Daily Office Readings for Saturday of Proper 8: Year 2
Morning, Psalm 137:1-6 and Psalm 144; Evening, Psalm 104;
Numbers 24:12-25; Romans 8:18-25; Matthew 22:23-40:
“Jesus answered them, ‘You are wrong, because you know neither the scriptures nor the power of God.” (Matthew 22:29)
It was in this Gospel according to Matthew that we have Jesus re-interpreting the Scriptures, particularly in chapter 5. Now we have Jesus telling the Sadducees (and many of us), that they have interpreted the ancient writings incorrectly. And he informs them that they also don’t really know about the power of God.
I look at the ancient biblical writings, mostly written by men, as recording their experiences with God as best they could in accordance with their very limited understanding of the planet and space and themselves. They did not always get it correct as Jesus informs this group of theologians. As an Education for Ministry (EfM) mentor and Christian Education teacher, I always explain that with God’s help, and with prayer before and after, we conduct our studies looking for truth, not facts. So called facts are sometimes shown to be not true but the truth always is.
I believe God is truth, pure goodness and merciful love. I believe God loves this fragile earth our island home and has caused all life to be good (until it is corrupted). I also believe there is a different, and holy realm that we pass on to when we expire from this life. And, as Jesus says in our Matthew reading for today, we will then be like angels in heaven. (Matthew 22:30).
As we listen to what the Spirit of God is saying to us, let us live to love and to serve, and to teach others to love and to serve, while pondering anew what the Almighty can do. John
Today we remember Independence Day, in the United States of America, July 4th
Let us pray: (BCP p. 242)
Lord God Almighty, in whose Name the founders of this country won liberty for themselves and for us, and lit the torch of freedom for nations then unborn: Grant that we and all the people of this land may have grace to maintain our liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
onewhoponders 