Lectionary notes

5 July Part 2

Lectionary Reading 5 July part 2

Read. Romans 7:15-25 Paul describes the struggle that every Christian has to deal with, the struggle to do only what is right before God. This is an impossible task. The law that gives us the code to live a godly life cannot be accused of being evil, yet it is this very same law that reveals our brokenness. The law exposes us to idolatry for it forces us to take our eye off God and place it on those things we should or should not do. In so doing idolatry slips in. If we keep the law we become proud, when we break the law we pretend either there is a reasonable excuse for the failure, or we deny the failure all together. When that happens we approach confession with the thought that we don’t have much to confess this week. It is at that point we are at our most sinful for the Christian life demands a total reliance on God, trusting in all that Jesus has accomplished for us on the cross. To even assume we do not need the forgiving power of Jesus is to totally disrespect God. Paul then is reminding each Christian that for as long as we live we will be dependent on the completed sacrifice of Jesus Christ. To use that famous quote from Luther, “Saved and yet a sinner!” Despite the truth of that we can still live rejoicing because Jesus unendingly holds out for us the gift of being eternally in a righteous relationship with God: our response is to simply trust in him to do it for us. Conflicted about our Christian walk we might be, but by trusting Jesus we will always be secure in our relationship with God.

Prayer. Gracious Lord, we know that without you we are lost, but in your care we have hope not only for today but for eternity. We give you thanks and praise that in Jesus Christ all things are possible and through him we have a righteousness we did not earn and did not deserve. In your great love for all people by your grace you have offered to us the gift of eternal life forever with you. On this day we humbly accept this amazing offer of life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Read Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30. As we read these few verses they are a source of great comfort, a reminder that Jesus’ yoke is a yoke that is not heavy to bear. Yet when we take the reading as a whole perhaps the key to help us understand is in the last phrase of verse 19 ‘ Wisdom is vindicated by her deeds.’ The reading begins with the caution to listen to what Jesus is teaching, in joyful times you did not dance, and in sadness you did not mourn: it is a description of people who did not hear or who on hearing chose not to respond to Jesus’ teaching. Jesus brought a message of good news, particularly to those in need. For those who heard and responded the reward was a time of rest. It was to have rest that was the ultimate result of being under the covenant of God. Just as rest marked the end of the creation story, so rest was the end objective of those who obediently followed God in obedience. To take on Jesus’ yoke was to hear all that Jesus taught and upon hearing to then obey. “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. John 14:15 (NRSV) In obedience we stay close to Jesus and in Jesus we have both peace with God and peace within our other relationships. In obedience we trust Jesus for everything. When we do not trust Jesus we then have to work at securing for ourselves the peace and harmony we seek. Without Jesus we cannot achieve this. Apparently a shark can never come to rest for the moment it stops swimming in begins to sink, so while other fish may hover in one spot for a time a shark must always be on the move. We are like the shark when we fail to trust Jesus for everything, always having to be on the go, never quite being satisfied with what we have achieved: always wondering if we have done enough, or done it right. When we choose to trust in Jesus that is true wisdom, for trusting in Jesus lets us know that we can be at rest for he has done it all.

Prayer. Almighty and everlasting God, in your mercy we lift our hands in prayer to you. Grant us wisdom that we may willingly choose to follow our Saviour Christ, taking his yoke and in all our works honouring him alone. Give to us a steadfast heart that in serving others we may serve him. May the service we give be empowered by your love for all people, and to you be all honour and praise; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect. Almighty God, who sent your Holy Spirit to be the life and light of your church: open our hearts to the riches of his grace, that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit in love and joy and peace: though Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen (Methodist Service Book)

Lectionary Reading 5 July

Lectionary Reading 5 July

Read. Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67. As we read this passage we can realise how far removed we are from the culture of the ancient world. Although I have friends whose marriages were successfully arranged by their families, in western culture this forming of a marriage relationship would be unusual. As we read the story perhaps it is not the marriage arrangement that is upper most in the writers mind. The major emphasis in the story is that Isaac should not marry a partner from a foreign tribe. Only a true descendant of Abraham’s family line will make a suitable wife for Abraham’s son and heir. The story emphasises that it is the Lord’s angel who will direct both the servant and the outcome of the quest for a wife. In this way the nucleus of God’s covenant family will be true descendants of Abraham. As the story unfolds it is apparent that everything falls into place as Abraham wished but also as the Lord directed. In its setting this is the beginning of the family which God promised to Abraham through the covenant made to Abraham in Genesis chapter 15. Thus the story tells us that God is being faithful to the promise that was made to grant to Abraham a dynasty that would serve God and as well would be a blessing to all the nations on the earth. This is the beginning of that great quest. As such it is a reminder to everyone that God is always true to the promises that are made which deal with humanity.

Prayer. Almighty God, all things are in your hands and nothing that you have planned will fail. Help us to put our whole trust in you, so that following in your way we may see at work the wonders that you perform. Guide our steps along life’s journey so that we may accomplish your plan and purpose for us, working in us all that will honour your name and give you praise and glory. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Read Psalm 45:10-17

This psalm is posed as a soliloquy describing a wedding with its finery and its romanticism. Woven into the description are the obligations and the future opportunities that will flow from this union. The bride is beautifully presented and the finery with which she is adorned it fully described. In her glory she is led to the king with much ceremony and there is a sense of anticipation as to what this union will achieve. This union will mean a complete new beginning for the bride as she leaves her family and familiar friends and is exclusively faithful to the king who is to become her lord. Perhaps for us the language is a little extreme but then we have to remember that this is a psalm and not simply a description of a royal society wedding. Here the bride is Israel and her exclusive lord is to be the God of covenant and promise. The psalmist has linked the beauty of the nation with the wonderful future that this wedding union will produce. Future generations will honour and respect the nation and surrounding tribes will be obligated and so will bring their gifts. It is an exciting and fulfilling future that the psalmist describes, a future filled with promise. The one key response that is required is that Israel will remain faithful to the king who is her lord.

Prayer. Gracious Lord, you created us to live in families and love and cherish each member, help us to be true to our loved ones, in all ways honouring them. We pray for families around the world, that they may be places of security and love. May children be nurtured and guided to maturity, ready to take their place as members of their communities. Grant that parents may respect and honour each other and in all situations be a true reflection of the love you have for each person. You Lord are the Father of us all, and to you we give all thanks and praise. We thank you for the companions along the way who have loved and supported us: may we look always to you for health and strength and for daily bread, finding in you the very essence of life both now and forever. This we pray through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect. Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ has taught us that what we do for the least of your children we do also for him. Give us the will to serve others as he was servant of all, who gave up his life and died for us’ but lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

28 June Part 2

Lectionary Reading 28 June Pt 2

Reading. Romans 6: 12-23 The Philosopher Rousseau said, “Man is born free and everywhere he is in chains” There are many ways in which we can be bound: We live in an age controlled by the tyranny of the urgent. Everyone faces these tensions but Paul here in Romans is not addressing everyone but only believers, “to the saints in Rome” is his opening sentence. The context of his message reminds all Christians that Christianity is a relational life lived to honour God. “You must make every part of your body serve God”. Reminding us that how we live is equally as important as what we believe, in fact how we live demonstrates what we believe. GK Chesterton wisely said, “Man alone is the only wild animal”. An animal lives by instinct, but humanity lives by making choices, often choosing to live in ways which are clearly contrary to our best interests or the interests of others. Showing irresponsible drivers the consequences of accidents does not change driving habits. Why? Simply because we often believe it won’t happen to me. Paul reminds us that the way we choose to live is important; we need to live for God. He then goes on to remind us that Jesus has won for us a freedom to choose. He doesn’t say that when you become a Christian everything is easy, he says when you become a Christian you have to start making choices. Before we choose we often ask, “What’s in it for me?” And this is what he says. v23 “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”. The word for wages describes a soldier’s rations/ provision. What he means is if you have lived a life to please yourself you have earned the provision that affords. He adds that death is all that can be received. However, if you live a life trying to please God, even though as Paul admits it may not be perfect, God in his love gives us eternal life. Due to Jesus Christ it is an inheritance which cannot be taken away. Irenaeus said, “The Christian’s life is like Gold, it may fall in the mud but though soiled on the outside it is still pure within”: A wash will restore it. It is that great blessing which frees us to keep our eyes on Jesus and in that freedom to follow him in obedience.

Prayer. Light of the world, with thankful hearts we give you praise you for life and health, for love and friendship and for the companionship that your abiding presence brings. We thank you for the richness of your creation, with its variety, vitality and its colour. We thank you for the uniqueness of each person and for the gifts that allow us to serve you. Above all we thank you for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ who lived our life and experienced our death that we might live eternally with you. As the fullness of your grace surrounds us may we never cease to honour you in daily living. May your light which dispels the darkness fill our very being with the joy of your salvation, and may our days be lived in the perfect freedom of your service now and forever. Amen.

Reading. Matthew 10:40-42. In this short passage Jesus is reminding his hearers that he has always been the one sent to accomplish the Father’s will. He came to conduct his earthly ministry with a defined plan and purpose. Over the Easter readings we noted that he was crucified as King, and though he said that his kingdom was not from this world, yet the idea of kingship becomes a dominant theme particularly in the forty days prior to his ascension. (Acts 1:3) The King has a kingdom and in the future this kingdom now commenced will be fully revealed. This passage reminds us that in this future kingdom there will be consequences linked to our actions as we go through this earthly life. The coming kingdom will be a kingdom of perfect justice and as such how we live in this life will be reflected in the next. In the fellowship of Jesus there are people who exercise special gifts and have considerable authority there will also be people whose gifting is simply to serve the vulnerable. All have a place. This reading reminds us that whatever gifting we have, all are able to show hospitality and love to every person wether of high or low status. In doing so each will receive a reward; however no Christian serves for a reward but as a response to the love of God, as John says, “ In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins”. 1 John 4:10 (NRSV) By that loving act in God’s kingdom all can play a part and in so doing will be lovingly serving God. To welcome someone is to accept them as they are not putting any conditions on what they must do or how they must change in order to be welcomed: It is a genuine welcome with no strings attached. This welcome reflects the gracious acceptance that God the Father gives to everyone who turns to Christ and lives to honour him alone.

“Then the king will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, …. Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food,… And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.‘” Matthew 25:34-40 (NRSV)

Prayer. God of all hope, The bringer of comfort and the bearer of Good News; Open the eyes of our faith, a faith that comes from you alone, help us to see you at work in our world and give us the courage to join you in serving all who are in need. Forgive us when we have failed to see your actions or we are deaf to your call to serve and have turned away from those in need. Lord you have called us as disciples to bear one-another’s burdens and to be mindful of their needs. Help us to share and to serve in ways that honour your name. Help us to look beyond ourselves, looking forward to the new creation that you are putting into place. Renew and refresh us; Restore in us the image of your son, that by Christ-like endeavour we may be true heralds of your coming kingdom. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect. Your loving care extends to everything, O God; help us to care as you do, trusting in the strength of your Holy Spirit, and the power of the name of Jesus, in which name we pray. Amen.(Uniting in Worship)

Lectionary Reading 28 June

Lectionary Reading 28 June

Reading Genesis 22:1-18 There have been some horrible descriptions of this ancient biblical story but before emotion runs away with reality, let’s get the facts straight. Abraham is well over a hundred years old and Isaac is a youth strong enough to carry a donkey’s load of firewood on the way up the mountain. If it was purely a test of strength Isaac would surpass Abraham with ease. So although this is beyond our normal life experience perhaps we can think of the story from a different angle. Abraham has been promised a dynasty more numerous that the stars in the sky (Genesis 15) yet Sarah had only produced a son in her old age. Isaac was literally a son of promise and yet in this passage we read that God calls Abraham to literally give his son back to God as a sacrifice. So with all its drama it is an ultimate test of loyalty and trust. It is a test not only of Abraham but of Isaac also for had Isaac not trusted his father he could have easily overpowered him. Running through the story is the theme that God will provide the sacrifice and after Abraham has demonstrated his obedience the sacrifice is indeed provided. Isaac also demonstrated his obedience and trust in his father Abraham and so mutual trust before God is shown. It is then that the covenant with God is reaffirmed. This covenant formed the basis for God’s dealings with his people Israel. Abraham and Isaac had to trust God for all that lay ahead. It was God’s action that would fulfil the promises that had been made. As a patriarchal story embedded in history it continues to powerfully remind all of God’s people that the demand for loyalty and trust is both absolute and radical. From the beginning the command to have “no other gods but me” was central to the relationship God had with his people. It is a command that has not been altered.

Prayer. From generation to generation, you Lord have been faithful to all those who trust you. In all creation there is none like you, for you are a faithful God who fully provides for all of your children. Help us more and more to place our whole reliance on you. Grant that we always look to you for guidance and grace, trusting in your way alone. Each new day brings an abundance of your blessing into our lives; we look to you for health and strength and the wisdom to trust in you in each fresh experience that life presents. May your presence give us the courage to trust you for each new step along the way. To you be all glory and praise now and forever as we rejoice in the merits of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Reading Psalm 13. Years ago there was a song based on psalm 13. All I can remember of that song is a mere echo, I know it is there in memory but I can’t quite grasp either the tune or the lyrics. It is just hauntingly in the back ground. This psalm has something of that quality about it. The psalmists knew that God was Lord of all and that Israel were the chosen people. Somehow things were going wrong; life was not delivering what the psalmist expected. The victory that God promised was tantalisingly just out of reach and the psalm echoes a mournful lament. Still the psalmist does not lose heart, despite all the disappointments and the failures the one clear thing is that God is faithful and always offers steadfast love: despite everything God can still be trusted. In the final stanza the psalmist determines to continue to trust that the Lord will deliver all that has been promised, despite all that has been experienced the psalmist can still face the future with confident hope. This psalm was written over three thousand years ago yet the sentiment remains true; even though life may provide multiple setbacks, failures and disappointments it is still the Lord who can be relied on to see each of us through to a life of blessing. With the psalmist we too need to turn to the Lord, trusting with confident hope.

Prayer. Most gracious God, a very present help in times of trouble, and the source of strength in every trial: Forgive us that we often turn away from your direction and trust in our own false gods. Grant to us the wisdom of your Holy Spirit, that guided by that light we may learn to place our trust fully in you. Help us to look to the future with hope, knowing your plan and purpose for all of your people is truly glorious. Lift our spirits and strengthen our resolve to love what you love and to do justice in all situations. Relying only on your power, help us to work for a society where all find mercy and justice; where all live together joined by the bonds of love, a society ordered by your way alone. For this we pray through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect. O God, the strength of those who hope in you: be present and hear our prayers; and because of the weakness of our mortal nature we can do nothing good without you, give us the help of your grace, so that, in keeping your commandments, we may please you in will and deed; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (Uniting in Worship)

21 June part 2

Lectionary Reading 21 June Pt 2

Reading. Romans 6:1-11 It is through being immersed in the death of Jesus Christ that a Christian has life. Just as the church has no life within itself without Jesus Christ neither does a Christian.. Therefore the church in order to exist must live out the unadorned life of Christ, always working to present in this present life the reality of the life to come: The same obligation falls on every Christian. The reason for this is not hard to discover. The followers of Jesus did not expect him to return to life again after the crucifixion. So the emphasis quickly turned to what the cross had achieved. The act of death was less important than the result. Through the cross new life came, old things had passed away, new things had come. This was the emphasis. It was not a mistake or a wasted death but a wonderful opportunity created by God. Importantly life and how it was viewed in the future could never be the same again. In our passage Paul is reminding all baptised Christians that it is our baptism which is the visible link for us with the death and resurrection of Christ. In that dying and rising we are made new for in baptism we are linked to the risen, redeeming Jesus. Therefore we are to lift up our heads, recognising that the past has been dealt with and we look to walk into the future with renewed hope and expectancy. The death he died, he died to sin, once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. Romans 6:10-11 (NRSV) It is this wonderful news that draws us on and allows us to live a life always giving thanks for all that Jesus Christ has done.

Prayer. Holy and life giving God, you have done all things well and by your great goodness Jesus Christ our Saviour lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit. Not only that but by your great mercy you have granted to all who are in Christ the privilege to share with him the glory of your grace. How amazing that is, our hearts rejoice in your goodness and grace. Humbly we offer our thanks and praise, for we know we come not trusting in any merits of our own but trusting only in the merits of your dear Son. To you Lord be all thanks and praise now and forever Amen

Reading. Matthew 10:24-39. This passage about relationships has at its centre this verse, Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. Matthew 10:29 (NRSV) It reminds us that we are valuable to God. God cares about us and about what we do. To accept that God cares about us tells us again that we are of value. In our increasingly impersonal world it is easy to begin to think that we don’t count. When you deal with a computer for example if you get one tiny thing wrong it just flicks you off with an error message and then decides it’s time to “update”. This usually happens when you are in a tearing hurry and the end result is more tension and frustration, leaving you wondering why you bother. Our God comes from the other angle with the message, despite the mistakes, you are loved and of value. Why this is so is because of God’s nature but also because God can do something about us when we make mistakes. God has the power and the authority to bring change. God does not change the circumstances, but with love, God changes us. It is God who loves first because of all that Jesus has done on our behalf. In his love God declares to us that we are valuable in his estimation. We then can respond. We love because he first loved us. In loving God we can begin to love ourselves and it is as we come to terms with ourselves that we are in a better place to love those around us. This is not always easy for living and loving in God’s way can sometimes put us at odds with those around us. As Jesus said sometimes living in God’s way can bring division but when for us love is the key then the approach to others is always with love and respect. In all circumstances we are to recognise our worth before God and live out a life of love.

Prayer. In a world filled with suffering I reach out to you Lord God, not for my own needs alone but for all those who face such great danger, from disease, prejudice and tyranny. I call out to you and long for answers for I know that within me is only emptiness and a longing to be able to amend what is wrong. So Lord I look to you with an expectant heart and mind, inform me of your will that I may walk in your way. Refresh my longing for you and fill me with your Holy Spirit, grant that I may be a voice which cries out to you for justice and peace; and in your peace let me serve you by serving others. This I ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect. Your loving care extends to everything, O God; help us to care as you do, trusting in the strength of your Holy Spirit, and the power of the name of Jesus, in which name we pray. Amen.

Lectionary Reading 21 June

Lectionary Reading 21 June

Reading. Genesis 21:8-21. There are many scripture passages when, if we only apply human wisdom are difficult to understand, and this must certainly be one of them. Ishmael and his mother are ejected from the security of the camp and banished into the wilderness. Humanly speaking it seems both harsh and uncaring. However as with all passages we have to both look a little deeper but also aim to understand what the writer is trying to say about the action of the Lord. Ishmael is not the son of the promise that the Lord had made with Abraham: He and his mother are separated from Abraham and by the provision of the Lord are cared for as a separate clan. Ishmael and Isaac will not grow up together. Ishmael was the son that Abraham and Sarah had contrived to produce in order to help the Lord fulfil the promise made to Abraham, that his offspring would be plentiful. This attempt to pre-empt the fulfilment of the promise has lead to this seemingly vindictive act. The true nature of the Lord is still demonstrated and his compassion and providential care both for Ishmael and Hagar is recorded. Ishmael is not the son of promise but is still a child of God and more importantly a son of Abraham and as such the Lord will care for him. Chapter twenty Five of Genesis brings Ishmael and Isaac back together again as they lay Abraham to rest at Mamre. The reading for today we reminds us of several things. The Lord needs no help in order to fulfil the promises that are made. Both Abraham and Sarah were called to trust that the promise of a son would come to pass. Trying to help God out without his clear direction does not promote the plans or purpose of the Lord and as this story shows can lead to hard decisions having to be made. Despite what we might think of the story, the compassion and care of the Lord for all those concerned is evident. In all circumstances we can rely on our God to act with love and justice.

Prayer. Gracious Lord, our word reminds us that you rescue the humble and teach them what is right, now as we read your word and lift our hands and hearts in prayer, guide us as we call out to you. Give to us the wisdom and insight we need in order to understand what you are teaching us as we read. Help us to draw strength to live according to your will. May we walk in obedience to you and not presume on your forgiving grace. In all places help us to live as your children and so bring honour and glory to you. Help us to understand the love that will guide all humanity into the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by your grace allow us to play our part in lifting high the name which is above all other names. Amen

Reading. Psalm 86:1-17. This psalm of David’s becomes a prayer from the heart as he reaches out to the Lord for comfort and strength. While he is hard pressed by enemies still it is the attributes of the Lord that come surging into his mind. Here is a God who listens to the cry of someone who is in need and is not only listener but also one who answers. David recognises this God is unique for “there is none like you”. Let us draw our attention to verse 11. “Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart to revere your name”. Psalm 86:11 (NRSV) An undivided heart or a heart in unity with itself is a key principle in scripture. We live in a world of compromise, never the less there is one area of life in which we must not compromise and that is our loyalty and obedience to the Lord. To allow no compromise in that area affects every other area of our lives. It is a far reaching prayer and a solid reminder that when we say we are the Lord’s it is his will and way which is to direct every action.

Prayer. Gracious God your unfailing love comes to each one of your children and each new day brings an abundance of blessings. Teach us to walk before you with integrity of heart: Grant to us minds fixed on you as we go through each day. May our whole life in every part be in keeping with your will. Help us to do this not to seek a reward but to show our delight and love in being your children. To you Lord be all praise, through Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen

Collect. Grant us, Lord, not be anxious about earthly things, but to love things heavenly; and even now, while we are placed among things that are passing away, to hold fast to those things that shall abide; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

14 June Part 2

Lectionary Reading 14 June Pt2

Collect. Jesus, source of wisdom, your teachings reveal the hidden God. Ground us firmly in faith that we may hear your words, and put them into practice; we ask this in your name. Amen.

Reading. Romans 5:1-6 In Martin Luther’s Preface to the Epistle to the Romans, Luther describes this chapter as “The fruits of Faith” In the fifth chapter the apostle proceeds to discuss the fruits and the works of faith, such as peace, joy, love of God and of all our fellow-men; moreover, assurance, boldness, cheerfulness, courage, and hope amidst tribulation and sufferings. For all these things follow where there is genuine faith, because of the superabundant treasure which God has bequeathed to us in Christ, when He caused Him to die for us before we could pray Him to do this, nay, while we were still enemies. (page 14) As we read the familiar words from Romans we recognise the wonderful theme of salvation with its accompanying joy, peace with God through Christ and an abundance of hope that we will share God’s glory. To live in peace and joy, in harmony with others has a wonderful appeal. Then Paul goes on that we will rejoice in enduring suffering in order to produce the hope that sustains us. This reminds us that from the human perspective things will not always play out quite as we might expect. How then can we accommodate our experience in life with the wonderful description that Paul writes about? Peace comes at God’s instigation. It has nothing to do with who or what we are: the peace that is offered is all on God’s side, it is available by the action of God through Jesus Christ. That means the peace is always available, it is not here today and gone tomorrow. Furthermore it is not determined by the circumstances we experience. God’s peace is available to every Christian and that is a given. Because of this we press on, trusting that God who is in control of all things will guide us through the circumstances we face to an end which is filled with hope. The Lord God offers the same kindness and mercy to each person. All are loved even before they have any connection with God, indeed this passage reminds us that most of us start out in life as enemies of God. That is to say our aims and ambitions are contrary to what God wants for us and from us. Even so God still loves each one of us. Through his love and peace our lives are redirected and life takes on a whole new meaning. Though we may sometimes miss step, because of God’s gracious love and peace we can always begin again. That we do have peace with God is a statement which should still fill us with amazement and wonder.

Prayer. Lord I thank you that your love for us is without end, may our love in return be without pretence, a whole hearted desire through the merits of our Lord Jesus Christ to be in close relationship with you,. Guide our pathway through this week and through this day so that in all we do we may be your children. Forgive us for we can be so calculating in our relationships with people. We trust only those we think are worthy of trust and we find it so much easier to love those who are like us. Forgive us when we do not treat every person equally. Guide us all into the harmony that you have won for us through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Reading. Matthew 9:35-10:8 “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; We live in a society where the response to God seems to grow less with each passing year. Truly the harvest is plentiful, there are many people who do not know God nor worship him. If there was ever a time to rethink that situation that time has now arrived. It is interesting to note that immediately after signalling that there is a harvest to be gathered that Jesus calls into special service the twelve apostles. The meaning of the word apostle (apostellō) is to be sent out, or the one sent out. So Jesus is recognising the need and equipping his disciples to begin to address the need. The passage is also emphasising the need to pray that the Father will prepare harvesters to meet the need. Praying for labourers would achieve several things. We are privileged to bring our needs to God; then as we pray for labourers we become more aware of the need; and through our prayers we and others are more sensitive to hear God’s call to labour and more able to receive his equipping for this necessary service. Not only was there a harvest but there was also a lack of shepherds and so we are also charged to pray that those without a shepherd would be gathered into the fold. Today in the sending out of the disciples, Matthew reminds us that true Christian shepherding has a goal in mind. There is a very clear message that Christ’s servants are to be of vital assistance. The command shows us that help is to be offered to those most in need. The sick, the outcasts and those who have no status are the very ones that Christ’s followers are called to serve. It also strongly reminds us that the call and the equipping come from God alone. All are called to pray but it is Jesus who chooses and Jesus who sends out.

Prayer. Forgive me Lord that because I can feel lost and alone I often focus on my needs and forget the great privileges that come from you, and the real opportunities your presence affords. Help me to lift my eyes and see the need around me, for those who are truly in need, those who know nothing of your love and those whose cry is so painful it can only be expressed inwardly. By your powerful love, let me be a servant of comfort and peace, drawing always on your mercy and love; in the name of Jesus the compassionate saviour. Amen

Lectionary Reading 14 June

Lectionary Reading 14 June

Sentence: Happy is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage. Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you. Psalm 33:12,22 (NRSV)

Reading. Genesis 18:1-15. Many of my friends speak of the delight of having grand children; it seems there is much joy without the same responsibility of parenting a child. Then again grandchildren also bring the joy of heritage, knowing that the family line will live on for another generation! Abraham had been promised that his family line would increase, with members too many to number. The reality for Abraham was that Sarah and he were now long past the time for child rearing or child bearing. The promise of an on-going heritage was more remote than ever. When three strangers approached Abraham’s camp site he showed them elaborate hospitality. Abraham had been approached by the Lord before so he responds to the sense of God’s presence with deepest respect. After they have shared the offered hospitality Abraham hears the message that by this time next year a son will be born to Sarah. It is this news that causes Sarah to laugh, though when pressed she denies laughing. Sarah’s laughter is excusable for from her perspective the idea of bearing a son was physically impossible. However the scripture notes that while it is humanly impossible the Lord removes the obstacles through his promise: “Is anything too hard for the Lord” v14. Through God’s covenant promise Abraham was to receive a legitimate heir and here in this passage we read of the promise being fulfilled: More than that, we read the clear emphasis that this promise from God will come without any hint of human endeavour. God will provide a dynasty through Abraham based solely on his action, they will therefore be the people of God.. Abraham was destined to be the “father of many nations” through God’s promise and in this passage we see the promise begin to take shape. The formation of the people of God does not come about by human endeavour but only through God’s action. God keeps the promises made to his people and nothing can or will stand in his way. Our God is a God of salvation, and to God, the Lord, belongs escape from death. Psalm 68:20 (NRSV)

Prayer. Gracious Lord as we read about your blessing of Abraham and Sarah we think again of your hand at work in our world bringing us into your family. Grant that we will be so aware of the blessing that is ours through your grace that with willing hearts we will honour your name in all we say and do. May we look always to you for guidance and direction, seeking your wisdom in all of life’s opportunities and dangers; and using your gifts and strength alone fulfil the purpose for which we were created. To you be all thanks and praise. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen

Reading Psalm 116:1-2,12-19 This psalm begins with the great statement that the God we worship is the God who hears. It is because God hears that we call out to God our whole life long. This hearing forms part of our life experience of God and the psalmist has in mind that God not only hears but God also acts, and acts in the here and now. We often read that God is one who is far from us but for the psalmist the reality that he saw was that God, our God is always close at hand, close enough to hear. By hearing God will not remain unmoved but will always act for the good of his people. Such is the wonderful attention that is paid to God’s people that the psalmist asks the question of himself and of others, “what then will be our response?”

The psalmist draws our attention to the cup of salvation. As we cry out to the Lord and we are assured that God hears: it is then that we remember that God offers to us the cup of salvation or deliverance from which to drink. Cups made of precious metal were used in sacrificial worship in the temple. In festivals held in homes cups were also raised in celebration and thanksgiving and perhaps it is this memory that the psalmist is bringing to mind: lifting the cup in praise and gratitude to the God who hears.

No matter in what extremity we may find ourselves, as we call out to the Lord the response is always one of salvation or deliverance. Salvation always carries with it the sense of rescue and healing, but also of wholeness and of being complete. So often when in difficulty we call out with a particular end in mind but God’s answer, (probably different from our own will) is always perfect for us and brings the deliverance that we need. If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! Matthew 7:11 (NRSV) The psalmist recognises full well that God can and does deliver. It is the Lord on whom we can always rely to bring us the essence of life.

Prayer. Almighty Lord, you are from everlasting to everlasting. There is none like you. To you alone we lift up our hands and our hearts knowing with thanksgiving that you are always ready to hear our voices. Forgive us when we look for our own way forward and forget that it is you who leads us. Help us to be ready to wait on your guidance and grace to lead us along the paths that are best for us. So then gracious Lord may our whole life both together and apart be lived in full obedience, and may you receive the honour and glory. Amen

Collect. Lord God of the nations, you have revealed your will to all people and promised us your saving help. May we hear and do what you command, that the darkness may be overcome by the power of your light; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.

Trinity Sunday Part 2

Trinity Sunday Part 2

Read. I Corinthians 13:11-13. The final verse in this short passage recalls the familiar words of the benediction often used to close Christian gatherings. This is the verse that reminds us of the tripartite action of God, namely, the love of the father, the grace of the Son and the sharing in or communion with the Holy Spirit. Paul used this blessing to end a description of the church’s life. It comes at the end of a rather diverse letter to the church at Corinth. In the letter he has both encouraged and sternly warned them about their collective life together. Here in this closing statement he is reminding them of the need to respond to their faith in a most tangible way. Some define ‘faith’ as taking a step into the dark as you do not know exactly what is entailed in faith. A different definition of faith is “acting on the facts”. If faith is acting on the facts then we need to know just what the facts are. As Paul draws his final statement to a close we can understand where his emphasis lies. As he says farewell he is also saying rejoice, rejoice because of the love Christ has for you. Continue to grow into maturity, be perfectly strengthened, for you know that Jesus is always with you: Be encouraged and comforted knowing that Jesus is faithful and will never abandon you. Be gentle in thought about one another as you live together; in fact live together in peace. Be together in this way because you know that the God of love and the peace God brings is always with you. Faith when lived out brings a harmony both in each believer and also between believers. When believers come together they can greet each other without pretence, knowing that they are all united through the love and grace of God. What was true for Paul’s flock in Corinth is still true for every Christian Congregation today. The challenge therefore is for every Christian to live out their faith by acting on the facts!

Prayer. Lord at the end of another busy week, when we have time to put aside the routines and think more of you we pray for your blessing as we lift our hands in prayer to you once more. We pray for those who find no rest or peace because of their life’s situation. We think of those who are unable to participate in the normal activities of life: Those who can no longer venture out or mingle with their friends. We think of those who cannot gather to worship and Lord we pray for them, asking that your blessing and peace will surround them. May we be so empowered through our praise and worship even while in isolation, that we will be a true Christian blessing to those whom we speak to or meet. Gracious Lord, refresh and renew us so that we are ready to meet the week ahead full of praise and joy because we have been with Jesus. Amen

Read. Matthew 28:16-20. The disciples meet the risen Jesus in Galilee a meeting also referred to in Marks gospel. Given the circumstances it is not surprising to read that some of the disciples had doubts. We have heard so often the stories of Jesus’ resurrection and appearances that they seem to describe an almost normal situation, however we need to remember that the disciples had not anticipated Jesus would immediately return from the dead. Therefore this would have been an emotionally charged meeting and would have given added emphasis to the words that Jesus spoke to them. So much of what was occurring would have been hard to fully comprehend for here was someone who had died now physically present to them, directing them to receive the authority to take out to the whole world the teachings that Jesus had disclosed in his earthly ministry. Jesus is passing on to them what we now refer to as “The great commission”. A few decades ago in the Church Growth Movement, this passage was used as a spur to remind the church of the need to teach the message of Jesus to all who would listen. The disciples would have needed no spur to encourage them to relate this now amazing good news, and indeed this is what they did. In the writings of the early church this “commission” is not given any special emphasis. Perhaps because the New Testament is full of stories concerning the dynamic ministry of the risen Jesus proclaimed by the disciples. This was no easy task as Paul relates, “We do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, of the affliction we experienced in Asia; for we were so utterly, unbearably crushed that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death so that we would rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead. 2 Corinthians 1:8-9 (NRSV).

Despite the hardships the disciples went out under the authority of Jesus and proclaimed Good News to all who would listen. N T Wright tells the story of a bishop lamenting”When Paul preached riot occurred, when I preach, they serve cups of tea!” There is probably much more to that story but it is a sad reflection of life in today’s church. Not that the church should be instigating riots yet somehow the cutting edge of the gospel has been blunted. No longer is the message of Jesus seen as essential for true life and living, it is more something to pay attention to from time to time. Maybe as these readings are heard we will all be inspired to grasp again the amazing truth, that Jesus lives and because of him, life can never be the same again.

Prayer. Gracious God, we thank you for the message of good news that comes through the life and ministry of Jesus: May the living word that flows from him be fully active in our world today. Lord it is a word bringing change day by day; you are always a God with a future. Today we thank you for giving us a future through Jesus and we pray for those whose life experience suggests name. To him be glory and honour for ever more. Amen

Collect for Trinity. (Methodist Worship Book) Almighty and ever lasting God, you have given us your servants grace by the confession of a true faith to acknowledge the glory of the eternal Trinity, and in the power of the divine majesty to worship the Unity: keep us steadfast in this faith, that we may evermore be defended from all adversities, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Trinity Sunday

Lectionary Reading Trinity Sunday

Introduction: In this set of readings we remember how God created all things. We remember how right from the beginning God’s grace blessed his people with a covenant of authority. The readings also remind us that it was the action of the Spirit that enlivened all things and that empowering continues on until this age should end.

Read Genesis 1:1-2:4a. In the readings for Pentecost we read about the activity of the Spirit bringing life and power to the disciples and so to the whole church. In today’s reading we see again the creative energy of the Spirit moving to bring order into the whole of creation. God is in action with and by the Spirit and so Creator, Word and Spirit work together in unison and harmony to bring into being an orderly creation. Part of that created order is the privilege and responsibility given to human beings. The completion of creation brings rest and God declares that it is all good. The creation is viewed as a living vibrant whole and humanity’s task is to maintain its well being. The authority that human beings are given is to ensure that the “good creation” remains good and that rest will be available to all. Rest in this sense is not inactivity but creation itself operating together in unison and harmony. As creation brought order out of chaos, so under God’s given authority everything in creation works together so that chaos is no more.

Prayer. Lord we recognise that your creation is wonderful and moment by moment speaks out praise of you. Help us to recognise the beauty and yet the fragility of what you have created. Help us to treat the whole creation with a care which reflects honour to you. May we take nothing for granted but work to sustain and protect each aspect of this home in which we live, a home specially built to care for life. May we play our part in the gracious covenant that you have made with all your people. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Read Psalm 8. This psalm is a great way to continue thinking about the lead up to Trinity Sunday. The psalmist has an awe inspired vision of God. Not only does God’s glory fill the whole earth, the whole of creation is so filled that creation itsself gives expression to the glory of God. Then the psalmist’s attention turns to humanity and recalls how good God is by restating the covenant which the Creator made with humanity from the very birth of creation. Under the sovereignty of God humanity commands great authority by being made, “a little less than God”. In the reading above we noted that humanity is made in the image of God, being made in the image of God is expressed by two parallel ideas. Firstly, the image of God recognises the human capability to respond to God and to enter into relationship with God. Secondly, being made in the image of God signals the responsibility to respond to God and live in obedience with God. Viewing the image of God in in such a way reminds us that people occupy a high place in God’s creation. Following on from yesterday’s thoughts we see that all people are God’s representatives on earth, the possessors of God-given power and under God’s control exercise authority over creation. As the psalmist affirms, all people have been crowned “with glory and honour” Whether “all’ people pick up this responsibility of exercising authority is another question all together but like it or not, respond to it or not, we are called to steward all of God’s creation on his behalf.

Prayer. Lord we stand and wonder at your love for us, for indeed we are often the most unlovable of creatures; we think often of our own needs and neglect the needs of others, we look down on those whom we consider inferior, often without reason and yet we pretend that we are as one with you. Nevertheless in your love, you embrace us with an unending love and your forgiveness pours down over us constantly. You have without a doubt crowned us with glory and honour. As we face the reality of your love we bow in humility and can do nothing more than to accept your love. Through the power of your love help us to be filled with your peace and grant us the grace to walk as effective ambassadors for you: fulfilling all that you require of us as we relate to the other creatures that you have equally crowned with glory and honour. This we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Collect: Almighty and eternal God, you have revealed yourself as father, Son and Holy Spirit. Enable us to live by the Spirit, that, walking with Christ and rejoicing in your fatherly love we may become partakers of the mystery of your divine being, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, three persons in one indivisible God, for ever and ever. Amen