Pondering the Word …

Reading this passage makes me think of the stories I have read over the past few years about families torn apart by politics. Faith communities fractured by differing definitions of what it means to “serve the Lord.” I can’t help but think that anyone who fosters division in the name of God is, in fact, serving the gods of ego, of control, the god of “my way or the highway.”

Reading further, the people say, “Far be it from us to forsake the Lord,” to which Joshua responds: “You will not be able to serve the Lord…he will not put up with your crimes and offenses.”

Fast forward, and we are comforted by the awareness God does indeed put up with our crimes and offenses, a million times over. But it begs the question: “WHEN will we understand what it means to serve the Lord?

Mon, Aug 26: “Woe to you who say, ‘If one swears by the temple, it means nothing but if one swears by the gold of the temple, one is obligated.’ Blind fools, which is greater, the gold, or the temple that made the gold sacred?” (Mt 23:13-22).  “Um…Jesus, do you remember what you said back in Mt 5:22? About anyone calling another a fool would be liable to the council?”  The author of Matthew is writing to the Jewish Christian communities after the fall of Jerusalem in 70 CE, and portrays Jesus as an expert teacher and a scholar of the law. No one had a microphone under Jesus’ nose either, so it’s best not to get caught up in the actual words Jesus “speaks.” Focus instead on the message. Provision: What do you value? Remember the Publican and the Pharisee? Some still look at material riches as a sign of God’s favor. Their possessions define them and take precedence over the temple of the Spirit within themselves. Reflect on what Jesus’ words mean in your life.

Tue, Aug 27: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites. You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin and neglect the weightier things of the law: judgment, mercy, and fidelity. But these you should have done, without neglecting the others” (Mt 23: 23-26). There’s an expression, “the devil is in the details.” It reminds us that small things can confound the best of plans. Jesus’ words today are a twist on this expression. The devil is indeed in the details here. The elders are caught up in the minor aspects of the law rather than “weightier things” like mercy and fidelity. Provision: Look at both aspects of faith. Some value their scrupulous attention to the letter of the law but fail to live in love. Others focus on social justice but dismiss the call to personal morality and community faith practice. Consider how you live your faith. How do you balance the details with the big picture?

Wed, Aug 28: “Shun any brother who walks in a disorderly way…if anyone was unwilling to work, neither should that one eat” (2 Thes 3: 6-10, 16-18). There’s theological disagreement about this passage. Some say a few Thessalonians think that since Christ has already come, there’s no reason to work. Their hope is great, they’re dancing in the streets, eager for the Lord to take care of all their needs. Other theologians just assume there are deadbeats in the crowd taking advantage of the new Christians. Paul’s words are harsh, but they make me think of people today who don’t work because they have no hope, who see no use in being productive because there is nothing on the horizon to save them; people who don’t seem to value life because in society’s eyes, their life has no value. I believe the faithful Christians of Thessaly did not withhold food from the “disorderly,” but instead helped them understand the importance their life and work had for the Kingdom. Provision: Food for thought today—How do you view those who are poor, who do not work?

Thu, Aug 29: ““…God is faithful...” (1 Cor 1:1-9). When people in our lives fail us, when our cherished institutions betray our trust, remember: “Do not trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no salvation” (Ps 146). Recite: “God alone is faithful.” Provision: What is your mantra? What word or phrase or prayer do you call upon when life is challenging? If you don’t have one, think about using the words above. Focus on your breath, recite your mantra, and remember God is with you, faithful as always.

Fri, Aug 30: “For it is written ‘I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the learning of the learned I will set aside’”   (1 Cor 1:17-25, from Is 29:14). The word “wise” shows up in scripture a lot these past few weeks. Sometimes, it seems to be a good thing, and other times, something to be destroyed. (In the gospel today about the “wise” virgins, it translates more accurately to “prudent.”)  It’s important we understand the difference between worldly wisdom/learning and the wisdom of the Spirit. Provision: Be an elder. No age requirement. An elder is someone who possesses both knowledge of the world and knowledge of the Spirit. Someone who can look at the real world with a God’s-eye view, who can keep things in perspective for themselves and others. Someone who never forgets the Source of all knowledge, wisdom, and all that is good. Be an elder for another today.

Sat, Aug 31: "A man going on a journey called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them…each according to his ability” (Mt 25:14-30). I understand the message: we use the gifts we have been given to build the Kingdom. But another thought comes to mind: What if the other servants had reached out to the timid and fearful one to support and encourage him? Then all three could share the master’s joy. Provision: Be a support to others. As we are busy increasing the harvest of our own gifts, take time to look around. Does someone else need help? Not everything has to be a competition. You can succeed and help others to succeed as well.

Elaine Ireland has a passion for working with parents and anyone who struggles to maintain a sense of God’s love and peace amid the day-to-day challenges of life. She has a master’s degree in Spiritual and Pastoral Care from the Pastoral Counseling department at Loyola, Maryland, with a focus on developmental psychology and spiritual guidance.  Rooted in Ignatian spirituality, she is a writer, retreat and workshop leader, and presenter on topics such as pastoral parenting, “letting go,” and finding the spiritual in the midst of everyday life. She lives in Ellicott City, Maryland with her husband, Mark and children, David and Maggie.

We hope you enjoy "Come and See!" and we welcome your input. Please contact Elaine Ireland at ehireland@gmail.com with questions, comments, and responses, or to receive Provisions free via email.