Lessons for Proper 21 (Lutheran Service Book)
Numbers 11:4–6, 10–16, 24–29 ~ God spread His Spirit to the elders of Israel to lighten Moses’ load.
Psalm 104:27–35 (antiphon: v. 24)
James 5:(1–12) 13–20 ~ We must not hinder people in their faith with our self-indulgence and impatience.
Mark 9:38–50 ~ Jesus warned the disciples not to let their jealousy get in the way of the gospel message.
GATHERING THE TEXTS: What Are You Jealous For?
What makes you jealous? Joshua wanted to preserve Moses’ exclusive claim to prophecy. When we indulge ourselves with luxury and time, it does not promote the welfare and faith of God’s people. Jesus’ disciples were protecting their close relationship with Jesus. God wants us to be jealous, not for advantages and privileges we may enjoy, but for his Gospel and the spread of his Kingdom no matter who is spreading it.
PRAYER BEFORE THE SERVICE: “Teach me, O Lord, to follow your decrees; then I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding, and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Amen. (Ps 119:33-34 NIV)
STEWARDSHIP THOUGHT: When we compare the blessings God has given to us with those He has given to other people, we often become jealous or proud. God has given us blessings to share, not to compare.
OFFERING PRAYER: Lord, listen to our heart-felt prayer:
Incline our hearts that we may share
The blessings You have given for all
In service to Your kingdom’s call. Amen.
CONVICTION AND COMFORT: Why is it that we get jealous when we see others prosper? Instead of patiently waiting for the Lord’s results and rejoicing in His work, we carve out our own area of influence and protect our own prestige. God’s word reminds us that anything we do that hinders another person’s faith is harmful to our own spiritual life! Thanks be to God that He so jealously protects His chosen people that He gave His own Son to claim and rescue us even from our own partiality.
No comments:
Post a Comment