We live in difficult and dangerous times, and our worship and ministries together are all the more important when there are stresses in our local communities, the nation, and the world for which we pray. Here is commentary to open two of the readings we hear today, and I am helped in this by my friend and colleague Bob Dannals, who posts online daily eDevotions.
“Thus says the Lord concerning his people: truly they have loved to wander [away from God], they have not restrained their feet.” Jeremiah 14:10
The prophet Jeremiah was chosen and set apart for God in a time of trouble. As if it were not enough that the social fabric of Judah was collapsing, overwhelmed by an aggressive and expanding empire, the nation was also divided by classism – few would listen to a word of equity and justice. The people of Israel were wandering away from their beliefs and traditions… Jeremiah is calling their wandering lust into account.
We wander as well. Where have your feet been taking you lately? Are you on a journey toward God and God’s purposes – or away from divine presence into your own dreams and aspirations? Today and in the week to come, may we seek moments of finding security and purpose in something larger than the angst of the day— and cast our trust into seeking and serving the Lord. We cannot do this alone; we need the support and community of our church.
Saint Paul wrote: “I am already being poured out as a libation …” 2 Timothy 4:6
The Second Letter to Timothy concludes with this farewell. Paul’s death will be seen as a libation, a sacrifice offered to God. Now that he has fulfilled his mission, Paul is ready to receive the gift of eternal life. This gift isn’t just for “heroes” of the faith but for anyone who seeks God’s presence – in Word and Sacraments –and sets out to do God’s work. Why should we show up and put our faithful best foot forward? Because God may use us today as a vessel of grace, pouring out God’s love as a libation for those in need.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith…” 2 Timothy 4:7
My wife Sarah and I took a group of pilgrims to Rome some years ago, and we were granted admission to an active archaeological site. It is likely that Saint Paul was under house arrest there in a small apartment that was partially below street level, with windows facing the street. The straight street was one corridor to the Coliseum, and Paul would have seen foot races, as well as other traffic to the Coliseum. While under house arrest in Rome, Paul not only taught and baptized, but he also wrote letters, including the four New Testament Epistles of Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.
We read in Acts 28:30-31: For two whole years Paul stayed there in rented lodging and welcomed all who came to see him. He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!
Although Paul and his companions felt abandoned by many who have failed to support them against their accusers, they knew that they had not been forsaken by God. Even while under arrest Paul had been enabled to proclaim the gospel, and he was confident that he would be delivered from ultimate harm and brought to the joys of Heaven.
Ours is a faith that is formed and fueled by goodness and grace. But some people in our society seek success and prosperity. Cruel power. Extreme wealth. May we see our faith to be fueled by grace and our lives as dispensers of goodness. This perspective helps us run with endurance … to finish the race in faith, hope, love, justice, mercy, and humility, in the name of Christ Jesus, our true King.
The Rev. Donald Fishburne, D.Min.
