THE BIBLE – TODAY’S TREASURE HUNT
COMMENT FOR PENTECOST 10 - 13-08-06
2 Samuel 18: 5-9, 15, 31-33
In the Hebrew people’s early history as a settled state the northern tribes gathered as the forces of Israel in support of Absalom, the brilliant son of King David in order to seize the throne. David’s power is saved by Joab, the commander of the forces of Judah. It will be Judah that survives the exile centuries later. Is there a part being played by the Spirit of God?
Psalms 130
This Pilgrim Song was a favourite of groups walking the final ascent to Jerusalem. Coming from the depths of any personal struggle, but sharing in the confusion and pain of a world believing that human problems can be saved by force of arms. The worshipper longs to breathe the pure mountain air of the spirit of God, and hear words of love, truth and compassion from friend or stranger in the covenant community.
Ephesians 4:25-5:2
Paul methodically explains how a Christian community might look. It makes good reading. People can get excited, even angry, but the quarrel is over by sunset, because they have this deeper unity as members one of another. Anyway it is a community of people who have themselves experienced the forgiveness of God. In the face of persecution the Christians could claim they were the best citizens of the Empire.
John 6:35,41-51
Our world is now dominated by violence and death where human habitation is destroyed and the children killed. So we need to hear the voice of the Bread of Life. This voice offers a love strong and deep enough to include enemies. Without this Bread we suffer spiritually, and become so unfeeling that we push away frightened people who come seeking in our country a refuge and hope.
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