"And the crowd laughed at him.".....How about a sermon on the subject of being careful of what we laugh at.......perhaps it just reveals more about us than about the one who is being laughed at. Another alternative might be "Be careful with what you think you know." The crowd obviously believed that the girl could not live again....or could she? Rev. Bob
Pastor Bob: I resonate with your question: "Be careful what you think you know." The other day, after our church's healing service, a young woman who had prayed for healing for a veneral disease lingered to ask me, "Do you really think that God can heal me of this?" So, what does one say? Most likely, God won't. But maybe, just maybe.... I told her not to give up hope, and to keep praying and doctoring. And that perhaps the healing will be in learning how best to cope, physically and emotionally, with this disease
Our Episcopal Lectionary only uses Matt 9:9-13 -- and I'm preaching at our principal Sunday morning Eucharist which (on June 6) will enclude the sacrament of Holy Matrimony: two parish members have decided they want to be married in the context of our Sunday celebration. Suggestions on balancing this text with a marriage liturgy? I have a few ideas, but welcome input! It will be an interesting morning! Blessings, Susan in SanPedro
"enclude"??? Since when is that a word!! OOPS! Susan (fumble-fingers) in SanPedro
How do you think the other Apostles felt about the calling of Matthew. After all, they had just been called quite recently and must have been still wondering jnust what they had gotten themselves into. Now Jesus calls this Qujisling or perhaps, in 1990's terms This Aldrich Ames who had sold out his people and his country in order to make money through the corrupt Roman Taxation system. The Gospel does not tell us about this. Isn't this one of the great proclamations by Jesus that He wanted everyone and would not exclude anyone, not even a Tax Collector or Publican. The importantr thing about Matthew is, I think, not what he was but what he became. There is question about whether he wrote the Gospel bearing his name, but certainly, he was respected enough within the Apostolic Church so that they were willing to have his name grace the Gospel account. Bob (VA)
How do you think the other Apostles felt about the calling of Matthew. After all, they had just been called quite recently and must have been still wondering jnust what they had gotten themselves into. Now Jesus calls this Qujisling or perhaps, in 1990's terms This Aldrich Ames who had sold out his people and his country in order to make money through the corrupt Roman Taxation system. The Gospel does not tell us about this. Isn't this one of the great proclamations by Jesus that He wanted everyone and would not exclude anyone, not even a Tax Collector or Publican. The importantr thing about Matthew is, I think, not what he was but what he became. There is question about whether he wrote the Gospel bearing his name, but certainly, he was respected enough within the Apostolic Church so that they were willing to have his name grace the Gospel account. Bob (VA)
I'm tentatively looking at my every 6 month or so recurring sermon theme of Jesus healing us physically, emotionally and socially, but the foundation of ALL healing is spiritual healing. (Your faith has made you well.) Naturally, I'll use different words and illustrations, but that is a sermon theme that will preach to most everyone. Each person sees a different need at different times in their lives. My neighbor's problem this 6 months may be mine in another 6 months. revup
I've heard that St.Matthew is the tax-collector in this story. Jesus tells the exclusivist Pharisees that his healing love is for the disenfranchised of that day: tax collectors, unclean women, the daughters of non-Jews.
Would we need to include politicans, women, and children as "outsiders" if we told the story today, 2000 years later? Would St. Matthew need to tell us about the faithful refugee or immigrant? Would our version need to specify racial or ethnic outcasts who Jesus touched with healing through their faith?
Michael Middleton
Susan!
How cool is that: a wedding in the midst of regular Sunday worship! To me that means a marriage with Jesus in their midst, bound for all time to one another in a covenant with Christ who says, "Follow me!" If they can put Jesus first, the rest will probably work....
I find myself faced with the 'follow me' text, right after i have really exhorted our folks to become disciples, not just followers - oops! (I meant it, but gee....) I may preach on another text. Too bad I didn't look ahead and see the dilema I was creating for myself....
HW in HI
Michael Middleton: It is interesting to contemplate who the disenfranchised are today. You suggested, "politicans, women, and children, faithful refugee or immigrants, racial or ethnic outcasts." Good choices. Any other votes for the disenfranchised out there?
How about preachers' spouses or preachers' kids? Too often, they are not really accepted all that well, if at all. Some people, like politicians or lawyers, bring problems on themselves through pride or compromising morality for personal gain. Our spouses and kids get trouble or rejection for what their spouse or parent(s) do for a living! (They follow God's call.)
ALSO: I see three separate "healing" situations in the text.
A) Matthew was called by Jesus and went. I assume Matthew, as a usually dishonest tax collector of the time, needed to repent (drop what he was doing and follow Jesus) to be fully accepted by Jesus (and healed.) QUESTION! Jesus said God asked for mercy, not sacrifice, what does that mean?
B) The rich ruler (Note the luxury of his home?)went to Jesus and humbled himself before Jesus for his daughter's healing. He had to come to Christ humbly, dropping his pride as a ruler.
C) On the other hand, the bleeding woman only had to have faith and touch Jesus to be healed.
Does that stir any ideas? revup
Susan in San Pedro: I've been present at a wedding in the context of Sunday morning Eucharist, this before I was ordained. It was an elderly coupled, she was twice a widowed (three times, eventually) and he once. It was joyous. But I don't remember what the readings were. But anyway, I think the squable about eating with tax collectors and sinners might kind of go with the "Make their life together a sign of Christ's love to this sinful and broken world," etc. And what about that psalm? "Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving and make good your vows to the most high." I know a person who when making use of the Reconciliation of a Penitent always examines herself not just on the Ash Wednesday Litany but also on her vows -- baptismal, marriage, and ordination. Lots of food for thought. So I'm sure we're all curious -- do let us know how this goes! Barbara in SW Missouri
Susan,
I agree with HW -- what a great opportunity! A wedding during a Sunday service -- awesome. Actually, HW's comments remind me of a wedding homily I read not too long ago, the one about the rope made with three threads.....The idea is that while two threads together are fairly strong (the love between two partners), once you braid in the third strand (the love of both partners for Christ, who calls them to love and serve) -- well, that combination provides the strongest and most resilient rope. The homily says it much more eloquently, but that's the basic idea. Have fun!!
HW,
Your issue with the term "follow" reminded me of the words of my CPE supervisor -- "it's easy to be an admirer of Jesus Christ, it's a much greater challenge to be a follower of Jesus Christ". I wonder if being a disciple and being a follower of Christ is really all that different. If 'following' is taken in the sense of true commitment (ie dropping your nets and saying "yes" to Jesus' request to "Follow me"), then I'd say that sounds like discipleship. Just a few thoughts on a Sunday night.
Happy Memorial Day (I hope that's the right name for your celebration tomorrow -- our long weekend was last week -- Victoria Day). In any case, blessings from the North!
Blessings, SueCan
HW and SueCan,
As you ponder followers, disciples and admirers, an illustration came to mind - an old one to be sure! It deals with committment and involvement: In a ham and egg breakfast, the chicken was involved - the pig was committed.
On one hand, perhaps this is what our call is - to be committed and open to what comes, instead of watching from the sidelines, "throwing our two cents worth in."
blessings, sk in ca
Susan, what an incredible blessing to have church members ask for a wedding in the context of a Sunday service! Yesterday I baptized two 2-year-old boys in our morning service. The youngsters were as good as gold, and one little guy, Collin, came up to give me a hug - and he's usually shy:) That was a great blessing too! Re this Sunday's readings, I usually preach on the gospel, but also love to preach the OT. This story of Abram's journey of faith is one of my favourites. I will probably use both Genesis and Matthew's story, since they are all stories of faith - Abram's of obedience in faith, Jesus' faith in Matthew's potential, and Matthew's obedience, although his journey must have been really rough, especially at the outset. Revup, I like your idea of preaching Jesus' healing for our emotional, physical, and spiritual sicknesses on a regular basis. Of course, there is is healing in these readings, especially of Matthew as he makes tremendous changes in his lifestyle and in his morals. I have used the story of the woman with a hemorrhage as scriptural base for Jesus'healing yesterday and always. Thanks to all you marvellous students of the scriptures, for all I have learned from you so far! I really enjoy this forum!
OOps!!! I forgot to sign off:) what a marvellous "forgettory" I have:) My bit includes my baptizing two 2-year-olds yesterday!
Brenda in New Brunswick
Michael Middleton and Revup, How about the homeless and panhandlers, the unemployed, and others who wander from church to churc seeking help?
Brenda in New Brunswick
Susan and all: My husband and I were married during Sunday morning worship, and it was a wonderful experience. The lections that day were the story of the fall from Genesis and the incident when Jesus is accused of being in league with Beelzebul. Now that was a homiletical challenge! But the pastor, a fine preacher, did it all very well. I think fora wedding I would consider going with the Genesis text which is in some lectionaries about the call to Abraham. Maybe focus on how we don't know what unknown future journies God might be taking us on.... or use the "blessed to be a blessing to all nations" and widen their perspective from their own relationship to their part in society.... Regarding folks on the edge: our local paper is diong a series on kids who don't fit in -- you know, those that others make fun of, who dress funny, etc... In light of the Littleton thing, that's a very contemporary group of folks who are on the edge. Somebody asked about "I desire mercy, not sacrifice." This is a quote from Hosea 6. I think Jesus is saying it's not so important to sacrifice to follow the letter of the law, but rather, to pay attention to and treat with mercy those people who are needy. Moose
Moose, thanks regarding comments on sacrifice and mercy. I guess mercy would fit my social healing section in my physical, emotional, social and spiritual healing theme.
NOTE: My "exciting" baptism was two babies from Russia, adopted by a US couple in our church. I also baptized a single mother and her five kids, plus conducted her marriage to the kids'father, in jail. But that is another story.
revup
Friends, I am not sure about the homily SueCan was talking about, but here is one I've delivered on the same verse. Perhaps you will find it helpful
A ROPE MADE OF THREE CORDS
There is a verse in the book of Ecclesiates 4:12: "A rope made of three cords is hard to break." Perhaps this explains the popularity of 3-ply wool among knitters. For the interwoven three strands provide a strength far greater than one or even two! Have you noticed that it takes at least three to make most enterprises work? Businesses need an owner, employees and the customer. Schools need teachers, students and parents. Football games need a home team, a visiting team and an officiating team. Jesus worked his ministry like a rope made of three cords--himself, God and the disciples. In the reading from Matthew he insists that marriage is not just two people uniting their lives. It is what GOD has joined together. Christian marriage is a rope made of three cords--the husband, the wife and God. And, anytime one of the chords is frayed or cut, the rope is weakened considerably. ---------- and ------------ by standing here in this house of God in the presence of God's people, you declare to all of us here that you desire your marriage to be a rope made of three cords. May it always be that way. For, a rope made of three cords is hard to break. Amen.
Oops...the "rope" homily was submitted by Jeeva Sam in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada.
my husband wanted to get married during the Sunday service too, but i wanted to invite people who wouldn't be able to be there if we did. missed the chance i guess...
i love the story of the woman sneaking up behind Jesus - too afraid to even come up before him and he makes her whole, but i think i will shorten this to only deal with Matthew, but i really don't know where i'll go yet.
thanks to all. rachel
Although I prefer the Mark telling of the healing, I like to focus Jesus' ministry of listening. Jesus always listened to the underlying truth -- he is able to focus in spite of distractions. The woman who was bleeding could only focus on her own ailment...Jairus only on his daughter. Both of them defied the rules (unclean woman near a man, Jewish ruler near Jesus) because the only voice they could hear was their own extreme concerns. Jesus kept his focus through competing demands and the noise of the crowd, et al, to sense the need of the woman (in Mark--he sensed power leave him). So many different ways in which people were listening in this passage. Even Matthew listened, in spite of everything that would persuade him not to, and followed. When my second-oldest was a tiny girl, she would get frustrated if I spoke to anyone else when she was present. She would take my face between her tiny hands, turn it to her, put her face against mine, and hiss, "Listen,listen". I learned a lot from her -- and from this passage. If I had a wedding on this Sunday, with this lesson, I would emphasise that listening is perhaps the most important ministry we can offer each other -- certainly between spouses. Thanks for listening. JSW in IL
Jeeva Sam in Canada, Nice wedding homily. It'll adapt nicely for the couple I'm marrying Saturday, but for whom I had not a coherent homiletical thought yet. Joe at Zion
To Susan in San Pedro -- verse 13 is compelling: Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' For I have come to call not the righteous but the sinners.
What a wonderful charge to the newly-married! Go and learn about mercy -- learn what it is to be people who need each other. Learn what it is to love one another with Christ's love and take that love out into the world.
Preacherlady
Messages to my cyber colleagues:
To Nail-Bender in NC: on the sermon review page for last Sunday, 5/30, I've posted my sermon, in which I used your story about Cynthia. One of my parishioners requested an electronic copy of the story, so I emailed it to him, along with a credit line: "From Nail-Bender in NC, in a posting on the Desperate Preacher's Site for 5/30/99 (<http://desperatepreacher.com>). Hope this is O.K. with you--if not, please advise.
To Susan in San Pedro: My wife, who is beginning work on her dissertation for her Ph.D. from Claremont, is looking for a research site, and one of the areas she's considering is San Pedro. Do you know if there is/was an Italian immigrant community in San Pedro?
Doug in Riverside
Dear DPS Collegues; Thanks for all the great suggestions/support for the Sunday-wedding sermon! And just remembering that I COULD be preaching on "the Fall"/Beelzabub keeps things in perspective! I'll begin the "weaving" process tomorrow on the sermon and post the result on the review site when done: it's going to be quite a Sunday!
Doug in Riverside: Claremont is my alma mater! I'd love to hear more about your wife's project. And yes, I believe there is an Italian component to our seaport/immigrant population (many now third and fourth generation). Email me at church (st_peters@earthlink.net) and let's talk! Shalom, Susan in SanPedro
Speaking of weaving, this story of healing is one for which I have used the weaving imagery, although previously for Luke. Jesus is on his way to heal the rich man's daughter when he is interupted by the woman with the hemmorhage, read social outcast, to whom he attends before continuing on his way. It is a great story for identifying the powers that be as the warp, those long strong threads, and the needs of the dispossessed as the weft, the cord beaten into the warp in order to create the pattern. The evangelist is an experienced weaver, both here and in the Luke rendering. Julia Esquivel has an amazing poem called The Old Weaver, I believe, which I used when writing a sermon on the Luke passage, oh so many years ago... I will try to post another story in regard to this reading on the site elsewhere as its kinda long for here gretz
Sorry, I don't know where to post it. If you are interested, just e-mail me at gretta@westhill.net. It's a published reflection on the woman with the hemmorhage and the reality of that condition, "woven" into a quilting workshop and a unique experience of the presence of God. Blessings, gretz
I am a bit suprized that no one has yet talked about the phraze "made you well" the greek is "sodzo" or saved. The womans faith not only brought about her healing, but more importantly it plays a role in her salvation. I'm trying to flesh this out so that it might make sense for my congregation. Any thoughts?
Todd in NU
It is interesting that Matthew is called to discipleship by our Lord. There was really nothing good about him - by becoming a publican, he had betrayed his Jewish brothers and sisters by collecting taxes for the Romans. He was seen and understood by the "separated ones" as a sinner and unworthy of grace. Yet Jesus dines in his house and calls him. It is within the call that Matthew is raised up. Why does the church argue about the "immorality" when Jesus saw the secrets of our hearts and brought us home. No one of us is worthy to have been called to ministry .... what egos we must have to be Christ's men and women, or are we simply aware that without him we would be nothing, caught in our sins and unworthy to speak his name. Matthew came from a hated profession; many of my generation came to seminary to escape the draft and Vietnam. So what is the diffence? We need understand vocation as that which lifts us up and sets us free.
tom in ga
The second part of the reading is not found in the Episcopal Lectionary.
Doug in Riverside, It's fine and I am honored. Thank you. I hope she will touch your congregation as much as she has touched me.
Shalom, Nail-Bender in NC
Yes, REvUP, I have plans to speak about the "disenfranchised" and the fact that Jesus is radically inclusive. Since it is communion Sunday, my sermon text is: "Guess Whos Coming to Dinner." Let's face it, we would also have trouble with Jesus' inviting every Tom, Richard and Mary to lunch. And ESPECIALLY to the sacrament of communion! But hey! that's different! (Or is it?) How does our understanding of salvation (who is and who ain't) -- mesh with this radical Jesus who, though he doesn't wink at sin, does love and include the sinner with unconditional kind of inclusive love. (This question ought to get some of us going!) RevKK
I think I'm going to use as an illustration tables in high school cafeterias. Students gather in their groups or cliques. Some of the kids are outcasts and have to eat by themselves during lunch. Might be a good lead in as to table restrictions in Jesus' culture, especially for youth. Alienated and unpopular teenagers have been in the news alot lately. The story of the way in which Jesus called Matthew might have something to say to us as we come to terms with teen alienation.
Thank you, RevKK, you've given me my sermon! At this Sunday's service Iwill baptize a Mexican lady who speaks little English. I plan to do the baptism part, and all that I can, in my halting Spanish. (I am going to the Diocese of San Joaquin [Episcopal] in July to work on my Spanish and get polished up on how to celebrate the Eucharist and other sacraments en espanol.) We have a large Hispanic population in this small town, most of whom have come from Mexico to work in the chicken factory. Although other Hispanics have attended our church, off and on, this lady to be baptized, and her 3 children who will make their first communion the same day, will be the first to become official members. Our small church (average Sunday attendance 12-14) has a significant ministry to our Hispanic neighbors (I look for the day when we will say "with" rather than "to"), but of course this minisry is not universally supported, there being a couple who throw cold water whenever possible. I anticipate that they will not be overly pleased with the events of this Sunday. I do try to hear their concerns and not just brush off their fears, but....I can't fail to lead the church where I believe we are obviously called. Maybe I can use this Gospel, if not to turn these peoples' hearts, at least to still the fears of those who might be influenced by them...without being too obvious, I hope. What right have any of us to approach the table, after all, if not for God's grace? So wish me luck! Barbara in SW MO.
As Jesus went on from there, he saw a 'Coyote' who was getting money from some illegal immigrants he had just brought through the frontier with USA.
They were arguing because the 'Coyote' decided to charged them $4,000 instead of the $3,000 they had promised. He urged them to find a job quickly so they can pay him the rest of the money. He had not only betrayed his own people but also the American goverment who insist on keeping the illegal immigrants from coming through the frontier.
As the humble immigrants went away with fear in their eyes, pain in their hearts and a terrible debt to pay, Jesus came by the 'Coyote' and said "Sigueme". The 'Coyote' got up and followed him. While Jesus was eating tortilla and empanadas at the 'Coyote's' house, many of his friends and other illigal immigrants came and ate with him and his disciples. They began to sing and dance salsa and merengue to celebrate Jesus visit.
When the religious leaders and pastors of the area saw this, they asked his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with illegal immigrants and sinners?"
On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not teh healthy, who need a doctor, but the sick. but go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice'. And he gave them all the mercy he had...
Sorry. That was submitted by Latina. Please forgive my English.
To Latina, that was a wonderful way to begin the sermon. I believe that with your permission I would like to use it in my congregation. Also I am adding how Jesus "messes things up" and when he is messing things up, extraordinary things happen. There is comfort and healing for the illegal immigrants, for the coyotes and for the families of the 'mojados' who are without a hope. Jesus provides that hope! Anyways just some tuesday thoughts on the sermon. From Latino.
oops! still a rookie. I forgot to mention that I am in wyoming. Rev Latino
There is no way to do the work of Christ in this world without touching. I believe that God calls us to reach out and touch the lonely, the destitute, the widow, the orphan, the elderly, the sick and lame. Why do I feel that way: Because he touched me, oh he touched me. And oh the joy that floods my soul. Something happened within me, he touched me and he made me whole. from Sermon Illustrations, 1999 via revup
Re: wedding in worship, see sermon for this week at Worship that Works from the Episcopal Church.
Re: Who is Matthew? Thanks for the parable of the "Coyote." Can you tell us more about what a "coyote" is?
Sid Burgess, PC/USA, Birmnigham, AL
Re the second pericope in Mt's text: Although I was trained in seminary not to conflate different gospel versions of the same story, I found it helpful to look at Mark's version of this story (Mk 5:22-43), especially in light of exegetical and interpretive reflections by Ched Myers ("Binding the Strong Man," pp. 197-203; "Who Will Roll Away the Stone," pp. 287-293). Myers' comments on "honor culture" in first-century Palestine, and how Jesus' "social interaction breaks the rules and expectations of the conduct that obtained in Palestinian honor culture" (BSM, 199), are relevant to this week's discussion about the "disenfranchised."
"The most fundamental social principle in Mark's gospel is that those who have been 'first' must learn from those who have been 'last.' This is clearly dramatized in the story of a synagogue leader and a social outcast. Jesus interrupts his mission to heal the family of privilege in order to attend to the needs of someone suffering from triple disenfranchisement: female in a patriarchal system, unclean according to the dominant purity code, and destitute because of the medical system's exploitation of her illness (5:25f). But it is this woman who takes initiative for liberation, and the text makes it very clear that upon contact power flowed from Jesus to her (5:30). This concrete symbol of her 'empowerment' has been missed or dismissed by theologians. Yet Jesus commends her: 'Daughter, your faith has made you well' (5:34). By welcoming her into the new kindred community, Jesus confirms his redefinition of family. In her restored political body, this nameless and outcast woman becomes the 'daughter' at the center of the story.
"But there is a consequence to the wider body politic, for this is not the end of the episode. The daughter of privilege has died; the narrative is ruptured and threatens to collapse in tragedy (5:35). Jesus instructs the synagogue leader, who though powerful needs healing, to learn about faith from this woman, who though disenfranchised has been healed through her empowerment (5:36). But the response of the synagogue leader's household--despair (5:35), grief (5:38), ridicule (5:40)--symbolizes the negative reaction of the entitled. They do not believe there is enough room for both 'daughters' in the economy of social wholeness. Jesus, however, contends the synagogue daughter is only asleep--a symbol in Mark's narrative for incomprehension. His touch subsequently also restores her political body (5:41). The moral of the story: Only when everyone's political body is included can the ailing body politic be restored to health. But the 'last' come first" (WWRAS, pp. 288-9).
Myers then goes on to interpret the "moral of the story" as a challenge to overcome "the legacy of racism in California" (p. 288).
(By the way, I highly and enthusiastically recommend Ched Myers' books.)
Doug in Riverside
I'm taking a different approach to this week's lectionary text. I'm preaching for a nominating committee so any feed back you can give will be greatly appreciated!
Mat 9:9-13,18-26 "Welcome"
- A new African American church has begun in our Presbytery. At their service they talked about this new church as being a bride where her train sweeps the area for the hopeless, the adict, the abused... They are being truly hospitable. - Jesus was hospitable when he called Matthew out of darkness into the light, in much the way this new church deams to bring light to the hurting in its' community. Matthew followed. - Jesus' reaching out is an example of how we as a church are called to reach out - In the midst of searching and reaching out to the un desirable of our community we need also make sure we are safe. - The Pharisees were following their belief system of who, what, and when unclean people affect the community. We too stay away from the outcasts. We tell our children not to play with some children. We tell them when we don't like their friends. The people we associate with do impact our behaviors. After about 10 the friends our children assoiate with are more influential than the parents. We too try to limit our children's exposure to the "unsavory". Hospitality is only extended to those people we think appropriate. - The woman was unclean, no wonder she only touched the fringe - she was afraid of the response if Jesus was made unclean by her. - Jesus' hospitality made her clean - The leader of the Synagogue reached out to Jesus. He requested Jesus' gift of healing for his daughter and Jesus honored his request. - Each of these stories breaks socially accepted rules. - Each of these stories invites the unaccepted into a fuller life. - But perhaps the most important point in these stories is that regarless of the circumstance these people had faith and it was their faith that washed them clean from abusive behaviors, physical destress, and death. It was Jesus spirit of hospitality that brought new life to these people. - We too are able to receive God's hospitality. God wellcomes us no matter where we have come from, what we have done, who we have been, or why we want to return to God. - The communion service we are about to participate in is at God's invitation. The house has been cleaned, the dinner prepared, and now we only have to wait for those with faith to come in. Like the church that wants to sweep the community clean, inviting even the most undesirable, God desires to sweep us up with the bridal train into the joy, healing, and cleansing presence of new life. - Will you accept the invitation? The table is waiting for you to take your place among the guests.
For the childrens sermon I'm doing to tell them I'm a visitor and ask them if they know what hospitality means. Hospitality means welcome. How do they welcome people into their lives and homes? Then talk about the welcome we must always give in their church and how important they are for helping make people feel welcome. After that we will go out into the congregations to shake hands and welcome one another.
Again, feedback very appreiciated (spelling doesn't count, does it?) Myra
I'm taking a different approach to this week's lectionary text. I'm preaching for a nominating committee so any feed back you can give will be greatly appreciated!
Mat 9:9-13,18-26 "Welcome"
- A new African American church has begun in our Presbytery. At their service they talked about this new church as being a bride where her train sweeps the area for the hopeless, the adict, the abused... They are being truly hospitable. - Jesus was hospitable when he called Matthew out of darkness into the light, in much the way this new church deams to bring light to the hurting in its' community. Matthew followed. - Jesus' reaching out is an example of how we as a church are called to reach out - In the midst of searching and reaching out to the un desirable of our community we need also make sure we are safe. - The Pharisees were following their belief system of who, what, and when unclean people affect the community. We too stay away from the outcasts. We tell our children not to play with some children. We tell them when we don't like their friends. The people we associate with do impact our behaviors. After about 10 the friends our children assoiate with are more influential than the parents. We too try to limit our children's exposure to the "unsavory". Hospitality is only extended to those people we think appropriate. - The woman was unclean, no wonder she only touched the fringe - she was afraid of the response if Jesus was made unclean by her. - Jesus' hospitality made her clean - The leader of the Synagogue reached out to Jesus. He requested Jesus' gift of healing for his daughter and Jesus honored his request. - Each of these stories breaks socially accepted rules. - Each of these stories invites the unaccepted into a fuller life. - But perhaps the most important point in these stories is that regarless of the circumstance these people had faith and it was their faith that washed them clean from abusive behaviors, physical destress, and death. It was Jesus spirit of hospitality that brought new life to these people. - We too are able to receive God's hospitality. God wellcomes us no matter where we have come from, what we have done, who we have been, or why we want to return to God. - The communion service we are about to participate in is at God's invitation. The house has been cleaned, the dinner prepared, and now we only have to wait for those with faith to come in. Like the church that wants to sweep the community clean, inviting even the most undesirable, God desires to sweep us up with the bridal train into the joy, healing, and cleansing presence of new life. - Will you accept the invitation? The table is waiting for you to take your place among the guests.
For the childrens sermon I'm doing to tell them I'm a visitor and ask them if they know what hospitality means. Hospitality means welcome. How do they welcome people into their lives and homes? Then talk about the welcome we must always give in their church and how important they are for helping make people feel welcome. After that we will go out into the congregations to shake hands and welcome one another.
Again, feedback very appreiciated (spelling doesn't count, does it?) Myra
We all know that before Matthew became a disciple, he was a publican.
Has anyone out there ever heard who he was or what he did, before he became a publican?
People don't just choose that sort of job. What life events led him to his current employment at the time he met Jesus? Who were his parents? Where did he grow up?
Would anyone care to speculate? Thanks. Rev Brad in MO
What is the connection between the first part of the gospel and the last?
I got to thinking about Jesus' words: "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." "Righteous" here might mean "self-sufficient". The "leader of the synagogue" may have been a self-made man. He was an acknowledged leader, one admired and respected by all. Yet, suddenly, he recognized his need.
The woman who had suffered from hemorrhages for twelve years had no problem with self-sufficiency. She had long recognized her need.
In their need, both heard Jesus' call; both received help in their time of need.
Tom in Winnipeg
Tom in ga is the only one who touched on a an area that is related to my question. Apparently, the second part of the reading is not found in the Episcopal Lectionary, yet it is in the Revised Common Lectionary. Why are these two passages included in the Revised Common Lectionary? What are their connection?
Someone talked about the inclusivity of Jesus toward the outcast, but it's not connecting for me. Anyone?
Brandon in CA
To Todd in NU
You asked about the phrase: "made you well". Could it be the woman approached with two active beliefs flowing within her? The belief that if she could just touch Him, she would be better physically. The second belief that, after listening to him and following him, she wants to be apart of what Jesus is talking about. After being touched, Jesus saw her thoughts, honored her thoughts and made her well.
Verse 25 is where I am leaning to preaching - "he went in and took the girl by the hand, and she got up." God can lift us up, no matter the condition.
RevDave, Wasilla,AK
Okay, okay! I think I got a thread. It came to me today while I was meditating and praying over this lectionary passage. The connection of the two separate passages has to do with faith.
Matthew left everything behind by faith. It doesn't matter if he knew Jesus before or not. To actually leave everything behind takes faith. The rich man came to Jesus in faith, believing that Jesus could heal his daughter. The woman who has hemorrhages sought to touch Jesus because of her faith.
Now what Jesus said at the dinner has to do with faith, I don't know yet. But at least, I've got a start here and I was worried for a while there.
Brandon in CA
02 JUN 99 Thanks for the image of the H.S. Cafeteria (well, I guess "thanks"). The rule is (I have young children): "Don't associate with the immoral, bad-mouthed, poor-reputation, etc. girls and boys." This isn't the first time Jesus "broke that rule". Now, we have to be careful about encouraging children to associate with those of ill-repute, but the breadth of Christ's invitation and his first hand commitment to even (especially) those in need of a physician is a challenge to the rest of us. Peter in CA
Dear Myra,
Spelling doesn't count unless you give them a copy of your sermon. (You might want to do this, since most of us 'zone' in and out during a sermon --- unless, of course, we are the one preaching!)
I like your approach and focus on hospitality. My only thought might be to simplify -- fewer points, powerfully illustrated. Perhaps. (I am wrong about half the time....) Anyhow, sounds good to me, and love the welcoming extended to the congregation during the kids' sermon.
Break a leg (or a tonsil, or whatever it is we break).
HW in HI
The lection presents us with the two parts--Jesus calling Matthew, and then being summoned to heal jairus' daughter, etc. A thought: which is tougher to believe? That Jesus can heal a bleeding woman unknowingly and even raise someone from the dead, or that like Matthew we will actually leave our careers to follow where He calls us? --John from Lorain
Hi all, thanks for all of your insights. While I was reading about the marginalized and ostrasized or otherwise on the outskirts of our society, this story came to mind. A friend of mine recently sent this to me. I was appropriately humbled....
RAP in OH
Don't judge a book by its cover...
His name was Bill. He had wild hair, wore a T-shirt with holes in it, jeans and no shoes. This was literally his wardrobe for his entire four years of college. He was brilliant. Kind of esoteric and very, very bright. He became a Christian while attending college.
Across the street from the campus was a well-dressed, very conservative church. They wanted to develop a ministry to the students, but were not sure how to go about it. One day Bill decided to go there. He walked in with no shoes, jeans, his T-shirt, and wild hair. The service had already started and so Bill started down the aisle looking for a seat. The church was completely packed and he couldn't find a seat. People were really looking a bit uncomfortable, but no one said anything. Bill got closer and closer and closer to the pulpit and, when he realized there were no seats, he just squatted down right on the carpet. (Although perfectly acceptable behavior at a college fellowship, this had never happened in this church before!)
By now the people were really uptight, and the tension in the air was thick. About this time, the minister realized that from way at the back of the church, a deacon was slowly making his way toward Bill. Now the deacon was in his eighties, had silver-gray hair, and a three-piece suit. A godly man, very elegant, very dignified, very courtly. He walked with a cane and, as he started walking toward this boy, everyone was saying to themselves that you couldn't blame him for what he was going to do. How could you expect a man of his age and background to understand some college kid on the floor?
It took some time for the man to reach the boy. All eyes were focused on him. And then they saw this elderly man drop his cane on the floor. With great difficulty he lowered himself and sat down next to Bill and worshiped with him so he wouldn't be alone.
Everyone choked up with emotion. When the minister gained control, she said, "What I'm about to preach, you will never remember. What you have just seen, you will never forget. Be careful how you live. You may be the only Bible some people will ever read."
Susan in San Pedro:
How cool to do a wedding on Sunday with the Eucahrist. My Husband Rob and I will be celebrating our 22nd wedding anniversary on Friday June 4th, and so we will probably be renewing our vows on Sunday June 6th during the birthday blessing time. I don't believe that I will be preaching this Sunday, but was looking at and pondering the lections just in case. Like HW in HI, the rector (Hartshorn) preached mightily last week on discipleship, so I was looking for a different angle. What kept speaking to me, was that Jesus came to call sinners. People who weren't perfect and didn't have it all together. People just like me! And as all of us who are either married or in committed relationships can attest to, over the years, there will be lots of times when we will have a break down in our relationships and we will hurt our partners. This is part of the reality, that I always try to impart in my wedding sermons. But the good news is God knows we aren't perfect and God forgives us, and calls on us to turn and repent. I really like how Philip Yancy puts it in "What's so amazing about Grace?": "There is nothing we can do for God to love us more that God loves us right now, and there is also, notheing we can do for God to love us any less than God does right now"! Likewise, isn't that the real work in a relationship? To be willing to be the bearer (incarnation) of God's love and forgiveness with our partner? A tie-in to the Gospel could be a reference to the Prayers in the wedding service (BCP 429), especially: "Give them grace, when they hurt each other, to recognize and acknowledge their fault, and to seek each others forgiveness and yours," as well as already mentioned in another posting above, "Make their life together a sign of Christ's love to this sinful and broken world, that unity may overcome estrangement, forgiveness heal guilt, and joy conquer despair." Since, in the Episcopal lectionary we have the Hosea reading instead of Genesis, another possible tie-in would be to refer to how God is a "jealous lover," one to whom we must commit ourselves and forsake all other gods (cf. the wedding vows). And yet later in Hosea, we see that despite Israel's infidelity, God forgives and actually lures God's beloved back into relationship. I am especially struck by the love poetry of Hosea 2:14-23. Check it out!
Blessings,
Kathy in Orange
P.S. Susan, I had to dole out some of that forgiveness I spoke about to my husband of 22 years when he reformatted the harddrive recently and failed to make copies of my e-mail addresses and web bookmarks, as well as some of my wordperfect documents. Consequently, I no longer have your e-mail address. Could you send it to me at rkmaken@pacbell.net or kathy@saint-augustine.org?
P.S.S. HW in HI. Where is your church? My husband and I are going to be in Kauai and the Big Island in August. Don't know if we will be anywhere near you? To reply, see my e-mail address above.
Hi All: I am looking for an illustration or humorous story dealing with faith not being an easy street. I have one about a man who is in a flood and who refuses help three times because he says that God will take care of him. When he drowns and meets God in heaven he asks God what happened. I thought you were going to take care of me he says. God replies I sent 2 boats and a helicopter. What more do you want me to do?
Hi All: I am looking for an illustration or humorous story dealing with faith not being an easy street. I have one about a man who is in a flood and who refuses help three times because he says that God will take care of him. When he drowns and meets God in heaven he asks God what happened. I thought you were going to take care of me he says. God replies I sent 2 boats and a helicopter. What more do you want me to do?
Hi All: I am looking for an illustration or humorous story dealing with faith not being an easy street. I have one about a man who is in a flood and who refuses help three times because he says that God will take care of him. When he drowns and meets God in heaven he asks God what happened. I thought you were going to take care of me he says. God replies I sent 2 boats and a helicopter. What more do you want me to do?
Hi All: I am looking for an illustration or humorous story dealing with faith not being an easy street. I have one about a man who is in a flood and who refuses help three times because he says that God will take care of him. When he drowns and meets God in heaven he asks God what happened. I thought you were going to take care of me he says. God replies I sent 2 boats and a helicopter. What more do you want me to do?
Hi all: OOpps Hit the wrong button: I have used the illustration about the drowned man before so I do not want to use it again . Jim in Manitoba
Hi all: OOpps Hit the wrong button: I have used the illustration about the drowned man before so I do not want to use it again . Jim in Manitoba
Welcome, Jim in Manitoba! Welcome, Jim in Manitoba! Welcome, Jim in Manitoba! We are a very loving and accepting lot here! (here, there and everywhere as the case really is.)
Brandon in CA -- Thank you for the connection of faith being in all three healings. revup
Yes, I got it! All three healings took place through faith, as Brandon stated and I seconded. And Jesus even showed faith in the "tax collectors and sinners." We need to have enough faith In Jesus and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit that any disenfranchised people can be healed physically, emotionally, socially and/or spiritually through the "touch" of the Master!
Oops, that was revup again, that got it.
It was a Friday night. I would venture, not much different from most other Friday nights. It was that night that somehow seems to bind the working world together, connecting us across even social-economic barriers, tying us all together in a collective sigh that proclaims the end of the work-week and perhaps signaling the embrace of a bit of rest, a change of pace, or at least a different venue. Friday night.
Yet for our family, this would not be a typical Friday night. No, this was a night of photographs and keepsakes, a night for celebration and the coming together of our extended family. For tonight, was the night of passage, a coming of age. Tonight, Joy, our daughter, would walk across the stage with 300 of her classmates, and with them, she would receive her high-school diploma. And though for our family, it was a special occasion for no other reason than that, there was another story that unfolded on this night. A quite remarkable story which should be told. For you see, Rodney Cortez Flowers received his degree.
Rodney Cortez Flowers, a Beta Club member, a member of the high school football team, a young, vivacious African-American man with the world before him. Rodney Cortez Flowers received his degree. Now this would not seem to be an exceptional occurrence except for this -
On a fall Friday night, two short years earlier, Rodney was on the playing field, running, and hitting, and sweating. Like so many times before, the huddle broke, the quarterback called the signals, the football was snapped. Young men, equipped all the traditional armor of this sport, crashed together with grunts and growls, one team seeking to advance the ball and the other seeking to push them backwards. The play ended and the young warriors pulled themselves from the ground. All except for one - Rodney Cortez Flowers did not get up. Nor would he get up the next day, or the next, or the next, for Rodney's neck was broken. In one brief moment, a young man's life was forever altered and Rodney soon learned that he was never ... to walk ...again.
But on this Friday night, Rodney Cortez Flowers, with the help of his mother and a metal walker pulled himself up on that stage and slowly, ever so slowly, one inch at a time, made his way across that stage to accept his diploma. For 15 minutes, as his class mates and indeed the entire audience, cheered him on, as we all stood there with tears on our faces, lifting our voices in a roar that shook the very rafters of the huge auditorium, Rodney walked toward the table where the diplomas were presented.
When he reached the table, the auditorium became silent and he was given the microphone. Now one would think that to have gone through a tragedy like that, a person would be deeply embittered and wholly angry, especially ... a young athletic teenager. Yet, for the next few moments he thanked his class, thanked his family, thanked his pastor, and thanked God for bringing him to this place at this time. I thought, "What a remarkable statement." But then, Rodney, broken and damaged, had done the thing which he should never have been able to do - Rodney walked across that stage and graduated with his classmates.
And if I go to a thousand more graduations, I don't believe I will ever hear a graduation address concerning faith and the human condition, the promise of this community called church, and a Christ who refuses to allow us to suffer alone, spoken as well as the proclamation which Rodney Cortez Flowers made when he walked across that stage. For Rodney had touched the cloak of Jesus, and had healed us all.
Shalom my friends, Nail-Bender in NC
Latina, my beautiful sister, I just want to thank you for the wonderful stories you share with us. I am always deeply moved by your insight. Thank you for bringing the REALNESS of the incarnate one to us. I am so grateful that we might sojourn together, at least in a little piece of time and space.
Shalom my sister, Nail-Bender in NC
With WWJD a recent fad, a sermon title for this passage came to mind: "Jesus Would Do What????" Many people have no idea whatsoever what Jesus would do in the life situations they come across. Jesus would actually invite "those" people to dinner... Jesus would be near "discusting", "immoral", "criminal", "weird", "stupid", "rude", "stuck-up", and "obnoxious" people. What would you do if you ran across a lice-infested, Aids infected, crack-smoking, foul-smelling, nasty-talking, ugly, black, lesbian prostitute who was suspected of murder? (The world would showcase her on "Cops".) Jesus would invite her to dinner.
I'll be real blunt here. I've been promoting a benefit concert to help victims of domestic violence. I'm so socially concervative that I felt very nervous and uncomfortable when I walked into a bar to give them a poster. I fact, I ended up going into only one bar. What would Jesus have done? Hung out in all the bars until ministry and healing took place, of course.
The challenge is opening the eyes of the congregation to the fact that we DON'T do what Jesus would do!
Jesus challenged the relgious leaders of his day. I have trouble challenging the Staff-Parish Committee. Jesus healed those who most wouldn't even touch. I have trouble with people who haven't bathed in a while. Jesus invited those in society's lowest places to follow him and to dine with him. I have trouble even being seen with some local "undesirables".
Actually, I'm just scratching the surface of the problem - the gap between what Jesus would do and what we do.
DN in AZ
DN in AZ,
Ahhhhh, my friend, so you have met the Christ who is not the Christ of the comfortable. Perhaps, in the brokeness of the outcasts, we might find our own brokeness, our own immorality, our own criminality, our own disgusting and dirty nature. We might find that we are not very different from those who are the "other." And perhaps, just perhaps, we might find that even in our own pride and sinfulness, Jesus will even allow us to come to the banquet table of the "other" that in the end, there will no longer be an other.
Thank you for the honesty of your story.
Peace and Grace to you my friend, as you too, touch the cloak of Christ.
Nail-Bender in NC
This is my first time to write even though I've been visiting DPS for several months. I enjoy these discussions very much. You folks have fascinating ideas which stimulate my own thinking. I want to preach on the Genesis scripture this week. I really need some more input over on that site. Will some of you take a look over there and give some input. With thanks to God for this wonderful site and thanks to all of you contributors. VA in NY
Brandon in CA
I don't like the connection between the two passages. I think it has to do with the unrighteousness of Matthew (for being a hired hand of the Romans) and the unrighteousness of being a woman. I wouldn't go there for any amount of money!
It seems to me that the second part of the passage gets in the way of the calling of the Apostles which goes on next week as well. Who is it that our Lord calls? What are the creditals? Do you need a formal seminary education? Do you need to come from high society? Do you need to be someone who obeyes the law? Do you need
to be someone who separates themselves from sinners? What does it mean to be merciful? Why doesn't God require sacrifice?
I plan to stay with the Call .... who are we in relationship to Christ? Why do sinners hear and the righteous remain deaf? When is the Gospel "good" news? I think most of us hear the gospel as "no news" or as a "past parchment" and not for now. How do we open the ears of the people? Our how do we give aid to the Holy Spirit
to open the hearing of those who are deaf? It seems to me that our people are looking for the wrong things? What do you think?
Tom in GA
I am by choice just preaching on verses 9 -13, as i don't think i can do all these verses justice in one sermon. when i think about Matthew, the tax collector, i am reminded of a friend's relocation papers. This person said their call was to include the "unchurched and the dechurched". I had never heard dechurched before, but i encounter these people most often. Matthew, i think, was one of these. "dechurched"
i am reminded of the person in drug rehab who said, "i could never go back to my church now - not with what all i've done." How do we convince them they are accepted? i've encountered so many who've been hurt, ostracized by their churches. one woman in my congregation was abused by male preachers. she feels safe now after so many years away, but there are so many out there - dechurched.
another example i thought of after Latina's wonderful example was the man who wrote "Amazing Grace" (john Newton wasn't it? - i will check on myself) he was a slave trader, and encountered Christ, and how his life was changed!
i want to bring in transformation too - Christ calls us, and transforms us. as one man said from sinner to saint. and i would add "saint" isn't sticking one's nose up and being better than others, but is loving others no matter who they are.
may God speak powerfully through us all this week! - rachel
Where is the connection between the first part of the gospel reading and the last? There are a number of possibilities, but here's where I'm going with it: Everyone in these interwoven stories is going outside the bounds of what's acceptable. Jesus invites a lacky of the oppressors to become a disciple. The "unclean" woman dares to touch Jesus' hem, breaking both cleanliness and gender taboos. The leader of the synagogue goes outside the system to ask Jesus for help. And finally, Jesus breaks the "laws" of nature, bringing a dead girl back to life...all in the name of love (mercy). "I desire mercy, not sacrifice."
Dan in De Soto, MO
Yes.....not only what WOULD Jesus do, but what WILL Jesus do for those who maitain that Jesus lives and moves and breathes through his people today in an incarnate way...
What WOULD Jesus do puts it in the past tense......what WILL Jesus do is alive in the here and now....
DP in DL
We don't have a right to withhold God's blessing, only to give it. Yet Jairus has withheld the blessing of God from the woman with the issue of blood for 12 years. (The same length of time his own daughter has been alive). Jairus, as a synagogue official has the task of temple administration. He would determine who is allowed in. He determined that the woman was 'unclean' and therefore to be excluded. Dilemma time. He asks Jesus to touch his daughter. But his daughter is dead. To touch a dead body would make Jesus unclean. He is asking Jesus to make himself unclean. As Jesus journeys to her the woman reaches out and touches his garment. Specifically that portion of the c garment which represents the first five books of the scriptures. She seeks to touch the blessing of God. Jesus calls her 'daughter'. The same greek word used by Jairus in reference to his daughter. Jairus would have been with Jesus when this happened. He hears Jesus give the same status to this woman whom he has rejected for 12 years as his own privileged daughter. They are both daughters of the kingdom. Jairus now knows he can never again call unclean what God has called clean. He can never again reject those who Jesus accepts. I wonder what new shape his role at the temple took on after this encounter. He discovered what blessed to be a blessing is all about.(Link with Genesis 12) Ian in Melton, Australia.
We have heard WWJD, of course What Would Jesus Do? But someone has brought to my attention that it should also be WWJHMD. Or, What Would Jesus Have ME Do? Revamuffin
I'm looking for a Litany titled "The Promise of Women from Scripture" from the 1989 Consultation on UM Clergywomen in Dallas, Texas. It begins: And what is faith? Faith is going to an unseen land. . . Then it names several women, including Sari and the ways in which they stepped out in faith. I've had the litany for years, but now, when I want to use it, I can't find it. Any help would be appreciated.
RevJan
Lots of good posts again this week; but I could hardly get past the first, and its reference to 9.24..."and they laughed at him."
I laugh at God sometimes. I'll bet you do too, if your honest with yourself. Somtimes it's all we can do...either laugh, or cry, as the saying goes.
And we're in good company. Genesis introduces Abram and Sarai, that crazy old couple who are, well really OLD to be going off only God knows where in the desert, after hearing voices. And I can hear Sarah laughing already when she get the news about Isaac...
And those laughing crowds...who wouldn't laugh at such a thing, when they realized his intent. I'll bet Jesus even had a smile on his face, perhaps even a chuckle, knowing. Sure, he sees their grief, and he knows they laugh because humor--the acceptance and recognition of the ridiculous, the impossible, the absurd--lifts people (us too, I presume) from that weight. He understands such things.
And how foolish we/they are, really, seeking permanence in the impermanent, and visa versa. Is that why the crowd laughs? Because to them, Jesus is being rediculous? Maybe so. Then there's that other old saying about laughter being the best medicine. "We're all a little ridiculous --and all the more so when we forget it." (Laurence Boldt, in "Zen Soup").
There's a sermon in here somewhere, which I'm still trying to ferret out. But I got as far as writing this responsive call to worship for Sunday...
In the beginning, God created everything; then God said it was good. And then God had a good laugh. In our beginnings, we are created good; then come our appetites, our egos, and the gods of success and achievement; And then God has a good laugh. In the beginning of faith, we start to really see; it IS all good. And then God has a good laugh, along with us. Yet we stumble through life, blind to the cosmic punch lines, serious, bloated, and all too self-important. And God keeps on laughing, hoping we’ll hear that music. And then we reach the end, amidst lament and tears, sorrows and regrets. And then God teaches us to laugh. And we wonder, why all the tears? So what are we waiting for? Let’s start laughing with God. Let’s start now. For life is meant to teach us true joy.
--Barry in OH
Well, it was responsive when I pasted it in, at least. Duh.
--Barry again
DN from AZ, and RAP from OH: Special thanks to each of you for your reflections and for the story of Bill in church. My evening congregation is very small, and very conservative, so I'll use that story, if you don't mind.
DN, I really identify with your quandry regarding WWJD. If we're honest, we're all right there with you.
This week's entries are so great--I love it when we wrestle with the text, instead of with each other.
Blessings, Dot
Brother Barry,
Thanks for the great entry. Oh yes, laughter. You know, so often I look at all our entries, at how serious we all take ourselves, the heated disagreements, and I think, "God must really get a big chuckle out of how silly we look." We all need to "have eyes to see" the cosmic punch lines along the way, don't we?
This past week at this place, we had our first youth work team of the summer. What a joyous experience! Watching the interaction of the kids, the community they formed with one another and with the folks for whom they worked. Addressing the heart-break of poverty, not with frowns or clinched teeth, but with open hands, hearts, and laughter -- their boom-boxes blasting and the exclamation of their voices, scurrying about on the work sites to the beat of life.
And like the healing of the woman prior to going to the ruler's home, like the eating with those who are on the outside, these beautiful youth offered the fullness of justice and the abundance of life to the marginalized - not so much that the Kingdom was proclaimed to the ones who live on the edge of life, but that they themselves could be transformed. But who would have thought that it was they who lived in nice homes, they who drove the newest vehicles, they who had everything -- who would have thought that it was they who would be transformed!!? Ridiculous! Ahhhhh, the cosmic joke of the Kingdom, the music of God.
Could it be that Jesus first had to eat with the outsider, first had to heal the woman who was beyond the community, first had to touch those who were the outcasts, bringing them wholeness and life, before he could ever offer life to the one who apparently had it all? Could it be that we "who are full now" must first live for those who aren't, bringing them wholeness, before we ourselves can be whole? Ridiculous! The hilarity of a Kingdom pun. Let the laughter flow. Let the music play. Let our communal voices explode in the joy!
Again brother Barry, I am glad we can laugh together.
Shalom, Nail-Bender in NC
Someone asked about "faith has made you well / has saved you" -- remember that the Greek word also translates "whole". It has less to do with physical OR spiritual healing, and more to do with total, overall "shalom" health.
Blessings - Kay
I plan to tell my own story this week, as we look at Matthew's call. Isn't it amazing that Jesus called and Matthew went. Short and sweet. Isn't that how it is for us (tongue firmly planted in cheek)? It took many years for me to respond to God's call completely. I'm being ordained next Sunday. This will be my opportunity to talk about the difficulty I had believing God was calling me when I was young and living a lifestyle that seemed incompatable with ministry. 1973 was a long time ago. Now I'm ready. Oh I responded, it was just a little step at a time. Jesus calls--do we jump up and follow? or are we a little slower than that?
Just a little aside: I'm serving the church where I grew up. I know the grace of God because it has been shown to me by this loving congregation that accepts my ministry despite having known me through all of those rougher years. Praise God! Pam in San Bernardino
Hi all.
Thanks for your thoughts regarding being Called by Jesus. This coming Tuesday will be the 10th anniversary of my Ordination. I love it when sermons "write themselves!"
One other thought. Henri Nouwen wrote about the second part of this reading. He said (I'm paraphrasing) that minstry is what happens in the interruptions. Matthew at work, interrupted by Jesus. Jesus teaching, interrupted by Jairus. Jesus going to Jairus' home, interrupted by the woman.
You and I would probably go home very frustrated by this day of interruptions! "I couldn't get a THING done today!", we would explode to our spouse.
Lord, open our eyes, ears, hands and hearts to your holy, life-giving interruptions!
Rick in Canada, eh?
I've enjoyed everyone's perspective on the passage. The focus of my sermon will be the authority of Jesus commanding wholeness. In this passage I'm seeing Matthew, tax collectors, sinners, the dead daughter and the woman with the flow all ceremonially "unclean." Yet, as Jesus responds to them he is not made unclean in his interactions with these. The authority of who he is makes them "clean." Yet, more than "clean." As posted earlier he brings shalom into their life.
How do we respond to this in holy communion? Ideas? --PK
I've enjoyed everyone's perspective on the passage. The focus of my sermon will be the authority of Jesus commanding wholeness. In this passage I'm seeing Matthew, tax collectors, sinners, the dead daughter and the woman with the flow all ceremonially "unclean." Yet, as Jesus responds to them he is not made unclean in his interactions with these. The authority of who he is makes them "clean." Yet, more than "clean." As posted earlier he brings shalom into their life.
How do we respond to this in holy communion? Ideas? --PK
It's going to be quite a Sunday. So far we have a wedding, baptism, and an ordination, all taking place as we gather for Sunday worship!
I received this story with the note that it was written by "some of the ministers" of Christ lutheran Church, Norcross GA. Hope it's not too long to be included here. ---from Barbara in SW MO
One day a man named Matthew -- a tax collector, a high ranking employee of the IRS, a man despised by the people because he cheated them to make his livelihood -- was sitting by the collection house. The prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee came by and said to him, "Matthew--let's do lunch. I'll have my girl call your girl and we'll set something up--sasy around two-ish?"
Matthew was thrilled--a free meal with a visiting celebrity, this was too good to be true! so he anxiously awaited his secretary's announcement that Jesus was calling from his donkey-phone. In short order arrangements were made--a restaurant at the esplanade--no fast-food fare for this twosome. Matthew times his drive so that he would arrive exactly at 2 pm--he didn't want to appear to be too excited, or then Jesus would see right through him and have the upper hand.
As always, Matthew was dressed for success. His wing-tipped sandals were spit shined. His beige colored toga was neatly tailored and pressed--and was secured by a fashionably tied rope across his midsection. Of course it was the latest power-color! As Matthew parked his JMW (Jerusalem motor works), he smugly congratulated himself on his good fortune.
He would show the people--the common, ordinary smucks whom he cheated day in and day out--nice guys finish last! Only the strong survive--only the rich and famous and the young, upwardly mobile--get asked to lunch by big shots like Jesus. As he strode across the parking lot, Matthew fantasized what lunch would be like--just the 2 of them he and Jesus. They'd begin with drinks. Maybe he'd skip the booze and settle for a glass of sparkling well water with a twist of lime.
Then would come the appetizer--he'd follow Jesus' lead when ordering--he wouldn't want to appear too conspicuous as if to take advantage of the occasion and generosity of his host. No doubt their conversation would begin with the usual social amenityies--but would soon turn to Matthew's favorite subject--business! The corporate lifestyle! Probably Jesus had heard something of his business moxie and had come to pick his brain regarding the latest tax shelter.
He understood that Jesus' chief investment strategist--a guy named Judas--was not known for his careful, well-though out investments. One of his latest schemes--gone by the wayside--was a religious theme park--complete with a hotel and conferencecenter. There was even mention of a talk show and line of cosmetics; can you imagine!
Anyway, upon entering the restaurant, Matthew was greeted by a cheerful hostess. She asked for his reservation--to which he replied was in the name of "Godson"--Jesus Godson. "Ah, yes," she'd answered. "Now everyone has arrived." Matthew was escorted throught he main restaurant towards what appeared to be a private dining room. Even before arriving at the door, he could hear the sound of loud, boisterous laughter and joyful conversation inside the room. Surely he must be in the wrong place--surely Jesus wouldn't have invited him to a party whithout telling him that it was a party they were attending?
I am a busy man, Matthew thought. I have no time for such nonsense, and I was so counting on having Jesus all to myself and for everyone to see me, Matthew, with Jesus. That would really give them something to talk about. Maybe then they'd see me in a different light. Hob-nobbing with the religious eleite! I'm not really a bad person; so I do inflate the taxes a little bit and pocket the extra. But Rome puts so omuch pressure on me! One year I do extra good, turn some heavy dudty revenue. the next year I find Caesar has doubled my quota. A man's gotta make a living somehow.
Curiosity won out, and Matthew obediently followed the hostess through the heavy wooden door of the dining room. No was hwas he prepared for what he saw. There was Jesus, a smiling, radiant Jesus, sitting at the head of a huge banquet table. All around him, beside him, behind him, were Matthew's fellow tax collectors, and there were prostitutes, ex-convicts, and known felons who were only one step ahead of the law. There were sick people--disgustingly sick people suffering from dreaded illness like leprosy, tuberculosis, syphilis, AIDS. There were street people--dirty, stinking, homeless wanderers--he wondered how they even got past the front door, much less why they were here in the company of one such as Jesus.
It was as if someone had taken a garbage can full of society's trash and dumped it right here at Matthew's feet--and it suddenly dawned on him, shining tho\rough his disgust and distate at what he was witnessing, that he, Matthew, in some crazy, insane way, actually fit right in with the guest lits.
Then Jesus' eyes met his. His compassionate gaze pierced Matthew's heart, for Jesus had touched his very soul. The room was dead silent. Everybody knew instinctively what Matthew was thining--"How can you lower yorself to eat and have fellowship with these people? They are below you, they are the world's rejects--they are scum, and you are hurting your cause, casting a stain on the image of the church!"
Still looking at Matthewe, Jesus answered the unspoken question saying, "Matthew, my brother, Matthew, it's not the healthy people who need the doctor, but the sick. Now you listen and learn the meaning of this verse: What I want is mercy, not sacrifice. For I didn't come into this world to call the good folks, but to save the sinners. Follow me, Matthew, and I will make you whole."
About that time, a smile broke out on Matthew's face and he began to laugh--loud, side-splitting laughter. And one by one the people around him started laughing--the downtrodden, the disposed of, the disinherited, the disenfranchised, the diseased, the dregs of society--were laughing with Matthew and Jesus. And the room was filled with a celebration of new life. For in Christ they had found acceptance, affirmation, and love--yes, even love--which the world had denied them for so long.
Now you run along and figure out what this means in your own life: I want mercy, not sacrifice!
Oh my but the Spirit is busy! She is restless! What inspiring contributions on this psg. Truly God's gift this week...many thanks to you all. May the Spirit's brooding keep you ever creative. Amen. g.g. can.
Ian in Melton...
Thanks, you just made it all fit...
Tom, in OK
"But go and learn what this means: `I desire mercy, not sacrifice.'" Jesus is quoting from Hosea 6:6, a very important scripture for the Israelites when they were in exile with no temple and no possiblility of sacrifice. The word translated mercy is 'hesed' a very rich word. In the RSV it is usually translated as 'steadfast love". According to the NBD, it "denotes devotion to a covenant, and so, of God, his covenant-love.. . . This steady persistent refusal of God to wash his hands of wayward Israel is the essential meaning of the hebrew word."
There's a lot of that going around in this weeks lections. The grace of God comes inexplicably on Abram. He receives hesed so that he may be a blessing to others and to all the nations of the earth. And so in this passage from Matthew.
Larry cny
Speaking of disenfranchised, how about homosexuals, people with HIV/AIDS (or other life threatening illnesses, etc? Did (or would) Jesus associate with or call these disenfranchised folks?
Jim Lynch Daytona Beach FL
Absolutely!
And the Pharisees of today still condemn him.
Rick in Canada, eh?
Just a quick note: I just came from a conference where the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church was speaking. The topic of the weekend was hospitible conversation. the PB Frank Griswold told us we have a tendency to gather in "gated communities of like-mindedness, where we can, from time to time, lob things over at each other's enclosure." (Or something like that.) I plan to add that to my sermon on our tendency to decide ahead of time who is permitted to be "in" and who must stay out of our communities of faith and so-called righteousness.
SWFLA
Songwriter Chris Rice has a song called "Live by Faith" and the chorus goes like this:
"Cause Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe and blessed are the hands that keep givin' but never receive and blessed is the heart that gets broken but keeps holdin' on holdin' on for another day 'cause that's what it means to live by faith."
And I like that coupled with Hosea 6:2 that says,
"After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up, that we may live before him." (NRSV)
For those in our Matthew text, healing was instantaneous. But sometimes, we have to wait to see the results of his work - maybe 2-3 days, maybe 2-3 decades. But if we believe that God is at work in the world, we KNOW that he is working towards redemption.
Tigger in ND
This has been a rich week of insights at this site! Thanks first to Latina and Rap in OH for the great stories! Susan - Don't forget the connection between the covenant of marriage and Matthew's call - Jesus takes us where he finds us, and uses us as we are. Marriage, a new experience of life, calls us to new means of serving God. To the sister/brother who didn't know what to tell the young woman seeking healing: I believe that God always heals. My view of healing is based on a book I read years ago, "You Can Pray as You Ought" by Arnold Prater. God heals in 5 different ways: Naturally - through the immune system he blessed our bodies with. Medically - through the wisdom & skill God grants to physicians, nurses, and other medical professionals. "Miraculously" - Actually, all healing is miraculous, but this is the healing that comes with no apparent rational explanation - like touching the hem of Jesus' garment. Acceptance - This is the healing God offered Paul for his thorn in the flesh. God refused to remove the thorn, but reminded Paul, "My Grace is enough." resurrection - Death is the ultimate healing. To die in Christ is to live with him also, and there will be no more sickness, or dying. Some call this "hedging." I call it faith. God always heals. Brandon, I think this is the connection between the two pericopes - the whole chapter is really about healing - Matthew is healed, made whole, by Christ's call. He was one of the ones in "need of a physician" that the Lord spoke of. Healing comes in many different ways, but the healing stories of the gospels all point to Jesus the Healer, who makes us whole in body, mind, emotions, Spirit. God's blessings on all you faithful ones, I've been blessed by your discussions this week! Grace & Peace, Ken in WV.
Just a note to say thank you to my brothers and sisters who encouraged me to write in this forum. Thanks Nail Bender, yout words are always so sweet. Thanks Latino, it was good to know that I am not the only latino in here! Thanks Sid Burgess and Ken in WV. Thanks again for your love.
Latina in VA
Latina!
We may not all come from where you come from, but i do hope we are all going where you'e going!
One of many
I had great fun with this passage, centering on Jesus' command: But go and learn what this means and then the quote from Hosea that Jesus uses about mercy and not sacrifice...we commissioned 24 youth to go to Costa Rica and I incorporated a parable from the Zohar about the Torah.....about entering and emerging...It all worked together well. Rev. M. W. Boles
Rev. Rich in Kent, Wa.
Looking at the text I reflect back to the parable of the publican and the Pharisee, where the Pharisee says, "Lord I am glad I am not like that publican..." I ask the questions of: I. Who are the publicans A. Then B. Now
II. Who are the Pharisees A. Then B. Now
III. What catigory do we fit in. A. Are we in need of a physician B. Or do we think we can heal ourselves.
Christ came to save you and me. We are in need of a savior, because we can not save ourseleves. Christ can heal us, physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Well, this is a start at looking at the main ideas of the text from my point of view. Thanks for everyones input, it gets me to thinking...
Rich