by Buddy Kirwan
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time – August 03, 2025
Readings: Hosea 11:1-11 Psalm 107:1-9, 43 Colossians 3:1-11 Luke 12:13-21
GUARDING OUR HEARTS
We saw from last week’s Old Testament reading that, in spite of Yahweh’s umpteen pleadings to return to Him, Israel was on the cusp of terrible judgement. In today’s reading from Hosea 11, Yahweh’s love for his ‘backslidden’ people, is described in terms of a loving parent’s care for an obstinate and idolatrous child (vv.1-2). Isn’t this the type of love that makes the Almighty God so very different from any ancient or present-day idol (vv.3-4). The dangers of hard-heartedness have already been mentioned elsewhere, but Yahweh’s relentless love knows no bounds: “How can I give you up…my heart recoils within me; my compassion grows warm and tender” vv. 8-9. Should there be any inclination of straying in the hearts of his people today, may we hear him, “who roars like a lion… his children shall come trembling… return them (us) to their (our) homes” vv.10-11. God’s loving faithfulness to his children is embedded in covenant, initially with Abrham and ultimately fulfilled by Jesus in the covenant signed in his blood. Biblical words associated with God’s covenant include those found in today’s Psalm 107: “he is good, his steadfast love endures forever… he delivered them” vv.1, 6, 8, 43. Let us, “the redeemed of the Lord… give thanks, for his steadfast love endures forever” vv.2, 1. When writing to the young church at Colossae, Paul warns the Christians there against those “earthly” things that cause heart-hardedness and attract “the wrath of God” Colossians 3.5-6. May the God who has raised us to new life in Christ, help us to, “Set your minds on the things that are above, not on the things that are on earth” vv. 1-2. We will notice from our reading in Luke 12 how Paul’s warnings to the Colossians were akin to the Master’s teaching on “earthly” possessions: “Be on your guard against all kinds of greed, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions” v.15. In the parable that ensued, Jesus’ warning to the “rich man” was quite stark: “I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry. But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you” vv.19-20. As we consider these words of Jesus, may we be “rich towards God” v.21
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time – August 10, 2025
Readings: Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 Luke 12:32-40
A KINGDOM OF FAITH
The prophet Isaiah is introduced to our lectionary readings as, “the Son of Amoz” who ministered in Judah during the reign of four Kings: a span of approximately fifty years (Isaiah 1:1). To survive this length of time as an outspoken prophet is quite amazing. One example of Isaiah’s precarious language can be seen in v.10 as he addresses the Word of God to, “you rulers of Sodom… you people of Gomorrah.” His audience were well aware of the implication of these words that would, doubtless, have offended them. God’s people had strayed very far from a loving relationship with him but continued to practice a form of religion that deeply offended Yahweh (vv.11-14): “When you stretch out your hands, I will hide my eyes from you; even though you make many prayers, I will not listen” v.15. The verses that follow, demonstrate that God’s grace was at the heart of Isaiah’s ministry (vv.16-20). “Come let us reason together says the Lord…” God’s love for his people will not cooperate with their destructive choices but instead, acting out of his holiness and grace, he “comes and… before him is a devouring fire and a mighty tempest”. We remain deeply grateful for the gift of faith that drew us into this covenant circle. A faith that is not some vague hope, grounded in imaginary thinking, rather a settled confidence that even a future not yet seen, but promised by God, will happen. This is the faith of Abraham and now ours; not blind trust, but a faith that is clearly set in the person of our Lord Jesus Christ. In today’s gospel, having warned his followers against the dangers of anxiety, Jesus advises them to focus their lives on his Kingdom (Luke 12:22-31). A kingdom he assures them “is your Father’s good pleasure to give you…” v.32. Jesus emphasises the importance for Christians to remain in a state of expectation and readiness for his coming VV. 35-40. A prayer: God of Abraham and Jesus, you invite your people to contemplate heavenly things and urge us toward faith in you. May your coming among us find our doors open, our tables set, and all your people ready to greet you. Amen.
Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time – August 17, 2025
Readings: Isaiah 5:1 – 7 Palm 80:1 – 2, 8 – 19 Hebrews 11:29 – 12. 2 Luke 12:49 – 56
JESUS THE TRUE VINE
In Isaiah chapter 5, the prophet uses a parable of a vineyard to illustrate God’s relationship with Israel and the nation’s failure to produce good fruit. This symbolises a true relationship with Yahweh demonstrated by, among other things, justice and righteousness. His tender care for his people is likened to a vineyard owner (“vinedresser” John 15:1) tending his vines, yet their actions are like producing “wild grapes” (sometimes translated: sour or stinking) leading to judgment and devastation (v.2). Isaiah uses this parable to highlight Yahweh’s response to his people’s failure to live up to their covenant relationship with him. It serves as a warning that disobedience and a lack of justice leads to judgment and destruction. However, it also hints at the possibility of restoration and redemption (v.7). In the New Testament, Jesus is presented as the true and ultimate fulfilment of God’s covenant with Israel, describing him as the “New Israel.” Jesus said: “I AM the true vine…” John 15:1. In Psalm 80, the Psalmist also uses the vineyard symbol as he pleads with Yahweh, for restoration. The psalm expresses grief over the vine’s destruction and calls upon God to intervene, restore the vine, and cause His face to shine upon His people, leading to their salvation (vv.14-19). Hebrews 11, often referred to as the Hall of Faith, emphasizes the power and importance of faith in the lives of believers. This “faith” enabled Yahweh’s covenant people to live extraordinary lives despite facing challenges and uncertainties (vv.29-39). Today’s gospel reading of Luke 12:49-56 emphasizes that Jesus’ message, while ultimately good news, would bring division and conflict, even within families. Choosing the kingdom-way is never a ‘soft option’. We recall here some other words of Jesus as recorded in Luke 9:62, “No one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God”. A prayer: God of judgment and grace, you ask not for sacrifices but lives of trusting-faith that acknowledge your power and mercy. Give us faith as deep and strong as Abraham’s and Sarah’s, that we may follow you through all our days as did Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.
Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time – August 24, 2025
Readings: Jeremiah 1:4 – 10 Psalm 71:1 – 6 Hebrews 12:18 – 29 Luke 13:10 – 17
AN UNSHAKEABLE KINGDOM
Three prophets after Isaiah we meet Jeremiah in the book called by his name. In chapter 1:4-10, Yahweh reveals his sovereign choice and empowerment of Jeremiah as a prophet, despite his perceived youth and inadequacy. God assures Jeremiah that He has known and consecrated him for this role from before his birth (echoes of Ps 139) and that He will be with him, providing the words he needs to speak. The passage emphasizes God’s authority over nations and Jeremiah’s role in both tearing down and building up (v.10). In Psalm 71:1-6, the psalmist emphasizes themes of trust, refuge, and deliverance, even in a person’s advanced years. The psalmist emphasises the reliability of Yahweh, acknowledging him as a rock and fortress, who will rescue from enemies and troubles. The lectionary continues to point us to the wonderful truths in the Book of Hebrews. Chapter 12:18-29 contrasts the experience of receiving the Old Covenant at Mount Sinai with the New Covenant in Messiah-Jesus. The passage warns against rejecting this by highlighting the ultimate judgment that awaits those who refuse God’s offer. it calls for gratitude, reverence, and worship of God for the unshakable kingdom received through faith in Jesus. Our gospel reading in Luke 13:10-17 illustrates Jesus’ compassion and authority, particularly his willingness to break religious tradition to heal on the Sabbath. It also highlights the healing power of Jesus and his ability to liberate people from spiritual bondage.
Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time – August 31, 2025
Readings: Jeremiah 2:4–13 Psalm 81:1, 10–16 Hebrews 13:1–8, 15–16 Luke 14:1, 7- 14
PRACTICAL HUMILITY
Yahweh’s prophet continues to challenge God’s people to return to their ‘fountain’. Jeremiah 2:4-13 highlights Yahweh’s disappointment and anger over Israel’s unfaithfulness and idolatry, emphasizing their abandonment of the “fountain of living waters” (Yahweh) for “broken cisterns” (idols and empty pursuits). This passage serves as an indictment, reminding them of their covenantal blessings and calling them to repentance. Psalm 81:1-10 conveys a message of God’s desire for His people to listen to Him and experience His blessings, contrasted with the consequences of disobedience and idolatry. The psalmist calls for joyful worship and remembrance of God’s past deliverance but also warns against turning to other gods and ignoring God’s voice. Hebrews 13:1-8 and 15-16 emphasizes mutual love, hospitality, honouring marriage, contentment, and remembering leaders. This passage also highlights God’s unchanging nature and the importance of continual praise and good works as sacrifices pleasing to God. It encourages believers to live out their faith through practical actions, demonstrating love and trust in God amidst challenges. Luke 14:1, 7-14 emphasizes humility and radical hospitality. Jesus highlights that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, while those who humble themselves will be exalted. He urges listeners to invite the poor, crippled, lame, and blind to feasts, promising blessings at the resurrection for those who prioritize generosity over reciprocity. The passage encourages a shift in focus from earthly status and recognition to serving others and seeking God’s favour.
