Saturday, February 24, 2007
From AscensionNYC
Saturday after Ash Wednesday
Psalm 86:1-11
Isaiah 58:9b-14
Luke 5:27-32
Today's readings testify to the boundless gifts of God and to his expectations for our work in the world, caring for others and striving to follow God's teachings.
Much of the passage in Psalms is devoted to praise of God and thanksgiving for his "steadfast love." The Psalmist also expresses confidence that God will answer his call for help in times of trouble. But he asks for more: to learn God's ways, so that he may walk in truth. And he directs his prayer to a specific goal, asking for an "undivided heart" to support his worship of God. The request brought to my mind the many demands of the world that can divide my attention and my heart, and keep me from devoting as much time to thoughtful prayer as I intend (and require!).
Isaiah sets up a clear exchange: If we avoid certain actions, we will be rewarded by God. We are to turn away from "speaking evil," and from neglecting those who are in need. The blessings to be realized in return range from the general (continual guidance from God) to the extravagant and far reaching (becoming like a life-giving spring of water, and standing as one who "restores the streets to live in," i.e., is the source of practical help for many).
The familiar passage from Luke recounts one of the occasions when Jesus defined his mission. At a banquet given for him by the tax collector Levi, he responds to challenges from the religious leaders who question his dining with tax collectors and "sinners." Jesus replies emphatically: he has come among people not to associate with the "righteous," but to help sinners in need.
Isaiah 58:9b-14
Luke 5:27-32
Today's readings testify to the boundless gifts of God and to his expectations for our work in the world, caring for others and striving to follow God's teachings.
Much of the passage in Psalms is devoted to praise of God and thanksgiving for his "steadfast love." The Psalmist also expresses confidence that God will answer his call for help in times of trouble. But he asks for more: to learn God's ways, so that he may walk in truth. And he directs his prayer to a specific goal, asking for an "undivided heart" to support his worship of God. The request brought to my mind the many demands of the world that can divide my attention and my heart, and keep me from devoting as much time to thoughtful prayer as I intend (and require!).
Isaiah sets up a clear exchange: If we avoid certain actions, we will be rewarded by God. We are to turn away from "speaking evil," and from neglecting those who are in need. The blessings to be realized in return range from the general (continual guidance from God) to the extravagant and far reaching (becoming like a life-giving spring of water, and standing as one who "restores the streets to live in," i.e., is the source of practical help for many).
The familiar passage from Luke recounts one of the occasions when Jesus defined his mission. At a banquet given for him by the tax collector Levi, he responds to challenges from the religious leaders who question his dining with tax collectors and "sinners." Jesus replies emphatically: he has come among people not to associate with the "righteous," but to help sinners in need.
Dori Dinsmoor
