Sunday next before Advent/Trinity XXV- John 6: 5-14

In the 1928 American BCP, the last Sunday of the church year is "the Sunday next before Advent." The Collect, the "liturgical Epistle" from Jeremiah , and the Gospel from St. John are those assigned for Trinity XXV in the 1662 Prayer Book. All three contain themes appropriate to anticipate Advent, but let us focus on the Gospel.

The Gospel (John 6:5-14 ) is the story of feeding the 5000. Although this familiar story has several themes or applications, on this Sunday, we notice that it reminds us of the expectations and hopes that Jesus fulfilled. When the people see His miracle with the small loaves and fish, they affirm that He is "that prophet that should come into the world" (St. John 6: 14 ). He is the one who was to come. He is the prophet like Moses predicted in Deuteronomy 18:15,18.  Indeed, Jesus is much greater than Moses. Not only is He divine, but He also establishes a covenant greater than the one established through the work of Moses (Hebrews 8:6). 

Certainly, Christian believers think that Jesus is much more than a prophet, but we still affirm that He is a prophet. In fact, Christian theology has often used prophet as one of the three functions (along with priest and king) that describe the work of Christ. Jesus is the long-expected prophet who is the culmination of  Hebrew prophecy. He completes and finishes God's revelation. He completes the work of redemption that begins with Adam, continues through Noah to Abraham, and is present in the ministry of Moses and subsequent Hebrew prophets. 

In conclusion as we end a Christian year on this Sunday, we look to Jesus Christ, greater than all the prophets. He was and is the One to come, the One greater than even Moses. Everything that precedes and follows Jesus finds its ultimate meaning in Him. 

Trinity XXIV- Colossians 1:9-10

For this Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Trinity, let us focus on some words from the Epistle. The Apostle recognizes the faith and discipleship of the Colossians, and then he adds, "For this cause, we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God..."(Col. 1:9-10).

Coming to faith in Jesus Christ as Savior is at the core of Christianity. It is the great essential in becoming Christian, in accepting God's redeeming work. Anything we accomplish without faith is spiritually worthless. Yet, as important as believing or trusting in Christ is, faith is one aspect of the Christian life. As the Apostle indicates to the Colossians, Christians should keep growing. Many people may recognize this fact and emphasize that living faith produces fruit in good deeds. Again, such a recognition is worthwhile.

However, many Christians ignore Paul's prayers and exhortations that believers should grow in knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. The Apostle does not want the Colossians or us to be like some of those at Corinth who remained "babes in Christ" (I Cor. 3:1). While some believers may always be immature, Scripture and Christian tradition are filled with examples of people from varied stations in life who grow in knowledge and wisdom. Let us pray that we too may continue to grow in our understanding of the Christian faith throughout life!

Trinity XXIII- Citizenship- Philippians 3:20

On the Twenty-Third Sunday after Trinity, the Scripture readings emphasize the appropriate attitude of believers to secular authorities. Many passages of Scripture point out the general duty of Christians to be law-abiding whenever they can in good conscience. Even corrupt governments may provide some degree of order and security. However, human authorities do not have ultimate authority; only God does.

In today's Epistle from Philippians, the Apostle Paul reminds Christians where our highest loyalty is. In Philippians 3:20, he writes, "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ" (BCP/Coverdale, NKJV, ESV). As Christians, we look to heaven and divine rule. We seek to apply our earthly citizenship within the higher context of our heavenly citizenship and our loyalty to our Lord Jesus Christ.    

Trinity XXII

For this week, my attention fell on the Collect for the Day for the Twenty-second Sunday after Trinity. It reads:

LORD, we beseech thee to keep thy household the Church in continual godliness; that through thy protection it may be free from all adversities, and devoutly given to serve thee in good works, to the glory of thy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

This collect dates from at least the eighth century if not earlier. It contains basic themes that tie together the assigned Scripture lessons. It views the Church as a household or extended family under the guidance and protection of God the heavenly Father. He is the source of all goodness and godliness, and only through His gracious help can His human children do good.

Trinity XIII- Three Uses of the Law- Galatians 3:16-22

 Both the Epistle from Galatians 3:16-22 and the Gospel from Luke 10:23-37 discuss the divine Law, and both point out some of its purposes and the problems of fulfillment. So let us spend some time considering the Law and its purposes. Before looking at these issues, we begin with a warning based on Scripture. The Law is good and useful, but the Law cannot save us; only God's grace can save us. 

Basically, the divine Law has three purposes. First, the Law shows us God's holy expectations in order to restrain outward sin. Secondly, the Law points out our sins in order to lead us to repentance and faith. Thirdly, the Law functions as a helpful guide to those with Christian faith.

1. The first purpose has sometimes been called Civil Use. The general purpose of the Law among all human beings is the restraint of evil. Human societies and individuals have some sense of right and wrong. In diverse cultures and religions, people see that certain actions such as theft and murder are wrong. Even when groups or individuals excuse their own bad behavior, most human beings acknowledge some provisions of the Law. Wherever higher philosophies or monotheism have been influential, people recognize more of the Law. As many Scriptures indicate, the divine Law is implanted in the natural law of creation. In Romans 1:19-20, we read. "Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse." The Law, in and of itself, cannot change human hearts. It can, however, help to protect the law-abiding from the unjust. The Law promotes a limited measure of justice on this earth until the last judgment is realized. 

2. The second purpose of the Law can be called the Pedagogical Use. This purpose of the Law works somewhat like a mirror. On the one hand, the Law of God reflects and mirrors the perfect righteousness of God. The Law tells us much about who God is, how He acts, and what He expects. On the other hand, the Law shows human sinfulness. This use of the Law is emphasized in Galatians 3. The Law highlights our weakness as fallen beings so that we might seek the grace, forgiveness, and strength found in Christ. It can be said that the law acts as a severe schoolmaster who drives us to Christ. The Law points us toward the Christian faith.

3. The third purpose of the Law might be called the Normative Use. This purpose of the Law is to remind believers what is pleasing to God. As adopted children of God, the Law provides external guidance as we seek to do the will of our heavenly Father. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). We see this deeper moral and spiritual purpose of the Law in Luke 10 where the Good Samaritan shows mercy to a "neighbor." This spiritual and moral guidance might be considered the highest function of the Law among those who have faith in Christ. It helps the people of God to give Him honor and glory in all areas of life.

In conclusion, Christians still owe obedience to the spiritual and moral Law that God reveals in Scripture. We have been freed from the curse of God’s Law. We know that our obedience to the Law cannot save us, but we still have a duty to obey it. Through divine grace, we are given new opportunities to understand and keep the commandments as expressions of love for God and neighbor.

Trinity X- Luke 19:41-47

The Gospel for the Tenth Sunday after Trinity is from Luke 19:41-47a where our Lord laments the spiritual corruption of Jerusalem and its temple. We should note that the problems of the city and the temple result from false beliefs and values. Both the city and the temple are infected by worldly values. They seek solutions in political and economic activities rather than through faith, morals, and prayer.

As we look at our world, we still see similar problems and similar false solutions. While politics and economics have their uses, they are not the real and ultimate solutions. Like ancient Jerusalem, our deepest needs are for faith in God, real moral standards, and sincere prayer. This is true for individuals, for society, and for the Church. So let us turn from worldly solutions to the religious, moral, and spiritual practices that lead to the true peace that comes from God!

Trinity VIII- False Leaders- Matthew 7:15

The Gospel for the Eighth Sunday after Trinity contains this warning from our Lord: "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves" (Matthew 7:15). False prophets and other corrupt leaders were a problem for ancient Israel, during Christ's time, and for the Christian Church at many times in history.

Although corruption is an ongoing human problem, corrupt leadership seems even more of an issue in our time. Such corruption is particularly disheartening when it becomes obvious among leaders who pretend to be Christians of one kind or another. Some corrupt leaders are secular officials, and even sadder, there are many corrupt ministers and church officials who do not seem to have a minimal appreciation of the doctrines and morals found in Holy Scripture. There are many bishops, priests, and pastors from varied backgrounds who are really wolves that mislead and devour Christ's flock.

Thus, we must beware, but we must not despair. Jesus Christ is still our great and good shepherd who watches over us from heaven and assists us with His Word and the Holy Spirit. And although corrupt leaders do cause much damage, they do not endure forever. God limits the rule of evil, and He continues to raise up good leaders among the faithful remnant of His people. So let us persevere in faith and in hope!

Trinity VII- Feeding the Four Thousand- Mark 8:1-9

Food and eating are common themes in human life and in Holy Scripture. The Gospel for this Seventh Sunday after Trinity is the miracle of Jesus Feeding the Four Thousand from Mark 8:1-9. This account may seem more familiar than it really is because a similar Feeding of the 5000 occurs in all four Gospels. So let us highlight a few details in this account. 

As is the case in many New Testament miracles, we see that our Lord is moved with compassion. Besides having a general concern for human need, Jesus cares for particular people in particular circumstances. The  people in this account have shown interest in Christ's spiritual message and have come out into an unsettled area to hear the Gospel. Any food they brought is gone, and Christ is concerned that they return home safely.

We should also note the location. It happens in the Decapolis, a predominately Gentile region beyond the Sea of Galilee. So the crowd that listens to Jesus is probably a mixture of Jews and Gentiles. While Jesus’ earthly ministry focused on the Jews, this is one of several examples where He also ministers to Gentiles.

In addition to these details, let us highlight two points. Point 1) - This physical miracle has spiritual and symbolic importance. The meal Jesus provides points toward the Messianic kingdom of God. People from various places and backgrounds come together, grow in faith, and are fed by God and His Christ. They are fed from seven loaves, and there are seven baskets of food remaining. Seven is a biblical number representing fullness or completeness. This means that Jesus the Messiah brings fulfillment or completion. Those who follow Him may not always have lavish feasting, but they do receive good, satisfying, and strengthening nourishment.

Point 2) – The miracle of Feeding 4000 teaches us what Jesus Christ continues to do for people from all sorts of backgrounds. He provides us bread from heaven. He Himself is the very bread of life. He provides us the bread that nourishes, strengthens, and satisfies our souls. He meets our deepest needs as spiritual and moral beings. He feeds us through Word and Sacrament. Whenever we are open to His Word in Scripture and His Presence in the Eucharist, He offers us forgiveness, grace, and renewed strength to follow Him. Thanks be to God for His Son Jesus Christ, the living bread from heaven!

Trinity IV- Luke 6:36-42

The Prayer Book lessons for the Fourth Sunday after Trinity are especially strong and rich passages. In the Epistle from Romans 8:18-23, the Apostle Paul contrasts the sufferings of this present world with the glory that will be made manifest. He encourages believers to continue in hope as they look toward final redemption. Christians always need to hear this message, especially during difficult times.

In the Gospel from Luke 6:36-42, we have a portion of Jesus' Sermon on the Plain which is similar to the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7. The basic theme in this selection is being merciful toward others as we hope for God to be merciful toward us. In this context, our Lord tells us not to judge others. This command does not mean that we cannot evaluate people and events in practical ways. Practical judgments are necessary for physical and spiritual survival and growth. However, we must beware of the limits of our practical human judgments and evaluations. We are not God. We do not know all the factors in other people's lives, and even when we have good information, we have our own biases and prejudices. So we must remain humble and seek divine mercy for ourselves and others. We must never assume that our practical human opinions about other people are valid reflections of their standing before God!

Trinity III- Resisting the Adversary- I Peter 5: 5-11

The Epistle for the Third Sunday after Trinity is a famous and striking passage from 1 St. Peter 5:5-11. This short selection from near the end of the letter contains important themes such as grace, humility, faith, confidence, perseverance, suffering, and temptation. In particular, let us notice 1 Peter 5:8-9, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. Whom resist stedfast in the faith...."

As Christians seek to grow in grace, we should always be aware that we do not merely struggle against natural conditions or only against our personal weaknesses. We are involved in the cosmic struggle between God and evil. We know that God in Christ has triumphed and will return in final victory. In the meantime, earthly struggles continue, and by divine grace, we must resist evil through faith in our Savior Jesus Christ. He is our only real hope and strength in a fallen world and a corrupt age!

Trinity II- Worldly Hate- I John 3:13

The Epistle and Gospel for the Second Sunday after Trinity contain great theological themes such as love, mercy, and mission. However, this time I would focus on one verse with great practical wisdom for Christians. The selection from the Epistle, 1 John 3: 13 begins "Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you." 

Many believers down through the centuries have appreciated the value of John's warning. They have known that the fallen world, sometimes even within the institutional church, opposes and indeed hates the Christian message and those who sincerely seek to live in accordance with the Gospel. Unfortunately, in recent centuries, many western Christians have forgotten this Biblical truth. They have accepted the two assumptions that most human beings are "nice" and that even worldly people are well-disposed toward the Christian message. From a Biblical perspective, such assumptions have never been accurate, and they apply even less to secularized societies that no longer accept generally Christian values. Believers need to be realistic. While we look for the good in others and strive to live peaceably, we must take the fallenness of humanity and the world seriously.

Most Christians prefer to be liked, but Jesus warns His followers repeatedly that He and they must be ready to face worldly hatred. In John 15:18-19, we read,  "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you." The early Christians knew and accepted this teaching. Many Christians have become aware of it repeatedly throughout history. In secular and so-called post-Christian societies, we must all learn once more to take this Biblical teaching seriously. Loyalty to Jesus Christ means that we are not of the world, and the world does not react very nicely when rejected. Knowing this, we must be spiritually courageous and faithful!

Trinity Sunday- John 3

Emphasizing the doctrine of the Holy Trinity on the Sunday after Pentecost is fitting because Pentecost marks a fulfillment of the revelation of God in Three Persons. Although not defined in one particular place in Scripture, the doctrine of the Trinity is supported by many passages and summarizes the entire message of the Bible. The Trinitarian emphasis continued in the Christian Church as Scriptural teachings about God were summarized in the ancient creeds such as the Latin Apostles’ Creed and the Greek Nicene Creed.

Although a great mystery and although the history of discussions about the Trinity can be complicated, the basic concern of the doctrine is really simple. The doctrine of the Trinity teaches us about God, His nature, His love, and His grace. The doctrine proclaims His redeeming purposes. It is at the heart of Christian theology, life, and devotion. Even for believers who are not into abstract theology, the doctrine of the Holy Trinity is at the center of the Christian experience of God. It is the great mystery which calls us to living faith. We need to see and appreciate the doctrine of the Trinity in the context of an ongoing Christian life and devotion- in contexts such as Christian morality and Christian prayer. The triune God, the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit is always with us!

Pentecost (sometimes called Whitsunday)- John 14: 16-17

To start, let us consider the early Christian name for this day, Pentecost. The name comes from the Greek word "fifty." Among Greek-speaking Jews, this title was already applied to the Jewish "Feast of Weeks" which began fifty days after Passover. At this feast, weeks after Jesus's Resurrection, the Holy Spirit descended upon the hesitant disciples and transformed them into the living Church (Acts 2:1-21). This makes Pentecost one of the ancient and great feasts of the Church based on Scripture.  Later, as Christians developed a calendar, the Church set this commemoration for the fiftieth day after Easter. 

We know that the world is filled with many confused and confusing opinions on the Holy Spirit and spiritual matters. And the best way to avoid unsound teachings is to focus on the teachings of Jesus Christ about the Holy Spirit. In today's gospel from John 14:16-17 Jesus says, "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you." (KJV)

In these words of our Lord, we are reminded of the origins of the Spirit's work among believers. The Holy Spirit comes among Christ's followers as a gift from God the Father at the intercession of Jesus Christ. Although Scripture speaks of many functions and gift of the Spirit, here our Lord stresses two chief characteristics. The Holy Spirit is our comforter, helper, and guide in appreciating and applying divine truth. And the Holy Spirit comes from the Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit shares the holy nature of the Father and the Son, and He must be distinguished from the spirits of the surrounding world.

The Holy Spirit comes from the Father in Christ's name. His work is inseparable from the saving work of the Father and the Son. As the Holy Spirit guides us, He does not bring a new revelation. Instead, the Spirit helps us apply what has already been revealed in the words of Jesus. So Christians must be prudent in their spirituality. The true guidance of the Holy Spirit will always be consistent with the truth of the whole Biblical revelation, especially with Christ's words in the Gospels.

Sunday after Ascension Day- Colossians 3:1

In reflecting upon Christ's Ascension, a verse that the Prayer Book tradition assigns to Easter has always seemed to have a meaningful application to the Ascension. That verse is Colossians 3:1: "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God." Christians have been united with the risen and ascended Christ through Baptism and Faith. And because of our unity with Him, we have been offered a new perspective. 

Although we remain in this world, we should have a heavenly focus through our risen and ascended Lord Jesus. The difficulties of earthly life are real, but Christ has already overcome them on our behalf. That means that we have a new heavenly perspective on ourselves, other people, and worldly events. We have confidence that divine goodness triumphs through Jesus Christ, our Mediator and Intercessor. As the collect for this Sunday indicates, we pray that the Holy Spirit may "exalt us unto the same place whither our Saviour Christ is gone before" (1928 BCP, p. 179).

Ascension Day 2023- Luke 24:50-52

Thursday, May 18, 2023, is Ascension Day, the fortieth day after Christ's Resurrection. The Annunciation and the Ascension might be considered as two bookends for Christ's earthly ministry. The Ascension of Jesus back to the heavenly realm is mentioned in a number of New Testament Scriptures (notably Luke 24:50-52) and is a basic Christian doctrine affirmed in the ancient ecumenical Creeds. 

Christ's Ascension marks the end of His physical ministry on earth and the beginning of His heavenly rule and intercession at the right hand of God the Father. As an ending, it may be associated with wistful feelings about Jesus' days on earth, but as a beginning of His heavenly reign, Ascension Day is cause for rejoicing and thanksgiving. It also points believers in hope toward our Lord's final triumphant return.