Lectionary thoughts for Proper 13

This, very mixed, collection of ideas are the result of looking at the Lectionary readings and noting the thoughts that 'popped' into my mind. I have, very deliberately, not tried to 'polish' them in any way, mainly because I lack the finesse necessary.

Year A

Proper 13 A
Isaiah 55: 1 - 5

The Lord has prepared a marvellous feast
Of bread and of wine there is none but the best.
The price for all this he has paid in himself;
All glory to our Lord.

The Lord has spoken his wonderful Word
Rich new life is found when that Word is observed.
The Word is embodied in Jesus the Son;
All glory to our Lord.

The Lord has given his Gospel to tell
Of a covenant faith that keeps us from hell.
The Spirit of God is the power we have.
All glory to our Lord.

Proper 13A
Psalm 145: 8,9, 14 - 21

The compassion of God is really
Quite amazing.

The graciousness of God is stunningly
Long-suffering.

The faithfulness of God is utterly
Universal.

The promises of God are absolutely
Unchanging.

The strength we have from God is
Just towering.

The praises due to God are
All embracing.

Proper 13A
Romans 9: 1 - 5

Do we suffer "great grief and unceasing sorrow" at the unbelief of others? Or have we been brain-washed by 'political correctness' into the bland acceptance of 'other ways to God'?
If our Lord and Saviour Jesus is indeed "the son of God" then the idea of 'other ways to God' needs very critical examination.
If 'other ways to God' is a valid concept then what is the point of the crucifixion and the resurrection?
Being a Christian I am biased; consequently I perceive ALL other religions as, in some way, defective. However I do have to recognise that they do, to some extent, meet the need for a 'religious outlet' in the [people who follow them.
If we believe that the 'Way of Christ' is the best, not to say the only, way to God, then our duty is to propagate it as vigorously as we can.

Proper 13A
Matthew 14: 13 - 21

What can we offer our dear Lord?
Ourselves, and ask him for his grace.
Become the people of his word
Filled with his power to sing his praise.

Use all our gifts, each one, in love
To spread the Gospel message out;
The blot of greed from earth remove and
And from our sin to turnabout.

Follow our Lord in his blest way.
Thus through his Spirit do his will;
Spread in the earth his light of day;
The life of each his presence fill.

Give glory to our heavenly Lord;
Live by the Holy Spirit's power,
Sing praise to Jesus, God's own Word;
No sin can then us overpower.