Lectionary thoughts for Proper 26

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 26 A
Micah 3: 5 - 12

We live in an age which challenges the very idea of the Christian concept of "the truth". In writing this I am conscious of the multiplicity of ways in which events, objects and ideas can be viewed. Whilst a great many of these will be intensely subjective, nevertheless there will remain, in every case, a core of data which will be common to all the interpretations.

It is the failure, of far too many, to recognise this that has led to the numerous, utterly false, concepts that are devaluing our faith and the societies that have grown from it. Thus we see the resurgence of such nonsenses as astrology, crystal power, lay lines, etc. etc.

We, as Christians, need to be much more positive about our faith in Christ. We need to be better informed on the teaching in the New Testament. We need to be more aware of the wonder of God's work in the Creation.

None of the other world faiths, and certainly none of the many 'philosophies' hold the hope for humanity that is to be found through faith in Christ.

Proper 26 A
Psalm 43

How can a sinner know
The Love of Christ bestowed
Unless in faith he/she place
His/Her life on earth below
And offer all that's owed
To Jesus face to face.

How can relationship
With God be personal
Unless in faith we place
Our joy and our hardship
The things both great and small
Before God, face to face.

How can we sing God's praise
Or honour God today
Unless in faith we place
God central to our days;
Walk with God all the way
And know God face to face.

Proper 26 A
1 Thessalonians 2: 9 - 13
suggested tune "Saint Albinus"

Proclaim the good news of God's
Love for us in all creation.
Faith that works, against all odds
Giving, to each one, salvation.
Alleluia.

But, this is no strident note,
For we must be kind and gentle
Not thrust doctrine down the throat
But, like Christ be complemental.
Alleluia.

Let us all then thank our God
For the good news we have all heard;
That God's Son our way has trod
And has taught us to live his Word.
Alleluia.

Proper 26 A
Matthew 24: 1 - 14

In this house, O Lord our God,
Here we offer thanks and praise.
Here the word of Life is spoken,
Here the bread of life is broken.
Here we offer all our days
In the service of our God.

From this house, O Lord our God,
Out we go to offer service.
Out for love of friend and neighbour;
Out in love of Christ our saviour.
Out but far from spiritless,
In the service of our God.