Dear Friends of Jesus:
Today’s scripture passages from the Hebrew Bible remind us of a covenant people’s storied rebellion at the foot of a sacred mountain. In Exodus 32, we read the story of a rescued people’s propensity to seek security in idols of their own making. It is also the tale of a prophet/liberating leader, Moses, and his compassion and advocacy for the people, even when they are at their worst. We also have a song in Psalm 106 that echoes the story of Exodus 32, recounting God’s faithfulness in spite of the people’s idolatrous song and dance around the golden calf at Sinai (and the poor leadership of Aaron, who helps them trade “their glorious God” for a knock-off cow “who eats grass”). Moses’s patient advocacy and thoughtful leadership turn both Aaron’s incompetence and God’s justified anger toward mercy for a people who, like us, tend to forget the God who has rescued us. The prophet Isaiah offers a song of praise to God who has been a refuge and shelter for the poor and needy. Like a cloud giving shade from the ‘more heat than light’ bluster of those who violate others with words (“the song of the ruthless” in the NRSV), God will silence the abuse, wipe away tears, and even swallow up death. This salvation song is a promise kept from our perspective, a thread of hope for God’s awaited salvation for those who first heard it in the midst of occupation and exile. The New Testament scripture readings take center stage on this Laity Sunday, especially 2 Timothy 1:13, in the context of other writings in the so-called ‘pastoral epistles’ and the other writings of Paul. The wedding party parable from Matthew 22 reminds us that everyone is invited to feast and fellowship in God’s kingdom. Not only that, all (evil and good) are gathered together, even – and maybe even especially – those on “the edge of town.” The deafening silence of those who think their clothing speaks for itself and earns them a place at the table is followed by heartache, tears, and a self-imposed exile beyond the open table fellowship that is always and ever extended to all. (Who knows, maybe even those making noise from the “farthest darkness.”) The familiar Philippians passage from chapter four speaks directly to a context of disagreement among those who have “struggled together” in the work and ministry of sharing good news. It also encourages joy, gentleness, and prayer since God is so close. And the promised peace that comes from God with us accompanies those who practice what they heard and witnessed in the lives of Paul and Timothy. The short reading from 2 Timothy 1:13 encapsulates the writer’s advice to hear and hold tight to the pattern of healing words witnessed in the faith and love of Jesus – a love and mercy that has remade and restored Paul’s own problematic life. This resonates with the message of the other so-called ‘pastoral epistles’ (1 Timothy, Titus), where toxic words (teaching) threaten the wholeness of these faith communities. For today, please embrace Psalm 106. This psalm echoes the story of Exodus 32, recounting God’s faithfulness in spite of the people’s idolatrous song and dance around the golden calf at Sinai (and the poor leadership of Aaron, who helps them trade “their glorious God” for a knock-off cow “who eats grass”). Moses’s patient advocacy and thoughtful leadership turn both Aaron’s incompetence and God’s justified anger toward mercy for a people who, like us, tend to forget the God who has rescued us. Have you ever felt forgiven by God? What did it look like, feel like? How did this inform your faith? If at a loss, you might take this to prayer. Always remember: Draw near to God and God draws near to you. ~James 4:8 In His Service, P Jim ♥️⚓️ ♡Special thanks to Rev. Mindi, workingpreacher, Hope for the Broken Hearted, Kelly's Treehouse and/or Star Bright Angels for their contribution to this effort of Daily Prayer and Study. All scripture is taken from the Revised Common Lectionary and, unless otherwise indicated, from the New International Version of the Bible. The intent of this effort is to inform our faith and grow closer to God, while preparing for next Sunday's Worship. <x>< Comments are closed.
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September 2023
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