Tagged: Calling

Isaiah 42:1-9

This text is used for the Lectionary Year A on January 8th, 2017.

The structure of the passage is quite succinct and clear. The first half (vv. 1-4), God was speaking directly to the servant. In so doing, God affirmed the servant by declaring him as being approved and empowered. God even foretold of the servant’s future success. Verse 5 is a transition that will lead to God speaking directly to the servant. In the remainder of the passage God turned His attention to the servant (vv. 6-9), He affirmed and reassured the servant had been commissioned and empowered by God to accomplish the task for which he had been called.

This servant’s method was much different from that of the kings of the day. The servant would not complain and “shout or cry out” (v. 2) when the responsibility became overly difficult and burdensome. Neither would this servant treat those who were considered less or disadvantaged – the “bruised reed” and “smoldering wick” (v. 3) – as objects to be discarded. No, this servant would be in great contrast of the kings; Cyrus, Josiah or Jehoiakim, of the servant’s day.

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Jeremiah 1:4-10

This text is used for the Lectionary Year C on January 31, 2016

Jeremiah, Michaelangelo 1511
Jeremiah, Michaelangelo 1511

Most congregations will be familiar with this passage in Jeremiah. The description of Jeremiah being knitted together in his mother’s womb under the careful watch of God is a favorite reference of the pro-life movement. Indeed, this is a tender moment for any of us when we think about the imminence of God. A God who, Jesus tells us, knows the number of the hairs on our heads. Yet, in context, the description is even more meaningful to the prophet in the context of his ministry and, of course, richer in meaning for us as well.

Jeremiah was called to confront a corrupt political system and an immoral society that really didn’t want to hear what he had to say. He would pay dearly for his willingness to speak the truth. For bringing God’s word to God’s people he would be beaten, thrown in a well, imprisoned, and hounded. Beside the physical suffering he endured, he would agonize over a nation that wouldn’t respond to the salvation God was offering. He would beg for his eyes to become fountains so he could weep and weep for his people whose choices were taking them further and further away from God.

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Matthew 4:12-23

This text is used for the Lectionary Year A on January 26, 2014.

Jesus entered a story in progress. The opening chapter was set in a prehistoric paradise and was followed by fall, flawed patriarchs, judges, prophets, kings, priests and everyday God followers. All nations of the earth played a part in the story but their role is often seen as merely supporting. The beginning of Jesus’ preaching ministry places a sharp point on matters. Israel’s Messiah invites the nations to enter from stage left.  Matthew’s gospel ends with a commission to disciple all nations (Matthew 28:19). This emphasis begins in Capernaum. Continue reading →