Lectionary notes

Lectionary 13 September

Lectionary Reading 13 September

But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and you did not forsake them. Nehemiah 9:17 (NRSV)

Read Exodus 14:19-31 As we read the story of the Red sea crossing we need to remember that it is not simply a story discrete among a series of stories for the bible recalls the one story of the relationship between God and his people. If we were to take the Red sea crossing in isolation then it becomes a violent, even severe story of God’s action against Israel’s enemies. It is certainly a very dramatic description of the fate of both the fleeing Israelites and the pursuing Egyptian army of Pharaoh. There is an awesome scene in the old film titled The Exodus where the imposing figure of Moses stretches out his staff and the sea piles up. The Israelites rush across and then way in the background is the chaos as the army of Pharaoh is swept away in a tangle of arms and legs! However that is not the complete picture for this crossing unfolds after many chapters describing the relationship between Moses and the Israelites, and Pharaoh and his advisors. Pharaoh’s heart was hardened against releasing the Israelites again and again with each succeeding punishment being more brutal than the last. Finally the catastrophe of the Red sea crossing sweeps the army away and Egypt is sorely grieved. For the reader the description of the Red sea crossing is a reminder that the Lord God is determined to release the Israelites from the bondage of Egypt. It also reinforces the idea that to stand against God is to risk the judgement of disobedience, along with the consequences that disobedience brings. Still above all the description is meant to emphasise that the sign of God’s deliverance is meant to lead the nation to trust completely in God and his servant Moses. Israel saw the great work that the LORD did against the Egyptians. So the people feared the LORD and believed in the LORD and in his servant Moses. Exodus 14:31 (NRSV)

Prayer. You Lord are the great Creator and Sustainer of all that is; every living thing owes allegiance to you and so we offer our humble thanks and praise. You are the one who sustains life and health and strength and so it is to you that we turn as this new week begins. Help us to keep faithfully to your will and way and in all we do, may we walk in obedience to your desires. Save us from the folly of dwelling too much on those things which are of no importance, all the while ignoring the essential things of life. Guide and direct us through this day and every day that we may walk hand in hand with you. This we ask through Jesus Christ your most obedient servant. Amen

Read Psalm 114. Our psalm today draws the remembrance of the victory resulting from the sojourn through the wilderness and into the Promised Land. It is in a worship setting that the psalmist genuinely recognises that the whole creation responds to the command of God in order to deliver the obedience that is necessary to fulfil God’s will. The psalmist describes in poetic language how the sea and the Jordan River could not stand in the way of the deliverance of the Nation. In the desert the dry rocks provide water to sustain the people as they moved through the most barren of places. Swept aside are the grumblings and the hardships as the psalmist offers up to God the glory of all that has been accomplished through God’s will. It is a psalm of celebration fit for use in worship. It gives all glory to God while at the same time assuring Israel that their God, true to his word has accomplished true salvation for the people. It is a psalm through which the people draw confidence for daily living.

Prayer. Gracious Lord, we give you thanks and praise for your faithfulness to us. In all things you continue to guide us. Help us to walk in your ways and always look to you for the wisdom and understanding we need in order to be the people you have called us to be. By your grace, help us to live lives reflecting your love for us as we in turn love those around us. As you forgive may we also be forgiving and in all ways seek to serve those around us. Today we pray remembering those who are in need of our prayers; those who are sick or unable to venture from their homes. We pray for those who are lost at sea and for those who are searching for them, and also their loved ones and family members. In your great love you gave us Jesus to be our Saviour, may we through your love live lives that are worthy of your sacrifice. In all things we give you thanks through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect. O God of justice and love, you pardon us if we pardon our brothers and sisters: Create in us a new heart in the image of your Son, a heart ever greater than any offence it suffers, that the world may remember how much you love us. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Added Notes for Sept 6

These sermon notes are for Sunday 6 September. As always if they trigger ideas use them.

Romans 13v14 Instead put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

I am sure that many will remember that 1972 Goff Whitlam came to government on the slogan, “It’s Time!” His gurus might have taken this short passage from Romans as a springboard because that is pretty much what Paul is saying in this passage. Besides this, you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armour of light; Romans 13:11-12 (NRSV)

Be alert; take stock of what’s around you. It was a message directed firmly at the Christians.

The bible is not a rule book for outsiders; it is a message for us. If we have learnt anything from our present global situation it is we are not in charge. Despite all our science and technology knowledge we as a human race have been shown up. We have been shown up, we are not in control.

But then that begs the question, if we are not, “Then who is”?

And that is why Paul asks the question for it is a perennial question, Who is calling the shots in your life. To answer that you need to look around.

Christians are familiar with the Lord’s prayer. Used in worship countless time. “Pray then in this way: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:9-10

So we are praying that heaven and earth will be joined as one and this will be the place where God rules, God reigns and God’s in charge. And we pray for that, every time we say the Lord’s Prayer. When you pray say. Your Kingdom come, your will be done on earth, just as it is in heaven. God’s reign and rule visible here on earth.

When Jesus came he began by announcing that the kingdom was at hand. That it indeed was now beginning. Matthew records that immediately after the temptations Jesus began, “the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” From that time Jesus began to proclaim, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Matthew 4:16-17

The light has dawned repent and believe. The kingdom is here. This repentance is not just a call to turn from the things we call sins, it is that, but it is much more than that, we need to see that God’s Kingdom is now dawning and we need to repent and believe in the Kingdom that Jesus Christ is creating. We have become so fixated on morality that we have forgotten who we are and how we became who we are. For we are Christ’s ones. Rescued from darkness and placed 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 2:10

Living in the kingdom demands a new morality. Those who live in the kingdom owe their allegiance to the King. Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8

So Paul says in our passage , “you know what time it is, how it is now the moment for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers; the night is far gone, the day is near. Let us then lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armour of light; Romans 13:11-12 We need to wake up to a new awareness, that Jesus has conquered sin and death, and we can live filled with hope.

Every writer in the New Testament wrote from the perspective that Jesus was alive after being dead. That Jesus lives, gave them the confidence to face everything and anything the pagan world threw at them. The persecutions, the reviling, the loneliness of being excluded. They lived knowing that Jesus is now reigning, working to bring all the principalities and all the powers under his command. And he is working to that day when the work will be at an end and he will hand back all things to the Father

13v14 Instead put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

To live making the choices that please Jesus Christ. Not because I choose but because Jesus’ choice guides me. So I want only to do what is right in Christ’ view.

In answer to the question, Who is in control? Then the answer is Jesus Christ and we as his disciples need to live at his command, in his way. We are to be the salt and light: The beacons of hope in a world still emerging from the darkness. We need to let our lights shine. Celebrating that Jesus lives. We are to put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh. We keep our eye on Jesus and we follow him.

6 September Part 2

6 September Part 2

Instead, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. Romans 13:14 (NRSV)

Read. Romans 13:8-14. This reading begins by saying, “owe no one anything except to love one another”. Karl Barth described love as the “Great Positive Possibility”. So Paul is reminding believers that in all situations we are to love. It is so easy to judge or if not judging to stand passively by as if we were somehow not really involved with parts of life’s experience. As we read this passage we see that from Paul’s perspective passivity or non involvement is unacceptable. We are called to love and work for the good of all that we meet. To put on Christ is to live life under his command and to treat others with a respect that demonstrates the love that God has for all. The passage demands action from us for it encourages us to take stock and see things from a Christian perspective. All the New Testament writers had two things in common. Firstly they were convinced that Jesus Christ had risen bodily from the dead. This gave them the resilience to face even the most severe persecution and vilification. Secondly they were also convinced that Jesus Christ would return in victory and it is from those twin perspectives that Paul is encouraging all believers to live life as a Christian so as to be ready to join with Christ on his return. Paul’s statement, “For salvation is nearer to us now than when we became believers”; Romans 13:11 (NRSV) anticipates this return. It is now two thousand years since Christ ascended to the right hand of the Father which is in human terms an exceedingly long time. The imminent return of Christ is not normally a constant in a Christian’s life. Paul is reminding us that we need to keep this glorious return in mind. Just as Israel was to keep the sense of the Exodus Passover fresh in their worship life and remember God’s gracious act of deliverance, so we too need to keep both the victory and the return of our Saviour fresh in our minds as we live and worship him. Our God is a living God and one day will return to announce that before him, “every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God. (Phil 2:10f)

Prayer. Holy Lord, faithful and true to all the promises you have given, forgive us when we live our lives unaware of your promised return. As we trust you to forgive and restore, help us also live with anticipation that there will come a day when justice and righteousness will abound here on earth as it does in heaven. Help us to love and care for both our world and the people whom we meet. Help us to play our part in witnessing to your grace and power. You are the God of justice, help us to live lives that honour and uphold your justice in every part of our daily experiences. To you be all power and glory, now and forever. Amen

Read. Matthew 18:15-20. Biblical scholars have debated over these few verses of Matthew’s gospel for many years. In the past the view was that Jesus would not have contemplated an institution called the church (ekklēsia). Others, for example T F Torrance see this passage as exactly what Jesus had in mind as he gathered together around him a compact group of witnesses who would be ready to take out the message of his coming and his ministry when he was no longer physically present. If we take this later view, then it makes perfect sense that those who act as witnesses to Jesus Christ would be of one heart and mind; living out a harmony that reflected the ministry of acceptance and forgiveness that was Jesus’ objective as he presented the nature of God in the clearest possible terms. Emmanuel, God with us! The church then needed and needs to have some rigour in its life so that the witness presented to the world is worthy of the message of Jesus. Expelling a member does seem an extreme step yet nevertheless we are only Christians as we rely only on what Jesus has accomplished for us. The binding and loosing referred to in verse 18 is very much linked into the redemption that Jesus has won for us. Jesus had bound the works of evil and so loosed us to live the life of the redeemed. As the redeemed we have only one course of action and that is to love each other, just as Paul instructed us in our Romans passage for today. True love allows us to resolve our differences and our difficulties for it is the law of Jesus that applies not our own thoughts and tastes. The love of Jesus gives us firm minds but soft hearts.

The great joy of this passage is the reminder that when Jesus calls even two or three together he is present among them, to empower and encourage, and also to guide and correct. In his presence we lack nothing.

Prayer. Gracious Lord, we thank you for the fellowship of the church, the body of Christ. As we gather to pray and praise, to listen and learn: teach us to know you better. Teach us to walk in obedience with you. Guide and protect us in the dangers we face. Grant us courage to be true witnesses to the love and forgiveness that Jesus has won for us by his death on the cross. By his resurrection give to us a living hope that leads us on in life with a confidence that casts off fear. This we pray, trusting in the merits of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect. Loving Christ, you bring your people into the community of faith, a community forgiven yet divided. You are in the midst as we seek to be reconciled; give us courage, that we may take the first step; in your reconciling name we pray. Amen.

Lectionary Reading 6 Sept

Lectionary 6 September

And when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left, your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.” Isaiah 30:21 (NRSV)

Read. Exodus 12:1-14. This story is a pivotal in order to recall God’s deliverance from the bondage of oppression and slavery in Egypt to the ultimate destiny of freedom into the Promised Land. The smearing of blood on the surrounds of the doors in order to allow the judgement of God to pass over them might seem to modern thinking a little gruesome. However there is huge symbolism here. The blood of any living creature was regarded as the life force of that creature and as such was a gift from God. The blood might have come from a lamb but the life force which it represented always belonged to God. As Deuteronomy reminds us, 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) The story reminds the people that it is God who is in charge no matter what situation is experienced. It also reminds them that they are to keep this understanding of God in mind and celebrate the Passover deliverance through all their generations. To celebrate in such a way as to recognise that even the present generation were saved by this dramatic action. Yes the deliverance was wonderful but it was always to emphasise that it is God who is the one who delivers help and salvation. The Passover is more than an example of great deliverance it is a permanent reminder that the nation’s destiny rests totally in the hands of God.

Prayer. You lord are the God of our salvation and to you alone do we look for comfort, health and strength. In you alone are all the blessings that we need and so we offer our praise and thanksgiving, trusting in your grace to lead us through this day and this time. Grant to us we pray, the grace and power that we need to fulfil your plan and purpose for us. Enable us to walk in obedience to your will through all the experiences of the days and weeks that lie ahead. Rejoicing in your gifts may we be mindful of the needs of those around us. Help us to be salt and light as we live trusting in your magnificent mercy showered on us through our Lord Jesus Christ; in whose name we pray. Amen

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)

Read. Psalm 149. This psalm begins with a great shout of praise to God who is both creator and king. As such God is not only king over Israel but king over all of creation. This was always in the minds of the psalmists as they expressed their praise and their needs, they approached the one who was the ultimate authority over all things. A thought expressed beautifully by the prophet Isaiah “By myself I have sworn, from my mouth has gone forth in righteousness a word that shall not return: “To me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.” Isaiah 45:23 (NRSV) As the people rejoiced in the praise of God they recognised their total dependence on his goodness and grace. The people also remembered the oppression of the powerful nations that surrounded them and who historically, had oppressed and enslaved them. In their praise, recognising the sovereignty of God it followed naturally that as a nation they had the desire to break free from oppression and vindicate the authority of their king. In the psalmist’s view to oppress the people of God was to usurp the intention and authority of God who is the king. To rebel against God was to bring a just judgement on the leaders of the oppressive nations. The psalmist is supremely confident that with God on their side they will always be victorious. The key to victory was to recognise that God was both creator and king over all and ever called for obedience.

Prayer. Lord God and Saviour of us all, together we offer to you our thanks and praise for all the blessings that you have showered on us. We thank you for health and strength, for protection and guidance and for establishing us in security and peace. Even in danger and distress it is always to you that we look with confidence and hope, knowing that your faithfulness endures for ever. Accept our offering of praise; help us to keep our eyes on you and be open to hear your voice as you guide and direct us. In this time of change we pray that you will bless all those who are discovering new ways to celebrate your goodness and lift high the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. In all circumstances may the whole world rejoice for you continue to uphold all things with the power of your life giving love and mercy. All praise and thanks to you, Lord God and Father of Jesus Christ our Lord . Amen

Collect. Let us pray (that we may realise the freedom God has given us in making us sons and daughters):

God our Father, you redeem us and make us your children in Christ. Look on us, give us true freedom, and bring us to the inheritance you promised. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

30 August Part 2

30 August Part 2

Read. Romans 12:9-21. As we read this passage today we are once again struck by the call to live life at the command of God. Genuine love touches all people equally, for it excludes no one. We notice however that the call to love is at the same time linked to the giftedness that Jesus gives to his followers. Together the followers of Jesus make up a body which acts together in a multitude of ways according to the gifts that are given. Whatever gift a member of the body has been given, that gift is to be exercised with love. Using the gifts that Jesus gives brings a harmony with in the community of believers. The love a believer is to show does not judge and so all people are loveable. Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8 (NRSV) This is no easy task and demands that we love one another without exception. A person’s genuine love hates the evil that is within: An antidote is to hold fast to what is good and allows the good to thrive. It is not an injunction to hate evil in others for the essence of Christianity is that we recognise only Jesus can deal with evil and so we love by relying on what Jesus has done for us as well as those with whom we meet. It reminds me of the American Indian saying that within a person lives two wolves, a good wolf and an evil wolf. The wolf that survives is the one which is fed!

Cutting through all of that is Paul’s reminder that it is God alone who judges, our challenge is to love. Indeed Paul seems to be implying that when we presume to judge we impede the perfect judgement of God. Instead of judging we are to live peaceably with others and in order to do that we need to be at peace with ourselves. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NRSV)

Prayer. Lord, teach us to truly and whole heartedly love our enemies. Help us to fix our gaze on you and so love because of who you are not who we or they are. Let us look on the need not on the deeds others have done. Let us honour you by serving you in ways which demonstrate your extra ordinary love for us. You have touched us with your life changing love, may we live out that new life showing genuine love to all we meet. Amen

Read. Matthew 16:21-28. Matthew sets out this great call to radical discipleship in three sections beginning in ch. 16:13f, where Peter declares that Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah who was destined to bring restoration to the nation of Israel. Matthew then quickly moves on to the rebuke of Peter as Jesus reveals to them that he is going to Jerusalem to die. Scholars are divided about what Jesus knew at this time but it is certain that Jesus knew that in Jerusalem he would enter into conflict with the Chief priest and his cohort. Then the question is, ‘Did Jesus know that he would rise again on the third day?’ We need to struggle with that thought. I know that I will catch the train into the city to morrow, but until I actually arrive I do not really know, it is therefore a strong belief based on experience. In one sense Jesus did “know” that he would rise but in another sense he had to trust that God would act. Trust is important in the whole amazing transaction. It is this trusting that God would act that is important not only for Jesus but for every believer. Then Matthew introduces the challenge of radical discipleship. The cross was not a symbol of anything but death in its biblical setting. Once you set out carrying your cross it could only end in death. Cross bearing means that only the end objective is kept in mind. The end objective of course is to exchange death for life which is a neat way of describing the choice in following Jesus. Life without Jesus leads to death whilst life with Jesus leads on to life in all its fullness and as Matthew is reminding us life with Jesus is worth the suffering. Matthew then has laid out the story: Jesus is the Messiah, the one who is to restore Israel,: he will do this through his death and resurrection; in view of that we are called to follow him regardless of the cost.

Prayer. Truly Lord we believe that you are the answer to a world gone sadly wrong. You are the one on whom we can fully rely. Our hearts are heavy for those who have lost hope, those who have experienced brokenness; those who have no homes, no family and no sense of belonging anywhere. Pour out your Spirit upon us Lord and by your power come to guide and direct our mission and ministry. Lift those who have fallen, restore those who are shattered, bring new hope to those who have lost their sense of direction. May we see a renewal of faith within our congregations and a new love for those who still have not heard or responded to your offer of forgiving love. Lord may we be true disciples of your gospel. Now and always. Amen

Collect. Descending God, your Son faces the cross, and bids his followers to come. Help us to turn from false desires which keep us from following the Saviour in whose name we pray. Amen.

Lectionary Reading 30 Aug.

Lectionary Reading 30 August

Jesus said: If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. Matthew 16:24

Read Exodus 3:1-15. “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. Exodus 3:6 (NRSV)

The story of the burning bush begins the re-telling of the deliverance of Israel from suffering and bondage in Egypt and on into the Promised Land. Moses is well placed to approach Pharaoh having been brought up in Pharaoh’s court. Even so the task to which God has called Moses is clearly daunting and we sense Moses’ apprehension. His reluctance is understandable for he is to be a chosen instrument in God’s great plan of salvation for his people. That the call of God comes from one who is the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob reminds us that this is a God who is present through all generations. As the scripture says, “I am the God of your father”, the God of your ancestors who has always been with you and more importantly will always be with you. Jesus refers to this verse when in debate with the Sadducees to remind them that God is the God of the living. God offers a relationship that lasts through death and into eternity for God is the giver of life. This is the God whose love never ends. As one of the recent creeds of the United Church in Canada says, “In life, in death, in life beyond death, God is with us”. Moses was gripped by this ongoing power. Here is the awesome God who was always faithful to the promises that were made. Moses would need that assurance again and again as he led the people on their journey to the Promised Land. As we read the passage today we are reminded of the compassion of God to rescue the people. We are also reminded that God can sometimes call the most unlikely people to be in leadership. Moses was a humble shepherd, in exile, and a murderer. However God’s hand had been with him from the moment he was born. As Acts records. “At this time Moses was born, and he was beautiful before God. For three months he was brought up in his father’s house;” Acts 7:20 (NRSV) The faithful God uses all kinds of people to fulfil the mission.

Prayer. Faithful God we humbly bow before you in prayer, recognising again and again all that you have done for us. We thank you Lord, that you gave your Son, Jesus Christ to be the light of the world, and in him you have revealed to us your glory and the wonder of your saving love. We thank you that you know our situations and are always ready to reach out with mercy and grace: For this we give you heartfelt thanks. Help us to love you even as you have deeply loved us; strengthen us for the service of your kingdom; and grant that the light of Jesus Christ might shine both in and through us, that people everywhere may be drawn to him who as Saviour and Lord of all. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen

Read. Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45. The psalm begins with a section of praise as the psalmist recalls all the blessings that God has showered on the people, Then the next section we are reading goes on to recount again the journey out of Egypt and into the Promised Land led by Moses. Then the psalm ends by reminding the worshippers that all the deeds of God, wonderful as they are should lead to an obedient people who trust God in all things. “that they might keep his statutes and observe his laws. Praise the LORD! Psalm 105:45 (NRSV) The psalm reminds us that it is important to refresh our minds with the stories of God’s great blessing. Again and again in scripture we are encouraged to meditate on God’s word and hold in our minds all that God has done. As we recall the stories they remind us that God’s blessing touches the reality of life, God leads, God heals, God provides, God’s blessings are actional in our everyday lives. As this psalm emphasises, God’s action towards us is always with the view that we would stay in close fellowship with God and be obedient. God is not there simply to be a rescuer when we get into strife: No, God wants us to trust him enough that we will live our lives according to his commands and principles. Obedience is linked to knowing what is in God’s word.“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105 (NRSV) It is God’s word that keeps our feet from slipping and gives us confidence to face the future with hope. In the psalm for today the psalmist recounts the past in order to move forward into a future knowing that the faithfulness of God will always be there to rely on.

Prayer. Strong and ever powerful God we come to you confessing that often we much prefer to go own way. We like to be independent for we feel we know the right way for us. Lord, forgive us and by your grace, make us captive to your love and in perfect trust, may we rest in you. May we learn from you to walk in obedience and so find true peace and an ongoing joy which transcends all earthly circumstances because that peace is vested in you. Grant us Lord a new insight into your love for us and a new will to place our lives at your disposal. In Jesus name we pray. Amen

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

23 August Part 2

23 August Part 2

Read Romans 12:1-8. This is an easy and familiar passage to read, but to respond so as to do it justice is hard. To renew the mind is to rethink in Jesus’ way and at Jesus’ direction. This re-thinking then is to result in bodily action which is honouring God and also honourable. The Christian life is not something conducted only in the mind but in word and deed, thought and action. Every part of us, our whole being is to be subjected to the command and guidance of Jesus. To fulfil this command will take a close relationship with him, remembering that Jesus is the Lord and he alone is in charge. Theologians tell us that “spiritual worship” is perhaps better described as rational or logical worship. Some translate it as rational service reminding us that it is body, mind and spirit which are united fully in the worship and service of God. We cannot hope to achieve this without being constant in prayer, always keeping before us Jesus and his relationship with each of us. This is a daily task for the pressure to conform to the norms of the society in which we live are constantly on us. As Jesus reminds us, disciples live their lives at odds with the world. (John 17:16). So the constant challenge is not to conform to the ways of the world but always be immersed in all that is approved by God.

We are presented with an impossible task except through the grace and the gifting of God. This is a transformation which changes us at our very core. I am reminded of a phrase taken from the prayer in the Methodist Covenant Service, “I am no longer my own but yours. Put me to what you will, rank me with whom you will; put me to doing, put me to suffering; let me be employed for you, or laid aside for you,..” (from the Methodist Service Book”)

This radical change is made possible only because of the new life that Jesus gives to each believer. He has rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son, Colossians 1:13 (NRSV) Paul then goes on to say that believers need to use their new found status to support the unity that Jesus brings by his reconciling grace. In other words at least part of our rational service is to build one another up in love. As we serve God we also serve each other and so God is glorified.

Prayer. Lord, your way is perfect and your plan for us is without fault. Help us, day by day to trust in your goodness and grace. May we let our lives rest fully in your hands; and find great comfort in the security of your love. As you guide our steps and protect our way, may we in turn be ready to serve you, to use our energy not in self-protection but in willing service. You are our strength and stay, ever keep our eyes on the love and grace you give to us. So may we possess quiet and contented hearts and minds, dedicated to your honour and glory. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Read Matthew 16:13-20. But who do you say that I am?

This is an important disclosure within the gospel story. Jesus is presented by Matthew as the Messiah. This would have been a deeply moving revelation for the disciples to hear. We have become so used the thinking of Jesus as Messiah (Christ) that the words have less impact that they would have had for the disciples on that day. God’s chosen one standing among us! We come to this understanding only through the insight of the Holy Spirit. It is not that we cannot have the knowledge of Jesus as Messiah without the Holy Spirit, but we cannot begin to understand what that really means without the Holy Spirit. To know Jesus as Messiah had a profound impact on how we live life and on how we view ourselves. With Jesus as Messiah there is nothing in life or death that need make us afraid for Messiah ushers in the new creation and the fulfilment of ancient promises for the people of God!. Despite Matthew’s amazing disclosure the passage confronts us with a stark reality for it poses the question, “Who do you say that I am?”. In the end with all our knowledge and understanding the question remains, “Who is Jesus for us?” Is he a name in a book or is he the living Saviour who sets us free to follow and obey him?

Prayer. Grant us O Lord the faith that trusts not in signs and wonders but in your love and faithfulness towards us. Grant us that measure of faith as will sustain us each day of our lives. Grant us such wisdom and insight as we will need, to fully serve you to the very best of our ability. Save us from all self seeking; keep us at all times in your grace, may our strength be drawn from you, and may our lives be readied for your perfect service. May we have a true appreciation of your great love for us and so find security in the hand you hold out for us. Lord may we take your hand and walk each day with you. Grant us a closer walk and the more fervent heart for you. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen

Collect. Jesus, Messiah of God, you invite our faith; grant us the grace to trust you as Peter did, and in our day to proclaim you Son of the Living God. Amen.

Lectionary 23 August

Lectionary Reading 23 August

Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Psm 124 : 8

Read Exodus 1:8-2:10. A new king arose who did not know Joseph. In this reading we move on from the Joseph saga to the Moses saga and to a whole new chapter in the life of the nation of Israel. Under Joseph’s guidance the Israelites had been rescued; they had not simply survived but had flourished. Now with the passing of time they had become a threat within the nation of Egypt. As we can see from verse 14 the oppression by the Egyptians made life “bitter” for the Israelites. Like any people who are oppressed they struggled to survive. As the mothers and midwives try to save the male children we read of the survival of Moses: His Hebrew name of Mosheh means drawn up or rescued. It is not without some irony that the very one who rescues Moses is Pharaoh’s daughter and so Moses after being suckled by his mother is brought up in the court of Pharaoh. The transition from leader Joseph to leader Moses has been established. It is an exciting story well loved by Sunday School teachers for there is so much of interest in this transition. However above all the writer wants us to understand that overseeing all of this is the great promise of God to bring his people into the security and safety of the Promised Land. At the centre of this is the call of Moses to be God’s chosen servant. Once more the nation of Israel is facing disaster and once more, true to his promise God’s hand is ready to protect and guide the people safely out of trouble. God does this not simply for the sake of the people but in order to be true to his word of promise. As such while this is an important story for the Israelites it is also a story of great assurance for all of God’s people through every age. God is always faithful and true to his promise to bless and save. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:21-23 (NRSV)

Prayer. Almighty God, we thank and praise you that your promises are everlasting and your mercy towards us endures forever. The whole creation shouts out your praise for you have done all things well and to you belongs all glory and honour. There is none like you O Lord, boundless in love and rich in mercy. Accept our thanks and praise for all that you have done to rescue us from the stain of sin and despite all our faults you have set us free through Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit. One God for ever and ever. Amen

Read Psalm 124. This psalm used in worship, was meant to be repeated after the leader and with some enthusiasm. It describes the joy of personal and national deliverance. The opening phrase sets up the scene; If it had not been the Lord who was on our side —let Israel now say— if it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when our enemies attacked us, Psalm 124:1-2 (NRSV)

As you read the psalm the theme of exuberance at what God has done comes clearly through. Many psalms begin with lament or maybe with a question because of sorrows or reversals in life. This psalm grasps the understanding that God is on our side and God has acted on our behalf. Not only has God acted he has also delivered. In the story of Moses that we read the people of Israel had a long history facing troubled times, but every time God had delivered them, despite the fact that their troubles were often of their own making. When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son. The more I called them, the more they went from me;. Hosea 11:1-2 (NRSV)

When folk find a disaster has been averted they commonly describe it as “Being lucky”. The Psalmist is under no illusions; he recognises quite clearly that luck plays no part in his life experience. No, deliverance has only one origin and that is the Lord God Almighty. With praise on his lips he can rejoice, filled with the confidence that God, the God of the whole nation is clearly and 100% on their side. Filled with such knowledge there is no hesitation in saying, “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth”. Psalm 124:8 (NRSV)

Prayer. Gracious Lord, even before the day begins you know what lies before us, and as evening falls again it is only in you we would trust, to keep us secure through the night. As you know the way ahead we ask you to guide us along safe pathways. Because you are the Alpha and the Omega we look to you for the wisdom we will need to make right decisions in all our tasks. As we walk close to you, help us to be a good witness to your mercy and grace. In every deed of service may we honour you alone; through our daily living help us lift high the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord, in whose name we pray. Amen

Collect. O Father, fount of all wisdom, in the humble witness of the apostle Peter you have shown the foundation of our faith. Give to all the light of your Spirit, that, recognising in Jesus of Nazareth the Son of the living God, they may become living stones for the building up of your holy Church. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

16 August Part 2

Lectionary Reading 16 August Part 2

Read. Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32 Paul’s use of ancient argument can make this a difficult reading to understand. Put simply Paul asks a question and then gives an answer to emphasis his teaching point. So right up front he asks, “Have the Jewish people been rejected”? And the answer is “well I am a Jew and I have been saved so the answer to the question is an emphatic no!” Then Paul goes on to ask, “Have they offended God enough to keep them away from their promised inheritance”, and again his answer is “No”. However, their hesitation has provided the opportunity for the Gentiles to also come into the salvation of God. The grace of God has made provision for all people to have the opportunity to accept the invitation to be reconciled to God. God never goes back on his promises and once he has called a person into forgiveness he will never revoke that forgiving call. That does not mean that a person must accept God’s forgiving love. The other aspect of the readings is that we are all equally in need of forgiveness because we have been locked into a pattern of disobedience. Disobedience quickly becomes habitual, and disobedience is found in each one of us. Yet God in his mercy has called us from disobedience and by an act of grace, set us free so that we can choose to obey him. No wonder that Paul finishes his discourse with a great exclamation of praise and thanksgiving; reminding us that we all benefit from God’s wonderful forgiving grace. For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever. Amen. Romans 11:36 (NRSV)

Prayer. “O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is your name in all the earth”. Holy Lord, forever to be honoured, we give you all thanks and praise for all the blessings that have come to us through Jesus Christ our Saviour. We thank you that we are made in your image and so can accept your gracious invitation to be in close fellowship with you through your Son. Great and wonderful are your works, drawing the whole of your creation back in to harmony with you through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ who has conquered sin and death. As we lift our prayers to you, may we with all your creatures give you true honour and thanks. Keep us steadfast in faith and service, being bearers of the good news that Jesus reins with you and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen

Read. Matthew 15:[10-20] 21-28 There are many facets to this passage of scripture. In the section prior to this reading Jesus has been teaching about the way the tradition of the elders has been corrupted, which then leads into a discussion about clean and unclean greatly upseting the Pharisees. Then a Canaanite woman a Gentile, from a Jewish perspective an unclean person, recognises who Jesus is by addressing him as “Son of David”, this signals more than just a title particularly to the Pharisees who would be listening. The Son of David referred to the one who was to come, the Messiah: this is the one who would come to bring restoration to Israel and usher in all the promises of God. Those present who are Israelites do not as yet see Jesus as this promised one. Having recognised the power and authority in Jesus the woman has a constant trust in him. Even though Jesus initially seems inclined to turn her away, she recognises that he will indeed hear her request and deliver what she needs. She does not direct Jesus by specifying her need; she simply and persistently calls out for “mercy”. One of the important lessons we need to learn is that God is not at our beck and call. He is sovereign and has a right to say yes or no to our requests. He can do this without impinging on his integrity because he is perfect in his judgement and justice. The room for error is always on our side and we have no right to question God’s decisions. Yet as this passage reminds us, persistent trust will be heard. Jesus does meet her need and not only shows her mercy but also commends her for her faith and trust in him. Though the Gentile woman had great needs because of her daughter Matthew makes it clear that her hope and attention is on Jesus alone, she has recognised that in him is perfect healing and a perfect fulfilment of her needs. Jesus did and does have mercy.

Prayer. Blessed Saviour, you call us to trust in you alone. Forgive us Lord that so often our needs prevent us from seeing who you truly are: You lived a human life and faced its joys and sorrows help us to draw our strength from the knowledge that you have overcome the world. May we find in you the power to daily step out on the journey of life, filled with the assurance of your love and salvation. Like you, keep us in the faith in joy and in sorrow, trusting that in all circumstances God is working for our good. “Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Luke 12:32 (NRSV). Amen

Collect. Jesus, servant of the Lord, faced by the faith of an outsider, you cannot refuse the help she needs; save us from restricting our aid to those who are like us; lead us to put our faith into action now and for evermore. Amen.

Lectionary 16 August

Lectionary Reading 16 August

Read. Genesis 45:1-15

The whole story of Joseph reminds us that God can use even extreme circumstances in life if we will trust him. However before we think about the theological issues we need to recognise the emotion that would have been present as Joseph revealed himself to his brothers. There would have been heightened emotion for Joseph but that would have paled into insignificance when compared to the guilt of his brothers. That deeply emotional experience only emphasises the providential care of God in every situation. Both Joseph and his brothers all have to endure change which is painful. Joseph has been forced to live through many adversities. It is through these adversities that Joseph has been both sustained as well as shaped by God. No longer is he a self centred favourite. He has become a responsible and caring leader who is prepared to put his thoughts and feelings on hold in order to be reconciled with his brothers. To put aside your own needs and emotions for the good of others is a sign of godly maturity. The presence of Joseph confronts the brothers with the shame of their cruel and selfish actions against a younger brother whom they should have had the maturity to help guide and correct in love. Guilt, regret, forgiveness and celebration are mingled together in a very human story of triumph, but it is a triumph woven by God’s grace. Through the pain of life God has used them all to bring the first steps of salvation to the nation of Israel. The story reminds us that even those who we feel have done us wrong can be forgiven and accepted under the guiding hand of God. It also reminds us that nothing can prevent God’s will coming to fulfilment. Life can be hard but God’s plans will always prevail. I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18 (NRSV)

Prayer. Most gracious Lord, you are sovereign in every situation. In good times and in hard times your hand is always leading and guiding. Help us in all situations to look always to you and seek always to serve you. Teach us at all times to rely on you, having full confidence in your providential care. Grant that we may always walk with humility before you, and by our actions be forgiving and loving in every circumstance. Enable us by your Spirit to honour your name, doing all we can to serve you well as we rely only on your guidance and strength. This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Read. Psalm 133. The picture of oil running down onto your collar is perhaps not an image that would fill us with delight. However it was an image that the people of Israel would recognise as symbolic of the great blessing of God. Though being anointed with oil is not a familiar sign for us nevertheless we would quickly recognise how wonderful it is when we are living in harmony with our family and friends. Conversely we recognise how debilitating it is when we are at odds with a family member or a friend. We are made to live together in harmony: the only sure way that we can achieve this harmony is by recognising that God is the ultimate authority in all things. We have to freely admit that Jesus is Lord and allow him to be in charge! When we submit to the lordship of Jesus Christ we can be inwardly at peace and so, resting on him alone we are enabled to be at peace with one another. Life in all its fullness was the promise of Jesus when we rely on him in all things. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. John 10:10 (NRSV)

Prayer. Gracious Lord, we live in unsettled times and the future is more than ever a mystery. Everything seems to be changing and nothing seems quite the same. The mystery makes us long to look back, back to things as they used to be. In these present times we realise how little we have relied on your strength for we have felt self sufficient. The insecurities of the moment have confronted us with the reality of our need of your guidance and grace. Forgive us Lord as we realise our failure to truly trust. Renew in us the powerful peace of your presence and indeed, trusting in you alone may we face the future with the confidence that you are always with us and always provide what is needed. This we ask through Jesus Lord and Saviour. Amen

Collect. Let us pray (that all races and creeds may find in Christ the fulfilment of their longings):

Almighty God, who in the incarnation of your eternal Word revealed the source and perfection of all true religion: grant us so fully to manifest Christ in our lives that people of all races and creeds may be drawn to him who is their whole salvation, our Saviour Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.