The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers
with Commentaires
Sunday, October 29, 2023
Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost
[Ordinary 30, Proper 25]
Eternal Legacy: Transcending Time
and Generations
Deuteronomy 34:1-12; Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17;
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8; Matthew 22:34-46
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)
Introduction
In the tapestry of Scripture, we often see threads of eternity woven seamlessly through the narrative of human history. Our readings today present a panoramic view of the scope of God's dealings with humanity, from the fleeting nature of our existence to the everlasting legacy of great leaders. In Deuteronomy, we witness Moses' final moments, standing atop a mountain, glimpsing the Promised Land he would never enter. Psalms, the poetic expressions of the heart, remind us of the transience of human life but also of the eternal nature of God as our dwelling place. Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonians, recounts the genuine love and commitment with which the Gospel was shared. Lastly, Matthew's Gospel displays the profound wisdom of Jesus, affirming His authority over the greatest commandments and the intricate prophecies of old.As we delve into these passages, let's contemplate our own place within this grand narrative. What legacy are we creating? And how are we anchored in the eternal amidst the ephemeral moments of our lives?Father of Mercies
Opening Prayer
(Psalm 90, Matthew 22)
Eternal God, who has been our refuge throughout the ages,
We invoke Your presence with us as we draw upon the wisdom of Psalm 90. From generation to generation, before the mountains were born and the world came into being, You have been our steadfast shelter and strength. As we consider the fleeting nature of our lives, help us to truly number our days, that we might gain a heart of wisdom, seeking purpose and meaning in every moment.
Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer, in Matthew 22 you illuminated the path of love and understanding. Kindle in our hearts the greatest of all commands: to love You wholly and without reserve, and to extend that same unwavering love to our neighbors. Let this love be our guiding light, our compass in decision-making, and the very essence of our being.
As we gather in Your name, may our minds be transformed by Your eternal truths, and may our souls be touched by Your infinite grace. Open our hearts to truly grasp the depth of Your love and mercy. Let our lives be shaped by the commitment to love You above all and to see Your image in every face, acknowledging the inherent dignity and worth of all Your children.
Breathe into us Your Spirit, O Lord, that we might be renewed in purpose and passion. As the mountains stand firm by Your design and as the world turns in Your ordained rhythm, may we, too, find our grounding in Your eternal promises and live in harmony with Your divine will.
Bless our gathering today. May our words be seasoned with grace, our actions driven by love, and our paths directed by Your wisdom. As the shadows of doubt or fear attempt to overtake us, let Your eternal light be our beacon, guiding us towards truth, love, and unity.
In the precious name of Jesus, who teaches and empowers us to love beyond measure, we call upon Your presence and guidance. Amen.
Prayer of Confession
(Psalm 90, 1 Thessalonians 2, Matthew 22)
Eternal God, our refuge and strength, before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. We come before You today, acknowledging our transgressions and seeking Your mercy, as we reflect on today's teachings.
Lord, we confess that, like the Israelites in the wilderness, we often forget the brevity of life and the eternity of Your kingdom. We confess that we have not always numbered our days aright, that we might gain a heart of wisdom. Forgive us, O Lord, for the times we have lived for the moment, neglecting to seek Your will and Your glory.
We confess our failures in being gentle among one another, as a nurse tenderly cares for her own children. We have at times sought to please men rather than You, our God, who tests our hearts. We repent for not always being upright and blameless in our conduct, for not loving and serving others as Paul and his companions loved and served the Thessalonians.
We admit our shortcomings in loving You with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all our mind. We have not always loved our neighbors as ourselves, and in this, we have failed to fulfill the greatest commandment. We have at times been like the Pharisees, seeking to entangle You in Your talk, rather than humbling ourselves and accepting Your Word with open hearts.
Lord, we are but dust, and our days are like grass; we flourish like a flower of the field, and the wind passes over it, and it is gone. Yet, Your steadfast love is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear You, and Your righteousness to children’s children. We plead for Your forgiveness and mercy, cleanse our hearts and renew our spirits.
Guide us, O Lord, that we may walk in Your ways, sharing the gospel not only in word, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and with full conviction. Help us to cherish Your commandments and to love one another as You have loved us.
Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Satisfy us in the morning with Your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days. Let Your work be shown to Your servants, and Your glorious power to their children. May the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!
In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, we pray. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
(Psalm 90)
Beloved, in the vast timeline of God's existence, our mistakes are but a brief moment. But in that same vastness, His love for us is unwavering. When we confess our sins, when we seek His face, we are met with grace upon grace.
Therefore, know with certainty that in Christ, our sins are forgiven. Rejoice in the love and mercy of our everlasting God. Amen.
Introduction to the Word
(Deuteronomy 34, Psalm 90)
Lord of ages and Keeper of our days, as we journey through the narratives of today's readings, remind us of the fleeting nature of our earthly sojourn and the enduring promise of Your eternal presence. Just as Moses gazed upon the Promised Land with eyes full of hope and longing, let us too, look forward with faith, recognizing the transience of our days and the infinite expanse of Your timelessness. Grant us the wisdom to number our days aright, drawing strength and perspective from Your unchanging nature and the eternal truths of Your Word. Amen.
Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
Deuteronomy 34:1-12
Death of MosesDeuteronomy 34:1-12 serves as the conclusion of the Book of Deuteronomy and the end of the Pentateuch—the first five books of the Old Testament. This passage poignantly captures the final moments of Moses’ life, highlighting his unique relationship with God, his role in leading the Israelites, and the anticipation of the promised land that lies just out of his reach. As the readers, we witness the close of an era and the preparation for what's to come in the story of the Israelites.
34 Then Moses climbed Mount Nebo from the plains of Moab to the top of Pisgah, across from Jericho. There the Lord showed him the whole land—from Gilead to Dan, 2 all of Naphtali, the territory of Ephraim and Manasseh, all the land of Judah as far as the Mediterranean Sea, 3 the Negev and the whole region from the Valley of Jericho, the City of Palms, as far as Zoar. 4 Then the Lord said to him, “This is the land I promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob when I said, ‘I will give it to your descendants.’ I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it.”5
And Moses the servant of the Lord died there in Moab, as the Lord had said. 6 He buried him in Moab, in the valley opposite Beth Peor, but to this day no one knows where his grave is. 7 Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died, yet his eyes were not weak nor his strength gone. 8 The Israelites grieved for Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days, until the time of weeping and mourning was over.9
Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him. So the Israelites listened to him and did what the Lord had commanded Moses.10
Since then, no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face, 11 who did all those signs and wonders the Lord sent him to do in Egypt—to Pharaoh and to all his officials and to his whole land. 12 For no one has ever shown the mighty power or performed the awesome deeds that Moses did in the sight of all Israel. Commentary
Verses 1-3: These verses paint a vivid picture of Moses atop Mount Nebo, overlooking the Promised Land. God shows Moses the entire expanse of the land, from Gilead to Dan, stretching all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. It's a profound moment; Moses sees the realization of the promise God made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—yet he himself would not enter it.
Verses 4-6: The Lord reiterates that this is the land promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. However, Moses will only see it but not enter. Moses' death in the land of Moab, outside of the Promised Land, is a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience, as previously, due to his actions at Meribah, God decreed he would not enter the Promised Land.
Verses 7: This verse notes the remarkable health and vigor of Moses even at the age of 120. His eyesight was still intact, and he was not frail. This serves to underline that his death wasn't due to natural decline, but it was God's appointed time for him.
Verses 8: The mourning of the Israelites for thirty days denotes the deep respect and grief the people felt for their leader. This period was a traditional time of mourning, reflecting their sorrow at the loss of their great prophet.
Verses 9: Joshua's filling of the spirit of wisdom and the laying on of Moses' hands indicate the passing of leadership. The continuity of leadership was essential for the Israelites to maintain faith and direction as they move forward into the Promised Land.
Verses 10-12: These verses encapsulate the uniqueness of Moses' relationship with God and his unmatched prophetic role. The intimate manner in which God knew Moses—face to face—underscores the deep, unparalleled connection between the Lord and Moses. Additionally, the signs and wonders performed through Moses solidify his position as one of the greatest leaders and prophets in biblical history.
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 offers a poignant, bittersweet closure to Moses' journey. It simultaneously underscores the magnificence of God's promises, the reality of consequences for disobedience, and the hope in continued leadership through Joshua. Through the life and death of Moses, readers are reminded of God's faithfulness, justice, and unceasing guidance for His people.
A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17
Show your servants your worksPsalm 90 stands as a testament to God's eternity in contrast to human frailty. Attributed to Moses, it is a meditation on the transience of human life against the backdrop of the eternal nature of God. This selection of verses juxtaposes the temporal nature of humanity with the enduring nature of the Creator, emphasizing the fleeting moments of our lives compared to God's infinite timeline. It calls upon the Lord to have mercy, to extend His steadfast love, and to establish the work of human hands. As you read and reflect on these verses, consider the transient nature of your own life and the everlasting nature of God's love and presence.
1
Lord, you have been our refuge *
from one generation to another.2
Before the mountains were brought forth,
or the land and the earth were born, *
from age to age you are God.3
You turn us back to the dust and say, *
“Go back, O child of earth.”4
For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday
when it is past *
and like a watch in the night.5
You sweep us away like a dream; *
we fade away suddenly like the grass.6
In the morning it is green and flourishes; *
in the evening it is dried up and withered.13
Return, O LORD; how long will you tarry? *
be gracious to your servants.14
Satisfy us by your loving-kindness in the morning; *
so shall we rejoice and be glad all the days of our life.
15
Make us glad by the measure of the days that you afflicted us *
and the years in which we suffered adversity.16
Show your servants your works *
and your splendor to their children.17
May the graciousness of the LORD our God be upon us; *
prosper the work of our hands;
prosper our handiwork.Lord of Eternity, our Shelter through ages past, From the dawn of creation to this present moment, You remain our steadfast dwelling. Before the majestic mountains took their stand, Before the formation of the earth and the world, You have been God, timeless and infinite.In Your divine wisdom, You remind us of our mortality, Turning us to dust, whispering, "Return, children of the earth." A millennium to us is but an evening past to You, Time fleeting, a mere blink of Your eternal eye.Like the morning's fresh grass, we rise, Lush with potential and shimmering with dew's hope. But as the day wanes, we fade, A testament to life's ephemerality.Yet in our transience, we cry out: Return, O Lord! How much longer must we wait for Your fullness? Bathe us in Your enduring mercy, Fill our days with joy and gladness to match our trials and years of adversity.Let the next generation see Your deeds and grandeur, As we hope to reflect but a portion of Your splendor. May Your gracious favor, O God, be upon us, Strengthen our endeavors, make permanent what we initiate.For in every heartbeat, in every breath, we recognize Your eternal presence, In You, we seek meaning, purpose, and blessings for our transient days. Amen. Second Reading
From the Epistles
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8
The apostle’s concernThe Apostle Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians is one of the earliest New Testament writings. In this epistle, Paul writes to the church in Thessalonica, a community he helped establish on his second missionary journey. The church was young and facing various challenges, including persecution. Paul's objective was to encourage the Thessalonian believers in their faith, to commend them for their perseverance, and to offer guidance on living the Christian life.
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 provides a glimpse into Paul's ministry approach and the deep affection he held for the Thessalonian church. These verses help us understand the integrity, authenticity, and selflessness with which Paul and his companions approached their ministry. They also shed light on the intimate and nurturing relationship Paul had with the Thessalonian believers, likening it to the gentle care of a mother.
2 You know, brothers and sisters, that our visit to you was not without results. 2 We had previously suffered and been treated outrageously in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in the face of strong opposition. 3 For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. 4 On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. 5 You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. 6 We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority. 7 Instead, we were like young children among you.Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, 8 so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well. Commentary
- Verses 1-2: Paul begins by recalling their earlier visit to Thessalonica, emphasizing the positive outcomes of their preaching despite facing opposition and mistreatment in Philippi. He attributes their bold proclamation of the gospel to God's help and guidance.
- Verses 3-5: Paul underscores the sincerity and authenticity of their message. They did not come with deceit, ulterior motives, or a desire for personal gain. Their goal was not to deceive or manipulate the Thessalonians, but to share the truth of the gospel with integrity.
- Verse 4: Paul's mention of seeking to please God over people is significant. His motivation was rooted in a desire to be faithful to God's calling, regardless of how others might perceive or respond to him.
- Verse 6: Although Paul and his companions had the authority as Christ's apostles, they did not assert it or seek praise from the Thessalonians. This demonstrates their humility and genuine love for the people.
- Verses 7-8: Using the tender metaphor of a nursing mother, Paul illustrates the deep affection and care he and his companions had for the Thessalonian believers. Their willingness to share not only the gospel but also their lives shows the depth of their commitment to the church in Thessalonica.
In summary, this passage showcases the principles that underpinned Paul's ministry. It reveals a heart of genuine love, sacrifice, and commitment to the Thessalonian believers. Paul and his companions modeled an approach to ministry characterized by integrity, selflessness, and a deep desire to honor God in all they did.Today’s Gospel Reading
Matthew 22:34-46
Loving God and neighborThe Gospel of Matthew, one of the synoptic gospels, meticulously portrays Jesus' teachings, miracles, and His understanding of the Hebrew Scriptures. As the narrative progresses, Jesus’ ministry draws both admiration and opposition. Chapter 22 of Matthew is particularly intriguing, as it is set in the context of a series of confrontations between Jesus and the religious leaders in Jerusalem, just days before His crucifixion. In this passage, Jesus is tested with questions about the Law and then challenges His questioners regarding the Messiah's identity.
34
Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. 35 One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”37
Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”41
While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, 42 “What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?”“The son of David,” they replied.43
He said to them, “How is it then that David, speaking by the Spirit, calls him ‘Lord’? For he says,44
“‘The Lord said to my Lord:
“Sit at my right hand
until I put your enemies
under your feet.”’45
If then David calls him ‘Lord,’ how can he be his son?” 46 No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions. Commentary
This passage is densely packed with theological and cultural implications.In verses 34-40, a Pharisee, an expert in the law, poses a challenging question to Jesus. By asking about the greatest commandment, the Pharisee likely hoped to trap Jesus in His words or reveal a lack of understanding of the Mosaic Law. Jesus, however, responds with profound clarity and depth. He quotes from Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18, emphasizing the primacy of love towards God and fellow humans. His answer suggests that the entirety of God's commands can be summarized in love—love for God and love for neighbor. Jesus’ insight into the essence of the Law underscores the centrality of relationships in the divine economy.Then, in verses 41-46, Jesus shifts from being the one questioned to the questioner. He confronts the Pharisees about their understanding of the Messiah's lineage and role. By referencing Psalm 110:1, a text attributed to King David, Jesus challenges the traditional notion that the Messiah would be merely a political or military figure in the line of David. Instead, Jesus elevates the Messiah's status as one who is also divine, being addressed as "Lord" by David himself. This divine sonship puzzled the Pharisees, as they could not reconcile how the Messiah could be both David's son and his Lord.In both segments of this passage, Jesus demonstrates superior understanding and wisdom, showcasing His authority and knowledge of the Scriptures. While the religious leaders were seeking ways to entrap Him, Jesus consistently redirected their focus to the heart of God's revelation and purpose.Throughout the Gospel of Matthew, and particularly in this passage, readers are challenged to go beyond mere religious observance and to embrace a transformative relationship with God characterized by love, understanding, and commitment to His purposes. Here end the Readings
Click HERE to read today’s Holy Gospel Lesson message
The Nicene Creed
- We believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.
- And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, begotten from the Father before all ages, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made; of the same essence as the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; he became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and was made human. He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate; he suffered and was buried. The third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again with glory to judge the living and the dead. His kingdom will never end.
- And we believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life. He proceeds from the Father and the Son, and with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified. He spoke through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We affirm one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and to life in the world to come. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer
The Lord's Prayer - Our Father Who Art in Heaven
Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Holy Communion
Holy Communion
A nondenominational serving of bread and wine
Though no video can truly replace the experience of celebrating together in our places of worship, we know that where two or more are gathered, the Lord is present. This table is open to all who recognize Jesus Christ as healer and redeemer. This table is open to all who work to bring God’s Kingdom here on earth. No one is turned away because of life circumstances. No one is barred from this table. No one seeking God’s abundant grace and mercy is turned aside. We see before us the abundance that a life of faith offers as we respond to God’s everlasting mercy in prayer and deed.
Communion Prayer
(Philippians 2)
Pour out your Holy Spirit on us and on these gifts of bread and wine. Make them be for us the life and love of Christ, that we may be the body of Christ for the world, redeemed and unified by Christ’s love and grace. By your Spirit, make us one with Christ, one with one another, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory and we feast at your heavenly banquet. Through Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit in your holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty God, now and forevermore. Amen.
Benediction
(Matthew 22)
Beloved, as we depart from this sacred gathering, let us carry with us the words of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who taught us the greatest commandments. May your hearts be aflame with love for the Lord, your God, with every ounce of your being, with every thought, and with every breath. Let this divine love overflow, enriching the lives of your neighbors, reflecting the light of God’s love to every corner of the world.May you remember that every person is your neighbor, no matter how far or how different, and that to love them is to fulfill the law of Christ. Embrace them with kindness, treat them with dignity, and serve them with joy, for in doing so, you embody the love of Christ.As you step forth, may the Holy Spirit guide your actions, fuel your love, and sharpen your understanding. Let your days be filled with purpose, your actions be steeped in love, and your words carry the grace of the Lord. Delve into the Scriptures, seek the wisdom therein, and let the teachings of Jesus inform your every step.Remember the Messiah, the Son of David, our eternal high priest. May His teachings enlighten your path, and may His sacrifice fortify your faith. Be steadfast in your love for God, unwavering in your love for your neighbors, and unyielding in your pursuit of righteousness.Go in peace, knowing that you are held in the loving embrace of the Almighty, protected by His grace, and guided by His wisdom. May the Lord bless you and keep you; may He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; may He turn His face toward you and give you peace, now and forevermore.In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, go forth in love, live in peace, and be a beacon of hope and joy to the world. Amen.Made New
Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets].
The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from
The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Responsive Readings from the
Common Book of Prayer (1789). Commentaries by Rev. Kenny Sallee, ThM.
The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year A. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2023, we will be in Year B. The year which ended at Advent 2022 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship.
Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts.
www.commontexts.orgThe Sunday Lectionary and Prayers for Sunday, October 29, 2023
Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost
Eternal Legacy: Transcending Time and Generations
Deuteronomy 34:1-12; Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17; 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8; Matthew 22:34-46
In the tapestry of Scripture, we often see threads of eternity woven seamlessly through the narrative of human history. Our readings today present a panoramic view of the scope of God's dealings with humanity, from the fleeting nature of our existence to the everlasting legacy of great leaders. In Deuteronomy, we witness Moses' final moments, standing atop a mountain, glimpsing the Promised Land he would never enter. Psalms, the poetic expressions of the heart, remind us of the transience of human life but also of the eternal nature of God as our dwelling place. Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonians, recounts the genuine love and commitment with which the Gospel was shared. Lastly, Matthew's Gospel displays the profound wisdom of Jesus, affirming His authority over the greatest commandments and the intricate prophecies of old.
As we delve into these passages, let's contemplate our own place within this grand narrative. What legacy are we creating? And how are we anchored in the eternal amidst the ephemeral moments of our lives?
