God’s word and so along with hearing the voice of God through the prophets there was also a discernment needed by the hearers. In order to be discerning the people also had to know the law. It was the law that gave the standard against which all aspects of life were measured. By following the law the promises of God could be received. Just like today the nation needed prophets to give authentic guidance. God’s guidance would ensure that their lives would be lived under the protection God’s nature provided. This passage we are reading today seems to have a modern application. The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me [ that is Moses] from among your own people; you shall heed such a prophet. Deuteronomy 18:15 (NRSV)

Today we are bombarded with people who offer interpretations and guidance about today’s world, life and living. With the availability of social media we have all types of so called influencers who, acting as prophets are willing to put forward their views on a variety of subjects. How do we sort out which advice is godly and so is relevant for us? The promise from Deuteronomy endures, for God has risen up authentic godly voices to lead and direct God’s people. However God’s people also have to play their part and be as knowledgeable as they can be of the things of God. We do not live in a vacuum and so we should be reading the bible, praying, worshipping and drawing close to God. Then when we hear the voices which seek to direct us our discernment will be equipped with a clearer understanding of God’s nature.  When so equipped we are better able to hear what God might be saying to us and willingly respond.

Prayer. Holy Lord your voice is never silenced for the whole creation beats out your message of love for all that you have made. Help us to respond with love not only to our friends and family but to every part of all that you have entrusted to us. Help us to be true custodians of the home that you have made for us. Help us to be mindful of the needs around and to respond with mercy and generosity to those who are in need. In you is light which lightens our darkness, help us to walk continually in the light that in all we do, we may be true ambassadors of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Read. Psalm 111. This psalm begins with praise in verses 1-3. Then in verse 4 the psalmist extols the providence shown through God’s loving kindness and mercy. This providence comes to all those who follow in his way. Then the psalmist speaks of the redemption that God has granted to the people in verses 5-9. Then in a crescendo of praise we find the phrase which holds the whole psalm together; The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.

The Hebrew Scriptures have no expression which easily equates to the English word “religion” So the phrase “the fear of the LORD” is used to capture all that we might expect of our word religion. Accordingly it is a phrase which contains many elements; worshiping God, praying and meditating on the nature of God. It also includes the understanding that God is supreme over all things. When God reveals himself through signs and wonders the power that is displayed is truly awesome. Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the God of Jacob, Psalm 114:7 (NRSV)We remember that when the angels announced the birth of the Saviour within the message was the assurance, “Fear not”. Fear is a natural response when confronted with immense power for it reminds us of our fragility. It is as we realise the power of God that the sense of awe grows. It is an awe that leads to humility before God. This God is so powerful that every aspect of life is under God’s control. “See now that I, even I, am he; there is no god besides me. I kill and I make alive; I wound and I heal; and no one can deliver from my hand.” Deuteronomy 32:39 (NRSV). All of this could be daunting were it not for the injunction to “fear not” by which we are assured of God’s ongoing loving kindness towards us. With this in mind we find it to be true that, “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”; life is put in its right perspective. As such we can wholeheartedly respond to God as the psalm suggests; with praise of God; thanksgiving for God’s providence; true rejoicing at the redemption God affords. Living in God’s world and understanding something of God’s nature we can have an inner peace that endures through all the circumstances that life brings. “I keep the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.” Psalm 16:8 (NRSV)

Pray. All things come from you Lord God and by your great love we have been given a life to live. Help us to value that life and at all times to walk in your ways. Give to us the strength and the courage to fulfil your call upon us each day. Forgive us for the times we are filled with discontent or blind to the blessings that each day brings. Equip us to bear our own burdens and with kindness and generosity share the burdens of those around us. Yet Lord, help us always to keep you at the centre of all we are and all we do; that the cares of the world might not overwhelm us.  Help us to wisely use the gifts you have given us, remembering that you are Lord and we are your humble servants. Grant that we will recognise that in your service is perfect freedom. So with thankful hearts we rely only on your grace and strength to guide us through each day, to your honour and glory. We pray in the name of Jesus who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit. One God, for ever more. Amen

Collect. Father in heaven, you have shown us in Christ that your love for us is never-ending. Enable us to love you with all our hearts and to love one another as Christ loves us. He lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Epiphany 3 Part 2

Lectionary  Reading     Epiphany 3 Part 2

“But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 (NRSV)

Read. 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 This portion of the Corinthian letter is part of the advice given to remind members of the church at Corinth how they should live out their collective lives. This concluding paragraph begins with the words “I mean brothers and sisters..” which points to the emphasis that Paul wants to make. It is not so much about marriage or even ethical morality, though these are important. Paul’s emphasis is remembering that this world and its ways, is not all there is to consider when making decisions about how to conduct one’s life. Furthermore this world and the way it functions is passing away, and as change is coming one day it will be no more. However it is important to understand just why the present form of this world is “passing away”.  The world is not simply getting old and “wearing out”. The form of this world is passing away because through the resurrection and ascension Jesus is now ruling with God. His death and resurrection have passed a judgement on the way the world functions. From the beginning of his ministry Jesus spoke of bringing justice and healing to those in need. He also spoke against those who used their power and influence for their own unjust gain. (Matthew 23:ff ) For a believer the value systems of this world have been replaced by the value system of Jesus Christ. Jesus teaching was not only a message from the Saviour but also from the King who commands and exercises judgement in order to bring about justice. It is in that sense that the present forms of this world are passing away. Paul is anxious to explain to the believers that to trust in the present world’s values is to trust in things that will soon be no more because they are transient.  Such a trust would provide only false hope for only in Jesus is true security to be found. The advice that Paul gave to the church at Corinth is still true today, only Jesus can give to believers a lasting foundation on which to build a secure life. So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:1-3 (NRSV)

Prayer. Almighty God, our heavenly Father, you have safely brought us through to the beginning of the day; Defend us today with your mighty power and grant that on this day we live lives worthy of you, avoiding any danger that would lead us away from your chosen pathway.  In this day may we live lives filled with the righteousness of Jesus Christ our Lord, may our eyes be fixed on him alone. This we pray through Jesus our Saviour and Lord, who lives, and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit. One God for ever more. Amen. (adapted from the Book of Common Prayer)

Read. Mark 1:14-20. The imprisonment of John marks the end of his ministry and the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. We note the phrase “The time is fulfilled” so for Mark it is the era of the new beginning, the announcement of the Good News of God. God is now actively bringing about the fulfilment of the Kingdom. God is on the move and Mark continually emphasises this mood by using words like “immediately” or “as soon as”. The urgency of the message means that there is not a moment to lose.

The Good News is always to be considered like a parcel, it contains a number of items. It includes the birth, death and resurrections of Jesus:  It also included the ascension and installation of Jesus at the right hand of God where now he rules and works to complete this new order. His ministry is filled with signs of the fulfilment of ancient promises that God will usher in a new order. Through the message of Jesus people can see in the signs and hear in the preaching that God is now actively establishing his kingdom. We remember the words of Isaiah; “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.” Isaiah 52:7 (NRSV)

Through Jesus, God is now reigning and justly judging every part of creation. Through this judgement, salvation for all can now be anticipated.  Mark is anxious to pass on this good news so that all will hear and respond. With that in mind Mark describes Jesus gathering together the band of disciples who by following him will continue to take out the good news of the kingdom.

Prayer. Gracious Lord, help us to hear your voice as we journey through each day. May your message be a living testament to the good news that the reigning Lord Jesus is at work upholding all that is good; protecting all that is true; and bringing to fulfilment every promise on which the whole world depends. Like Isaiah, we are people of unclean lips and live among people of unclean lips; the pull of this world is ever present; even so may we more and more maintain our trust in you. Your message brings us life and so we pray that we will constantly live always under the power of your love. In all our ways may we be your true servants. This we pray through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect. Jesus, urgent and resolute, the time is now; you call us to follow, and your call is grace indeed. Help us to leave the old life, and embrace the new world with you, for you are alive now and for ever. Amen.

Lectionary for Epiphany 3

Lectionary  Reading     Epiphany 3

After John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God and saying: ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is upon you. Repent and believe in the good news.’ Mark 1:14

Read. Jonah 3:1-5, 10 In this passage Jonah goes to Nineveh and preaches the message to warn the people of the judgement of God. Nineveh is thought to be today’s city of Mosul. Then it was the home of Sennacherib, King of the Assyrians. Sennacherib has attacked Jerusalem and laid siege to that city causing great distress. Thus, at least part of the story is that there was no love lost between the people of Israel and Nineveh. Nahum describes it as a city of sin, full of wicked lawlessness. (Na. 3:1)

Jonah’s call to preach repentance and peace to the people of Nineveh is well known. This passage comes after Jonah, trying to resist the call of God ended up in the “great fish”. That is an interesting theme in itself. The city of Nineveh is described as huge, requiring a three day walk to cross, so it is not hard to imagine that Nineveh contained a great throng of people. Finally, Jonah reluctantly obeys God’s call and preaches to the people of Nineveh. On hearing of the cities impending destruction the people under the leadership of the king, repent and “turn from their evil ways”. As a result God brings about the change that was wanted and the calamity is averted.

Jonah illustrates to us that our ways are not God’s ways. Jonah considered the people of Nineveh unworthy of forgiveness. He did not want to give them a second chance. The passage reminds us that making a judgement about who is and who is not deserving of God’s love and forgiveness is a dangerous venture. Paul in Romans 3: 23, reminds us that “all have sinned and fallen short”. None of us measures up to the standard that God requires.

The animosity between Israel and Nineveh was a barrier that Jonah found very difficult to overcome. Following on from that, Jonah who knew God also knew of God’s love and forgiveness. He knew God’s nature was inclined to renew not destroy. While accepting God’s grace for his nation and himself he had no desire to see that benefit made available to people he supposed were his enemies. No wonder Jesus called on his followers to turn enemies into friends and to pray for them. (Luke 6:27)

The passage reminds us that God is sovereign and nothing will get in the way of fulfilling his plan and purpose. More than that it reminds us that God is merciful.
For the LORD your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if you return to him.” 2 Chronicles 30:9 (NRSV)

Prayer. Almighty God, another hour, another day and another opportunity to draw close to you: Another time to remember that you are ever present in our lives: Another time to lift up our hands and hearts and bring the praise of those who remember you great love for all humanity. We give you due reverence and praise you for sending your Son to be the Redeemer  who brings all things under your authority. We thank you that he is reining with you. You are the Everlasting God, the great Creator, before you all creation will bow. We continue to thank and praise you for all that you have done and look for that time when Jesus will return to gather together all who love and serve him. This we pray in his Name. Amen

For it is written, “As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall give praise to God.” Romans 14:11 (NRSV)

Read. Psalm 62:5-12 Some think that this psalm was written by David during the struggle between himself and the followers of his son Absalom. Whether that is true or not what we can say is that this psalm reminds us that when trouble strikes it is important to turn to God: but it is turning with a view to finding strength rather than simply calling out for help. Often when we do call out for help we are inclined to also seek to direct God. Our cry for help in part contains what we think should happen to alleviate the situation. This psalm presents a quite different approach. For God alone, my soul waits in silence. This really says it all. When Job experienced a series of catastrophes this is the descriptive phrase used for the action of a righteous person, “he (Job) sat among the ashes” (Job 2:7) When life has turned into a bit of a train wreck the remedy to rebuilding your life is to sit alone with God and wait. It is as we take stock of who God is and what God has done that hope begins to be reborn. It may not be an instant answer for waiting denotes a time delay. Still the promise within the psalm is that it is the Lord who resets the pathway into a new situation. “On God rests my deliverance”.  So often in life we try every avenue of restoration because we want the matter to be resolved, and quickly. When all alternatives have failed it is then we turn to God. The psalm reminds us that as those who profess a trust in God, then God should be our first avenue of restoration. Maybe if we took the verses of this psalm and committed them to memory before we experience a disaster, then when the need arose, we would by instinct turn first God. Once God has spoken; twice have I heard this: that power belongs to God, and steadfast love belongs to you, O Lord. For you repay to all according to their work. Psalm 62:11-12(NRSV).  Meditating on this a psalm is truly worthwhile!

Prayer. Almighty God, you are the one in whom we can trust, the one who will never let us down. Your constancy is everlasting and your power to save unending. Forgive us when we turn to lesser helps, choosing to go our own way and forgetting the truths that are revealed in your word. Refresh us in body, mind and spirit, that our whole life being set on your way, will give to you the perfect praise that is yours by right. In sickness and in health; in joy and in sorrow, grant that we may always find ourselves trusting in you alone. Through your comfort may we be equipped to be true servants of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord: Who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit; One God for ever more. Amen

Collect. Loving God, through your Son you have called us to repent of our sin, to believe the good news, and to celebrate the coming of your kingdom. Grant that we, like Christ’s first apostles, may hear his call to discipleship; and, gladly forsaking our old ways, may proclaim to a waiting world the gospel of new life through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

Epiphany 2 Part 2

Lectionary Reading Epiphany 2  Part 2

My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples. John 15:8 (NRSV)

Reading. 1 Corinthians 6:12-20      As we read this portion of scripture we need to keep in mind that Paul has been dealing with a real issue of sexual immorality in the church. (ch 5) So this reference is not allegorical, as sexual references often are, particularly in the Old Testament. No, this is a strong statement to remind believers that while all things might be “lawful” there is still a necessity to be disciplined in our daily living. Every aspect of our lives needs to be kept in balance. This discipline applies particularly to the physical aspects of life. Often we gauge our behaviour by what others are doing and saying. This method is not appropriate for any believer.  Yet it is more than a morality issue it is about keeping the Lord Jesus in the centre of life as the controlling influence. This is easy to say but difficult to put in place without becoming legalistic. The remedy is to always keep in mind who Jesus is and what he has done on our behalf. “For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body. 1 Corinthians 6:20 (NRSV)

Prayer. Almighty God, to whom all hearts are open, all desires known; and from whom there are no secrets which are hidden, we come openly before you in prayer recognising our weaknesses and our failures. There is no other way and so we call out to you for mercy, recognising that our Lord Jesus, by his great sacrifice, has won full forgiveness for us. We trust in Him as we approach you. We thank you and praise you for the freedom that in ours through the merits of Jesus and we pray that every aspect of our lives would be worthy of honouring his name. ‘Now to him who is able to keep you from falling, and to make you stand without blemish in the presence of his glory with rejoicing, to the only God our Saviour, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, power, and authority, before all time and now and forever’. Amen. Jude 1:24-25 (NRSV)

Reading. John 1:43-51 In Judaism it was the law that was the main object of systematic teaching. Prospective pupils would gather around an effective teacher of the law. Their objective was not to assume the personality of the teacher but to fully understand the meaning of the law and then in turn be able to teach the law themselves. In this passage John is describing how different the call of Jesus was to future disciples. Firstly, Jesus called out to them, they did not initially make the choice to come and learn from him. Then we notice the emphasis that Jesus places on disciples; it is to follow him. What Jesus taught was important but of primary importance was Jesus himself. His relationship with God, his relationship with others informed the disciples about the deep truths of his teaching. For a disciple of Jesus it was faith in Jesus and the mission that he accomplished that was paramount. Remember the story that Matthew relates about the request of the mother of James and John. (Matthew 20:20ff)   Jesus response to that request was “You will indeed drink my cup,” In other words a disciple shares in the fate of the earthly Lord Jesus because that disciple identifies so closely with him.

The disciples were and are called not because they are gifted or endowed with special qualities; they are call because Jesus himself chooses them.  We have sometimes made that choosing more like a chore that we have to fulfil rather than a calling which is a great privilege. The songwriter Phil Spector wrote a song titled, “To know him is to love him” The song is not in any way religious but the title of the song sums up succinctly what a disciple is: To know Him, is to love Him! – And if you love Him, then you will serve Him as a true disciple.

Prayer. Lord, to you belongs all honour and glory, and from you all life flows. Yes Lord,  you have loved us and called us, not because of any merit in us but because of your love and grace. We thank you for the privilege of belonging to your family and pray that we might always live out our lives in accordance to your will and purpose for us. May your blessing surround all that we do in your name. Help us Lord, to love as you have loved and to serve without counting the cost; looking always to you and your way for us. All praise and thanks belong to you; Father, Son and Holy Spirit, One God for ever more. Amen

Collect. You astonish us, O God; through Jesus Christ you bring us into the community of faith in unexpected ways, and through unlikely people. Awaken our faith, we pray, that we may be alert to the surprises of your grace; in Christ’s name. Amen.