The Fifth Sunday after Epiphany (OT)

1 Kings 18:16-46
16 So Obadiah went to meet Ahab, and told him. And Ahab went to meet Elijah.
17 When Ahab saw Elijah, Ahab said to him, “Is it you, you troubler of Israel?” 18 And he answered, “I have not troubled Israel, but you have, and your father’s house, because you have abandoned the commandments of the LORD and followed the Baals. 19 Now therefore send and gather all Israel to me at Mount Carmel, and the 450 prophets of Baal and the 400 prophets of Asherah, who eat at Jezebel’s table.”
20 So Ahab sent to all the people of Israel and gathered the prophets together at Mount Carmel. 21 And Elijah came near to all the people and said, “How long will you go limping between two different opinions? If the LORD is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” And the people did not answer him a word. 22 Then Elijah said to the people, “I, even I only, am left a prophet of the LORD, but Baal’s prophets are 450 men. 23 Let two bulls be given to us, and let them choose one bull for themselves and cut it in pieces and lay it on the wood, but put no fire to it. And I will prepare the other bull and lay it on the wood and put no fire to it. 24 And you call upon the name of your god, and I will call upon the name of the LORD, and the God who answers by fire, he is God.” And all the people answered, “It is well spoken.” 25 Then Elijah said to the prophets of Baal, “Choose for yourselves one bull and prepare it first, for you are many, and call upon the name of your god, but put no fire to it.” 26 And they took the bull that was given them, and they prepared it and called upon the name of Baal from morning until noon, saying, “O Baal, answer us!” But there was no voice, and no one answered. And they limped around the altar that they had made. 27 And at noon Elijah mocked them, saying, “Cry aloud, for he is a god. Either he is musing, or he is relieving himself, or he is on a journey, or perhaps he is asleep and must be awakened.” 28 And they cried aloud and cut themselves after their custom with swords and lances, until the blood gushed out upon them. 29 And as midday passed, they raved on until the time of the offering of the oblation, but there was no voice. No one answered; no one paid attention.
30 Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come near to me.” And all the people came near to him. And he repaired the altar of the LORD that had been thrown down. 31 Elijah took twelve stones, according to the number of the tribes of the sons of Jacob, to whom the word of the LORD came, saying, “Israel shall be your name,” 32 and with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD. And he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two seahs of seed. 33 And he put the wood in order and cut the bull in pieces and laid it on the wood. And he said, “Fill four jars with water and pour it on the burnt offering and on the wood.” 34 And he said, “Do it a second time.” And they did it a second time. And he said, “Do it a third time.” And they did it a third time. 35 And the water ran around the altar and filled the trench also with water.
36 And at the time of the offering of the oblation, Elijah the prophet came near and said, “O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that you are God in Israel, and that I am your servant, and that I have done all these things at your word. 37 Answer me, O LORD, answer me, that this people may know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you have turned their hearts back.” 38 Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. 39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces and said, “The LORD, he is God; the LORD, he is God.” 40 And Elijah said to them, “Seize the prophets of Baal; let not one of them escape.” And they seized them. And Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon and slaughtered them there.
41 And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go up, eat and drink, for there is a sound of the rushing of rain.” 42 So Ahab went up to eat and to drink. And Elijah went up to the top of Mount Carmel. And he bowed himself down on the earth and put his face between his knees. 43 And he said to his servant, “Go up now, look toward the sea.” And he went up and looked and said, “There is nothing.” And he said, “Go again,” seven times. 44 And at the seventh time he said, “Behold, a little cloud like a man’s hand is rising from the sea.” And he said, “Go up, say to Ahab, ‘Prepare your chariot and go down, lest the rain stop you.’ ” 45 And in a little while the heavens grew black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain. And Ahab rode and went to Jezreel. 46 And the hand of the LORD was on Elijah, and he gathered up his garment and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (1 Ki 18:16–46). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Prayer is a very powerful thing. God has always asked his people to pray. He has also promised to answer their prayer. Elijah prayed, "O LORD, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that you are God in Israel, and that I am your servant, and that I have done all these things at your word. Answer me, O LORD, answer me, that this people may know that you, O LORD, are God, and that you have turned their hearts back." He prayed for God to burn a simple sacrifice. But that simple sacrifice would bring the people of Israel to believe.

There have been many prayers to God asking for many different things. Some people pray for God to reveal himself to others. Other people pray to foreign gods for security or protection. But for all those who believe in Jesus Christ, they have a Father in Heaven that loves and cares for them. Elijah trusted in the Lord completely. He was willing to mock other gods and their prophets. He was even willing to mock his king, because he trusted in the LORD.

God had provided the place. God had provided his prophet. And God provided the fire to consume the sacrifice. By this act he also consumed and devoted those who stood against him. By this Sacrifice God destroyed the power to deceive and corrupt his people. He answered the Prayer of his Servant Elijah. He brought salvation to all who believe in God their Savior. Then he also brought rain.

The Fifth Sunday after Epiphany (CL)

Matthew 6:1-15
1 “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.
2 “Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
5 “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. 6 But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
7 “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. 8 Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. 9 Pray then like this:
“Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
10  Your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
11  Give us this day our daily bread,
12  and forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13  And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
14 For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, 15 but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Mt 6:1–15). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Our Father in heaven knows all the things we do even in secret. Jesus urges us to keep things secret even from ourselves. Jesus teaches us to pray to our Father in Heaven. But what is the most compelling part of this passage? Is it the command to do things hidden behind closed doors or is it to forgive others like God has Forgiven us.

It comes down to where we direct our strength. Jesus Christ has called his people to be righteous and perfect. Chapter Five gave us many statements to compel us to act properly. When we do act properly we think we should get some credit for that. Most of us like to get awards for doing good things. Most of us like to be praised by others for all the hard work we put in. Jesus tells us not to take credit. Do good but hide it from all others. God is the only one that anyone should try to impress and he sees everything.

Jesus Christ has died for the pride of everyone. He has paid the price for our sins. He has redeemed us from the penalty of death. Jesus Christ true God has forgiven you all your trespasses. He has made you perfect and righteous through his blood and sacrifice. Therefore, Jesus tells us to forgive one another. This may be difficult for anyone.

When you do not think you are able to forgive, pray the LORD's Prayer and pray for the strength to forgive others. God who hears your prayer in secret will forgive you of all your sins.

The Fourth Sunday after Epiphany (Ps) January 29th

Psalm 119:113-128
113 I hate the double-minded,
but I love your law.
114 You are my hiding place and my shield;
I hope in your word.
115 Depart from me, you evildoers,
that I may keep the commandments of my God.
116 Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live,
and let me not be put to shame in my hope!
117 Hold me up, that I may be safe
and have regard for your statutes continually!
118 You spurn all who go astray from your statutes,
for their cunning is in vain.
119 All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross,
therefore I love your testimonies.
120 My flesh trembles for fear of you,
and I am afraid of your judgments.
121 I have done what is just and right;
do not leave me to my oppressors.
122 Give your servant a pledge of good;
let not the insolent oppress me.
123 My eyes long for your salvation
and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.
124 Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,
and teach me your statutes.
125 I am your servant; give me understanding,
that I may know your testimonies!
126 It is time for the LORD to act,
for your law has been broken.
127 Therefore I love your commandments
above gold, above fine gold.
128 Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right;
I hate every false way.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Ps 119:113–128). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

There are many of us that love legal programs on Television or even to read about various court cases. Writers have used legal proceedings to produce many different forms of literature or art. People like these because they have twists and turns and it seems like nobody is telling the truth or they are telling half-truths. You never seem to get the entire picture until you get to the final verdict and even then there could still be a twist. But what makes these interesting is because they are full of so called double talk. People can be of two minds.

It is not about facts or the Law it is only about what I can convince someone else it says or means. Many people look at the Bible in the same way. It only means that because you think it means that. What does it actually say? We do not need to look to double minded people or people who twist words but look at what it actually says. If you don't go beyond that you can get really far, but then you run into poetry and parables. What do those things mean?

The Psalmist tells us that he loves the Law of God and his truth. The more we read it, it can become an escape for us also. We can look at the many twists and turns God's people have take throughout the years. You can read about Laws which concern practically every area of your life. But ultimately the Psalmist Loves God's Law because it transforms a person.

God is constantly transforming people through his Word. It is not static or stationary but alive and active. It continues to work on people the more they read and hear it. The more we read mark and inwardly digest the Word of God, it will continue to point us to our Eternal and Everlasting Hope in Christ Jesus our Lord. He gives us Life.

The Fourth Sunday after Epiphany (GA)

Matthew 10:34-39
34 “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35 For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36 And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household. 37 Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. 39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Mt 10:34–39). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Jesus is born the Prince of Peace and it is said at his birth, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Jesus was supposed to bring peace to the people. St Paul says that he makes peace between the Jews and Gentiles in Galatians. But why does he say he does not bring peace?

Some think these family disputes can align themselves with those struggling to believe in Jesus Christ and those who deny him. Many Jewish families today can be very much divided when someone becomes a Christian. Someone once told me, "it is easier to become a Jewish Muslim than a Jewish Christian." But is that what Jesus means when he says he brings a sword?

What if he means that he will make you into a new family. You will die to your old self and become something or someone new. You are not worthy of Christ unless you have denied your old self and followed him. There have been many Christians who have taken this passage quite literally. They have left everything and followed Jesus, following in the so called feet of the early disciples. They lead lives completely separate from the world. But maybe these Christians are right. We need to give up our lives or lose our life for his sake and only then we will find it.

I have often liked the song "Life for Rent" by Dido. She talks about the idea of if your life is for rent and you don't plan to buy then you deserve nothing more than you get, because nothing you have is truly yours. Maybe we can remember that our Life is not our own. But we have been bought by a price. It is Jesus who died for your life. He is the one who owns it. He is the one who has killed you with a sword or by water and has given you new life. Take up your cross and follow him.

The Fourth Sunday after Epiphany (OTA)

Deuteronomy 24:1-4
1 “When a man takes a wife and marries her, if then she finds no favor in his eyes because he has found some indecency in her, and he writes her a certificate of divorce and puts it in her hand and sends her out of his house, and she departs out of his house, 2 and if she goes and becomes another man’s wife, 3 and the latter man hates her and writes her a certificate of divorce and puts it in her hand and sends her out of his house, or if the latter man dies, who took her to be his wife, 4 then her former husband, who sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after she has been defiled, for that is an abomination before the LORD. And you shall not bring sin upon the land that the LORD your God is giving you for an inheritance.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Dt 24:1–4). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

What does the Bible say about Divorce? Most people know what Jesus had to say concerning Divorce. "Don't do it." But why does Moses give this discussion about Divorce. Moses talks as though Divorce could be a common treatment of a Woman who does not find favor in her husband's eyes. But what is the concern for the woman?

Moses tells us this is an abomination before the LORD, but Jesus says even the divorce in the first place was an abomination before the LORD. Is one thing greater than the other? Well yes, the one who marries a Divorced woman already commits adultery. But should not the husband and wife find favor with each other in the first place. Most people have times when even their best of friend can end up in the camp of the enemy. Does this give us permission to kill or destroy our friendship? No, we look to Christ who died for us even while we were yet sinners.

Jesus Christ has made a wedding vow with each of us. If we would displease him and attach ourselves to another, would it be an abomination for us to think we could return to him. This would certainly not be just or right. But thanks be to God that he has given us a greater word through his Son Jesus Christ. Even though his people constantly turn our backs on him and displease him. He does not divorce us or cast us away.

God instead continues to wash us clean and renew his promises to each you. He does this not because of our claims or worthiness but because of his gracious will to save you. So he sent his Son to die for the forgiveness of all your sins. Even though Moses tells us we should never be able to return, God gives us a perfect way in His Son Jesus Christ.

The Fourth Sunday after Epiphany (OT)

Deuteronomy 5:6-22
6 “ ‘I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.
7 “ ‘You shall have no other gods before me.
8 “ ‘You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. 9 You shall not bow down to them or serve them; for I the LORD your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 10 but showing steadfast love to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments.
11 “ ‘You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain.
12 “ ‘Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy, as the LORD your God commanded you. 13 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 14 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, you or your son or your daughter or your male servant or your female servant, or your ox or your donkey or any of your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates, that your male servant and your female servant may rest as well as you. 15 You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God brought you out from there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm. Therefore the LORD your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath day.
16 “ ‘Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God commanded you, that your days may be long, and that it may go well with you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.
17 “ ‘You shall not murder.
18 “ ‘And you shall not commit adultery.
19 “ ‘And you shall not steal.
20 “ ‘And you shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
21 “ ‘And you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife. And you shall not desire your neighbor’s house, his field, or his male servant, or his female servant, his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor’s.’
22 “These words the LORD spoke to all your assembly at the mountain out of the midst of the fire, the cloud, and the thick darkness, with a loud voice; and he added no more. And he wrote them on two tablets of stone and gave them to me.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Dt 5:6–22). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

These words are repeated by God on another Mountain. He will continue to speak these words with his people. We all need to be reminded of his commands. But maybe we need to adjust the first line to be: "I am the LORD your God, who died for the forgiveness of all your sins, bringing you out of the house of slavery." It is Father, Son and Holy Spirit who have brought you to salvation. Now you need to act properly. How do I act properly? Here are a few Commandments which you already know.

Listen to these words again. Think of your station in life. Are you a Father or a Mother? Are you a Son or Daughter? Have you looked at someone lustfully? Have you put your trust in something other than God? Have you worshiped created things or prayed to created things?

Just a few questions that can remind us of our own sinful nature. We have fallen short of the glory of God. We can not keep these commandments perfectly. We can not even come close to fulfill these commands. But God knows you are weak. God has given you Salvation through his Son. It is the one who saves you from slavery to sin. Jesus Christ has given you new life and Salvation through his death on the Cross. Jesus will bring you back out of the land of Slavery and deliver you to the promise land.

The Fourth Sunday after Epiphany (NT)

1 Corinthians 1:10-17
10 I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. 11 For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers. 12 What I mean is that each one of you says, “I follow Paul,” or “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Cephas,” or “I follow Christ.” 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? 14 I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15 so that no one may say that you were baptized in my name. 16 (I did baptize also the household of Stephanas. Beyond that, I do not know whether I baptized anyone else.) 17 For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (1 Co 1:10–17). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Is Christ ever divided? This phrase seems to take us to another connection. St Paul talks about Christ's body being divided into different groups which appear to agree. But Christ's body was not broken nor divided. Remember it was his clothes that were divided by the casting of lots. But his Body was taken down from the cross in one piece. He was buried in one piece. Christ was also raised in one piece even though he bore the marks of the Cross in his flesh.

St Paul appeals to the brothers in Corinth to get along and not make divisions that are not there. I liken it to the fact that Paul, Cephas, Apollos, and Christ all agree in their confession of the faith, but you are trying to separate them. This is not like Luther, Zwingli, Calvin, and Wesley, because they did not agree in their confession of the Faith. There are many things that could divide or separate the people of God, but do not put of divisions of your own.

St Paul brings these groups back to the foundation of their faith. It is not about how well someone talks or the emotions or even the flash and excitement. It is all about the cross of Christ which has given people life and salvation. Jesus Christ does not change the Law of God from the Creation. It is the same yesterday today and forever. He claims his power through his Sacrifice on the Cross. It is there where he proclaims the gospel and your Salvation.

The Fourth Sunday after Epiphany (NTA)

1 John 3:11-24
11 For this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 12 We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous. 13 Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you. 14 We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death. 15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
16 By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. 17 But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? 18 Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.
19 By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him; 20 for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything. 21 Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God; 22 and whatever we ask we receive from him, because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him. 23 And this is his commandment, that we believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us. 24 Whoever keeps his commandments abides in God, and God in him. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit whom he has given us.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (1 Jn 3:11–24). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Why shouldn't we follow the example of Cain? Just because he killed his brother does not mean he did not later repent. When God confronted Cain he told God he was not his brother's keeper. But when God pushed further Cain said the burden was to great and someone else might take vengeance upon him. So Cain received a Mark, but was this repentance?

Cain is used here because he did not show love for his brother nor his neighbor. Often times we seek out vengeance and evil against our neighbors and even brothers. When people fight and use hateful words, they are subject not to the Sanhedrin but before the Throne of God. God does not confront us with the blood of our brother, but with the blood of his Son.

We know love because God sent his only Son into the flesh to lay down his life for us. It is our sins and evil which spilled the blood of Christ. This blood cries out against us? No, this blood cries out for us. There is one message that Christ and John bring to the people. It is a message of the Love of God and the Forgiveness of sins. God first loved us so that we could love one another.

Therefore, strengthened by Christ we listen to his words. We hear his commandments and lead God pleasing lives. Even as we struggle in thought, word, and deed, we turn to him who has marked you as one redeemed in the blood of Christ Jesus your Savior.

The Fourth Sunday after Epiphany (CL)

Matthew 5:21-48
21 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ 22 But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. 23 So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. 25 Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. 26 Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny.
27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell.
31 “It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ 32 But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
33 “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ 34 But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. 37 Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? 48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. 2001 (Mt 5:21–48). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

God has commanded his people to do many and various things throughout the years. But why does Jesus pick these? What is so important about divorce, oaths, Love of Enemies, and Retaliation or Anger? These must just be random sins Jesus is picking up about the people in the crowd. Why not talk about ceremonial uncleanness or the role of Women. Is Jesus afraid to tackle these difficult issues?

Jesus has good reason to talk about people getting angry. The crowds could have very well been full of people who held anger in their hearts. People who had thought nothing of looking but not touching. There are many people who think sinning in thought alone is nothing. It is the guy or gal who acts on that thought that we throw the book at them. They are the ones who need to pay every last penny. We just need to make sure our works are good not our thoughts.

But Jesus takes everyone of these situations to the farthest extent. He reminds all of us that we are sinful. It does not matter how good your deeds are if you still have spit or revenge in your heart. It does not matter how nice your words are if you spit them out. Let your yes be yes and do what you say you are going to do. Love your enemies as much as your friends.

Your Father has already given you a great reward. He sent his son to proclaim this instruction to the world but he also sent him to die for that same world. God certainly reminds us he is a forgiving God, because he has redeemed your thoughts and actions. He has made you clean in the blood of the Lamb. He has relented from your deserving disaster because of Christ's perfect sacrifice.

Third Sunday after Epiphany (Ps) January 22nd

Psalm 119:97-112
97 Oh how I love your law!
It is my meditation all the day.
98 Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies,
for it is ever with me.
99 I have more understanding than all my teachers,
for your testimonies are my meditation.
100 I understand more than the aged,
for I keep your precepts.
101 I hold back my feet from every evil way,
in order to keep your word.
102 I do not turn aside from your rules,
for you have taught me.
103 How sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104 Through your precepts I get understanding;
therefore I hate every false way.
105 Your word is a lamp to my feet
and a light to my path.
106 I have sworn an oath and confirmed it,
to keep your righteous rules.
107 I am severely afflicted;
give me life, O Lord, according to your word!
108 Accept my freewill offerings of praise, O Lord,
and teach me your rules.
109 I hold my life in my hand continually,
but I do not forget your law.
110 The wicked have laid a snare for me,
but I do not stray from your precepts.
111 Your testimonies are my heritage forever,
for they are the joy of my heart.
112 I incline my heart to perform your statutes
forever, to the end.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Ps 119:97-112). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and light to my path." Jesus Christ has shone his light upon the path that is set before us. He has meditated repeatedly on the Law of God. He has pointed us back to the truth God has set down for generations. He has reminded us that we are called from our wicked ways. He has called his people to be holy as the LORD our God is Holy. Jesus even said that if you are not more righteous than those self righteous hypocrites you are not worthy of the Kingdom of Heaven.

The truth should be stated that none of us are worthy to come before the throne of God. God is the most perfect and righteous judge. The Psalmist writes that he meditates on the Law of God. He even says that he does not forget the Law of God. He is not led astray. But we are not like the Psalmist. I see the snare before me and think I can just walk right through it. I listen to the word of God and feel transformed and renewed but still fall into the same snare again. I am not righteous. I live in darkness and struggle to walk upon the path.

But like the psalmist we return to the Law of God. We return to hear the word of God tell us about Abraham's mistakes. We are reminded that even Moses was not allowed into the promise land. God would not let David build him a Temple but left it to his Son. Solomon even reminds us there is nothing new under the sun. All have fallen short of the Righteousness God requires of us.

Jesus Christ was the Light that shines into our hearts and minds. Jesus shone his light upon the path so we could see. Jesus Christ fulfilled the Law perfect. He did not come to abolish or eliminate the Law but to fulfill the Law on your behalf. He is the one who clothes you with his righteousness. He has made you clean and pure and Worthy as he calls you into his Kingdom. He has claimed you to be his very own with his holy and innocent blood shed for you.

Third Sunday after Epiphany (GA)

John 16:4b-15
“I did not say these things to you from the beginning, because I was with you. 5 But now I am going to him who sent me, and none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6 But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. 7 Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. 8 And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; 11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.
12 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. 13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Jn 16:4-15). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Jesus must leave and send the Holy Spirit to continue the ministry to God's people. But the Spirit is not going to bring a new message nor is he going to change the message. Jesus does not change the message. Jesus come from the Father to reveal the truth to the world. This truth sets people free. When he leaves or departs or returns to heaven, he does not leave the disciples on their own. He sends them a helper who will continue to Guide the people of God.

The Holy Spirit brings the truth to people. He is a witness to what he has seen and heard just like humans are witnesses. But the Holy Spirit knows or has seen a lot more than any human (maybe with the exception of Jesus). He bears witness to the truth and speaks through those whom he sends. "He will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak." We do not speak from our own hearts but from the power of the Holy Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit who speaks faith into our hearts. It is the Holy Spirit who gives us the right or proper words.

Therefore, we should continue to pray for the Holy Spirit to come into our midst. Not because he is not already here through the Word of God, but so that he may continue to strengthen us in the true faith and give us the words to speak when called upon.

Jesus came to Galilee speaking the word of truth to people. He shined his light before people so they could see and hear the truth. So we who Jesus reminds, "All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that [the Holy Spirit] will take what is mine and declare it to you." The Holy Spirit continues to point us to the city on the hill that can not be hidden and the Light that should not be put under a bush. It is the truth of our Salvation through Jesus Christ.

Note: The gifts of the Holy Spirit are given to call people to faith, because this is the work of the Holy Spirit. If we deny this work to the Holy Spirit, we deny the Holy Spirit himself.

Third Sunday after Epiphany (OTA)

Micah 4:1-5
1 It shall come to pass in the latter days
that the mountain of the house of the Lord
shall be established as the highest of the mountains,
and it shall be lifted up above the hills;
and peoples shall flow to it,
2 and many nations shall come, and say:
“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord,
to the house of the God of Jacob,
that he may teach us his ways
and that we may walk in his paths.”
For out of Zion shall go forth the law,
and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
3 He shall judge between many peoples,
and shall decide for strong nations far away;
and they shall beat their swords into plowshares,
and their spears into pruning hooks;
nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
neither shall they learn war anymore;
4 but they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree,
and no one shall make them afraid,
for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken.
5 For all the peoples walk
each in the name of its god,
but we will walk in the name of the Lord our God
forever and ever.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Mic 4:1-5). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

There are many Mountains in the Bible. God has gathered his people to many different places. He gathered his people around Mount Sinai. Later he gathered His people to the Mount Top of Jerusalem where his Temple was built. Proclaimed himself as the one true God on Mt Carmel. God has even gathered his people back to Jerusalem or Mount Zion.

Jesus Christ finds himself standing or hanging on Mount Calvary. But this only comes after gathering his people on several other mountains. Jesus speaks the Sermon on the Mount. He is transfigured on the Mountain top. He then dies upon Mount Calvary.

Many of us find ourselves gathering on other mountains. In the Old Testament the High Places were a place of worship for many. The Woman of Sikar even talks about the different places in which people go to worship and what is Jesus' answer.

Jesus tells the people that you will be able to call upon the Name of the Lord on any mountain or Valley. But the city on a Hill can not be hidden. Jesus Christ gathers his people not to a certain mountain or place but to God our Father in Heaven. He has gathered you into his Kingdom. He has gathered you to Mount Zion. This is were the redeemed in the blood of Christ have been gathered. You have been saved and gathered to this place.

Third Sunday after Epiphany (NTA)

Philippians 2:12-18
12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.
14 Do all things without grumbling or questioning, 15 that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16 holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. 17 Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18 Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Php 2:12-18). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

St Paul urges the Philippians to be blameless. God has told the people to become Holy as he is Holy. This does not make any difference whether Jesus is knocking at the door or sitting upon a throne in heaven. Jesus has promised to always be with you.

St Paul can talk about being away from them. But God does not talk this way. God is always with you. Whether your Pastor or St Paul is looking over your shoulder or is off looking over someone else's shoulder, God is still there. God sees everything you do. God knows all the things you do in secret.

Therefore we are called to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling". Which can leave us of on a ledge, but God is with you. "For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure." God has worked salvation in you through his Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ died for the forgiveness of your sins and for your salvation. He continues to work life in you.

Third Sunday after Epiphany (NT)

1 Corinthians 3:1-9
1 But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ. 2 I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it. And even now you are not yet ready, 3 for you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way? 4 For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not being merely human?
5 What then is Apollos? What is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, as the Lord assigned to each. 6 I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth. 7 So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. 8 He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor. 9 For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (1 Co 3:1-9). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Most of us start off as children. But then one day we step up from our mother's milk and formula to mush and eventually to solid food. St Paul talks about treating people like children with regards to what they are taught. The teachings of the church can be very basic, but they can also be very deep. Jesus Christ reminds the crowd that every last part must remain.

St Paul is struggling with divisions. People who think that they are wise but are actually still infants. This does not mean that we should not grow. While we should all have faith like a little Child, eventually we must eat meat or solid food. When you grow up you are forced to deal with more difficult questions.

The Church has faced a lot of growing up over the last 2000 years, but in some cases they have decided to climb back into the crib. The Church of today can often choose a crib over an actual bed.

Speak the truth in all things. Not even the smallest thing should be left out of the Law and prophets. Jesus Christ has come to fulfill them. Even though St Paul plants and Apollos waters it is still Christ's Holy Church. He has redeemed his people and given them new life through his sacrifice.

Third Sunday after Epiphany (OT)

Isaiah 60:1-7
1 Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
2 For behold, darkness shall cover the earth,
and thick darkness the peoples;
but the Lord will arise upon you,
and his glory will be seen upon you.
3 And nations shall come to your light,
and kings to the brightness of your rising.
4 Lift up your eyes all around, and see;
they all gather together, they come to you;
your sons shall come from afar,
and your daughters shall be carried on the hip.
5 Then you shall see and be radiant;
your heart shall thrill and exult,
because the abundance of the sea shall be turned to you,
the wealth of the nations shall come to you.
6 A multitude of camels shall cover you,
the young camels of Midian and Ephah;
all those from Sheba shall come.
They shall bring gold and frankincense,
and shall bring good news, the praises of the Lord.
7 All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered to you;
the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you;
they shall come up with acceptance on my altar,
and I will beautify my beautiful house.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Is 60:1-7). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Jesus Christ says that He is the Light of the World. Matthew recalls the people in darkness have seen a great light. Those sitting in deep darkness upon them light has shined. Jesus Christ brings the Light that breaks through the Darkness.

All people are called to look up to the Light of Heaven. The Magi saw a star and ventured after it in order to find a King. The people look to this light and it consumes them. Most of us like to hide in darkness. We like to avoid making our secrets visible and known to others. But when His Light Shines it penetrates everything.

But Jesus Christ shares the Light of Christ with others. He shines is light into the darkness so that those who sit in darkness reflect that light. Jesus Christ gathers people together from every nation. He has called you. He has made you a reflector of his Light. "Then you shall see and be radiant" is the may Isaiah sees those who come to the LORD. He has redeemed them from their sins and made them clean in the blood of the Lamb.

Third Sunday after Epiphany (CL)

Matthew 5:13-20
13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. 19 Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Mt 5:13-20). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Jesus Christ calls people into his Kingdom. He makes them the salt of the earth. Jesus makes people salty and able to call others into the Kingdom of God. He does not come to abolish the Law and the Prophets but to fulfill them.

People are not supposed to become laxed in any of these Commandments. They are not supposed to hide the Kingdom of Heaven from others. The People of God are given a light to shine before others. But the Kingdom of Heaven requires nothing less than perfect righteousness. You must be more righteous than those who are self righteous and claim to be perfect around you.

You have been given a great light. You have been given a light that can not be hidden. He has made you the salt of the Earth. It is his name that makes you salty. He has called you to be part of his Kingdom. Jesus Christ has died for the forgiveness of your sins so that you are made perfect. It is His Kingdom that he expands into your Life. So we can pray: THY KINGDOM COME.

The Second Sunday after Epiphany (Ps) January 15th

Psalm 25:1-22
1 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
2 O my God, in you I trust;
let me not be put to shame;
let not my enemies exult over me.
3 Indeed, none who wait for you shall be put to shame;
they shall be ashamed who are wantonly treacherous.
4 Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
5 Lead me in your truth and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long.
6 Remember your mercy, O Lord, and your steadfast love,
for they have been from of old.
7 Remember not the sins of my youth or my transgressions;
according to your steadfast love remember me,
for the sake of your goodness, O Lord!
8 Good and upright is the Lord;
therefore he instructs sinners in the way.
9 He leads the humble in what is right,
and teaches the humble his way.
10 All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness,
for those who keep his covenant and his testimonies.
11 For your name’s sake, O Lord,
pardon my guilt, for it is great.
12 Who is the man who fears the Lord?
Him will he instruct in the way that he should choose.
13 His soul shall abide in well-being,
and his offspring shall inherit the land.
14 The friendship of the Lord is for those who fear him,
and he makes known to them his covenant.
15 My eyes are ever toward the Lord,
for he will pluck my feet out of the net.
16 Turn to me and be gracious to me,
for I am lonely and afflicted.
17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged;
bring me out of my distresses.
18 Consider my affliction and my trouble,
and forgive all my sins.
19 Consider how many are my foes,
and with what violent hatred they hate me.
20 Oh, guard my soul, and deliver me!
Let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in you.
21 May integrity and uprightness preserve me,
for I wait for you.
22 Redeem Israel, O God,
out of all his troubles.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Ps 25:1-22). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

It is the God of our Salvation who has claimed us and redeemed us. He is there with us in our times of need. He is always there to watch over us. The Psalmist reminds us to call to him in times of distress and trouble. God is the one who can lift us up out of the miry bog of our life. He is the one who will deliver our souls.

There are times when we do not hear his voice. We do not always listen when the LORD calls to us. Sometimes we get our feet snared in the net as we try to call and expand the church on our own. But not just when we try to expand the church, but when we try to get ourselves out of tough situations. We often forget to turn to God in our Time of need.

But it is Christ Jesus who first caught his disciples in his net. Jesus makes them to be fishers of men so that they can catch others in that great net. He is the one who gives us salvation. It is still the Love of God that surpasses our understanding because he first loved us even while we were still sinners. So we can all ask with the Psalmist:
Lead me in your truth and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long.

The Second Sunday after Epiphany (GA)

Matthew 17:24-27
24 When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax went up to Peter and said, “Does your teacher not pay the tax?” 25 He said, “Yes.” And when he came into the house, Jesus spoke to him first, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tax? From their sons or from others?” 26 And when he said, “From others,” Jesus said to him, “Then the sons are free. 27 However, not to give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook and take the first fish that comes up, and when you open its mouth you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for me and for yourself.”
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Mt 17:24-27). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Many Christians feel that since they have been made Sons of God, they should be free also. But why is the temple tax collected? Remember that the Levites were not given any land but were supposed to be supported by the people. It was their share in the sacrifices to God which was supposed to be food for them.

You have been made a Son of God who is free from the Temple tax. But you have also been made a priest of God who should have nothing belonging to himself. Therefore, do not think of it as your offering. Think of it as God's money and possessions. God has created you and everything you need, he will provide.

Remember you have been made a slave to Christ Jesus. He is the one who has paid the price for your forgiveness. He has claimed you to be his very own. He has marked you as one redeemed by Christ Jesus. You are made alive in Christ Jesus to be servant of all. Therefore, we should not desire to give offense but help and support those in need.

The Second Sunday after Epiphany (NTA)

1 Peter 2:13-25
13 Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.
18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. 19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (1 Pe 2:13-25). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

You are subject to God our Father who created you and all things. God has given you your eyes ears and all your members. He has also given you people around you to take care of and help you in times of need. Jesus Christ was also given to you by our Father to redeem you from your sins. Jesus Christ is your Lord and Master who has bought you with a price.

You should fear God and honor all those in authority over you. Sometimes it is more entertaining to laugh at or make fun of our various elected officials. These officials have been placed in this position by God. When human leaders act like humans they reveal that we are all sinful human beings. People often like to think that leaders or even professionals need to act above reproach. But God requires the same thing from everyone. You should remember all your own shortfalls when you laugh at someone else's. You should also remember the 4th Commandment.

God has placed people in authority over you to protect you and help you in times of trouble. Christ is your Lord who has redeemed you and bought you with a price. He has called you to become his Holy Slaves. He has healed you from your wound of Sin. St Peter says, "For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls." You have come to Jesus Christ who forgiveness you of all your sins.

The Second Sunday after Epiphany (NT)

1 Corinthians 7:17-24
17 Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches. 18 Was anyone at the time of his call already circumcised? Let him not seek to remove the marks of circumcision. Was anyone at the time of his call uncircumcised? Let him not seek circumcision. 19 For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God. 20 Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called. 21 Were you a slave when called? Do not be concerned about it. (But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.) 22 For he who was called in the Lord as a slave is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a slave of Christ. 23 You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men. 24 So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (1 Co 7:17-24). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Jesus Christ called his disciples to become fishers of men. God has also called people from various walks of life. God calls people who were circumcised meaning they were under the Law of Moses. God calls people who were uncircumcised meaning they were outside the people of God. But both have been called to the same thing. They are all made slaves to Christ.

"For he who was called in the Lord as a slave is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a slave of Christ." You have been transformed. You have been changed. If you were free you are now a slave and vice versa. Thus, since most of the people who will read this are freedmen, you have become slaves to Christ. You are a Slave! You have an owner, whose name is Jesus Christ. This means you need to obey your Master. When Christ calls you to do something, you say "Yes Sir!" If he tells you to jump you should ask, "How High?"

Jesus Christ has bought you to be his slave. You are a slave of Christ Jesus. You belong to Christ. He has paid the price for your life. Therefore, as Moses wrote, "But if the slave plainly says, 'I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free,' then his master shall bring him to God, and he shall bring him to the door or the doorpost. And his master shall bore his ear through with an awl, and he shall be his slave forever." So get a set of Earrings and be a Slave to Christ who is your Master. He has redeemed you from your sins.

The Second Sunday after Epiphany (OTA)

2 Kings 6:8-23
8 Once when the king of Syria was warring against Israel, he took counsel with his servants, saying, “At such and such a place shall be my camp.” 9 But the man of God sent word to the king of Israel, “Beware that you do not pass this place, for the Syrians are going down there.” 10 And the king of Israel sent to the place about which the man of God told him. Thus he used to warn him, so that he saved himself there more than once or twice.
11 And the mind of the king of Syria was greatly troubled because of this thing, and he called his servants and said to them, “Will you not show me who of us is for the king of Israel?” 12 And one of his servants said, “None, my lord, O king; but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the words that you speak in your bedroom.” 13 And he said, “Go and see where he is, that I may send and seize him.” It was told him, “Behold, he is in Dothan.” 14 So he sent there horses and chariots and a great army, and they came by night and surrounded the city.
15 When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” 16 He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” 17 Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 18 And when the Syrians came down against him, Elisha prayed to the Lord and said, “Please strike this people with blindness.” So he struck them with blindness in accordance with the prayer of Elisha. 19 And Elisha said to them, “This is not the way, and this is not the city. Follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom you seek.” And he led them to Samaria.
20 As soon as they entered Samaria, Elisha said, “O Lord, open the eyes of these men, that they may see.” So the Lord opened their eyes and they saw, and behold, they were in the midst of Samaria. 21 As soon as the king of Israel saw them, he said to Elisha, “My father, shall I strike them down? Shall I strike them down?” 22 He answered, “You shall not strike them down. Would you strike down those whom you have taken captive with your sword and with your bow? Set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink and go to their master.” 23 So he prepared for them a great feast, and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. And the Syrians did not come again on raids into the land of Israel.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (2 Ki 6:8-23). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

The Syrian Kings raided the land of Israel and every time it was thwarted because Elisha knew their plans. Elisha the servant of God was given great wisdom from God. Elisha shows his trust in God, even when everything seems to be going wrong. The armies of Syria come to kill the servant of God, but he prays for God to open the eyes of his servants. They can see that they do not stand alone. Elisha even prays for God to blind the army so that they will become their captives.

Think of all the people who have hurt you in your life. Think of all the people that may have fired you from a job or were promoted ahead of you. Think of all the people who you think have wronged you in some way. Now picture them coming after you with a great army. What would be the first thing you would do? Would you pray or run? Now God has opened your eyes to see the mighty army he uses to protect you. He has delivered your enemies into your hand. He has tied them up with a nice gift wrapped bow on top. What would you do? Would you torture them? Would you get your revenge against them?

God has come to visit with his enemies. He has come with a great army of one. He has come in the flesh to bind up all those things that threaten his creation. He has come to bind up blindness, diseases, epileptics, demons, and sin. He has come to destroy these and he does it not with chariots and horse men nor bow and sword. He comes to destroy your enemy through the Holy Sacrifice of Jesus Christ. In Christ Death he destroys these enemies. Are we to taunt them or pity them?

The Second Sunday after Epiphany (OT)

Exodus 18:13-27
13 The next day Moses sat to judge the people, and the people stood around Moses from morning till evening. 14 When Moses’ father-in-law saw all that he was doing for the people, he said, “What is this that you are doing for the people? Why do you sit alone, and all the people stand around you from morning till evening?” 15 And Moses said to his father-in-law, “Because the people come to me to inquire of God; 16 when they have a dispute, they come to me and I decide between one person and another, and I make them know the statutes of God and his laws.” 17 Moses’ father-in-law said to him, “What you are doing is not good. 18 You and the people with you will certainly wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you. You are not able to do it alone. 19 Now obey my voice; I will give you advice, and God be with you! You shall represent the people before God and bring their cases to God, 20 and you shall warn them about the statutes and the laws, and make them know the way in which they must walk and what they must do. 21 Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. 22 And let them judge the people at all times. Every great matter they shall bring to you, but any small matter they shall decide themselves. So it will be easier for you, and they will bear the burden with you. 23 If you do this, God will direct you, you will be able to endure, and all this people also will go to their place in peace.”
24 So Moses listened to the voice of his father-in-law and did all that he had said. 25 Moses chose able men out of all Israel and made them heads over the people, chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. 26 And they judged the people at all times. Any hard case they brought to Moses, but any small matter they decided themselves. 27 Then Moses let his father-in-law depart, and he went away to his own country.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Ex 18:13-27). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Moses finds himself overloaded with work. Everything can get to be a little too much when you have to judge all the people. Moses like any good boy asks his father-in-law for some good advice. The Father-in-law wisely tells him to enlist further help. God would have Moses set over the people elders or local leaders. Moses sets chiefs over hundreds, fifties and thousands who will be able to stand in judgement over these people.

God has enlisted his people to have leaders and Priests for millennia. Moses was to lead the people of Israel on their journey through the Wilderness and to the promise land. Later God would have King David Shepherd his people to lead them in time of struggle. Ezekiel talks about Watchmen and Shepherds who were supposed to lead the people of God. These people would help to judge what is right and wrong. These people are supposed to speak to the people of God his Holy Word.

You may not be set over thousands or hundreds but you have been called to speak the word of God. All Christians are called to tell the truth to the world. All Christians have been redeemed through the Blood of Christ and this is part of his holy Word. A Judge can proclaim or sentence one to judgment but he can also release one from judgment. Jesus Christ is our Great Judge and he has proclaimed to each of us death in Baptism and New Life through his forgiveness of your sins.

The Second Sunday after Epiphany (CL)

Matthew 4:18-25
18 While walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. 19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 21 And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. 22 Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.
23 And he went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. 24 So his fame spread throughout all Syria, and they brought him all the sick, those afflicted with various diseases and pains, those oppressed by demons, epileptics, and paralytics, and he healed them. 25 And great crowds followed him from Galilee and the Decapolis, and from Jerusalem and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan.
The Holy Bible : English standard version. 2001 (Mt 4:18-25). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.

Jesus Christ begins his ministry while Matthew summarizes his entire ministry. Simon who is called Peter or the rock is called to be a fisher of men. These Four (Simon, Andrew, James, and John) are first of the so called Apostles of Christ, but here they are called to follow. They immediately drop everything and follow him. When is the last time something came up and you dropped literally everything. James and John even leave their Father in the boat to mend his own nets.

I find that our lives are more along the lines of wait one minute and then I will be there. Maybe it is more like just one more thing or one more meeting and then I will get that done. Just put things off for one more year. But Jesus is standing in front of you right now, Are you ready to follow?

This is the one who heals the people of God. Jesus has come to make peace with the entire world. Jesus heals people from demon oppression. He makes the lame to walk. He brings the Kingdom of Heaven to where people are. He goes to the synagogues and street corners to announce to people the forgiveness of their diseases and demons. He is the one who has sacrificed himself to rule in His Kingdom and offer you the forgiveness of sins. Come and Follow him.