The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers with Commentaries for Sunday, October 15, 2023—Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost

 

The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers

with Commentaires
Sunday, October 15, 2023
Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost

The Folly of Impatience, The Power of Intercession, and The Call to Rejoice

Exodus 32:1-14; Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23;

Philippians 4:1-9; Matthew 22:1-14
[Ordinary 28, Proper 23]
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)

Introduction

In this collection of biblical passages, we encounter contrasting elements of human frailty and divine providence, all against the backdrop of God's unchanging character. Exodus 32:1-14 exposes the fickle nature of humanity as the Israelites, unable to wait for Moses, turn to idol worship. Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 recalls the same event, acknowledging human failure but also highlighting God's mercy due to the intercession of Moses. Philippians 4:1-9 is an exhortation from Paul, urging believers to turn away from anxiety and instead focus on joy and peace through prayer and thanksgiving. Matthew 22:1-14 tells the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, which can be read as a cautionary tale against rejecting God's invitation or taking it lightly.

These passages together speak of the dangers of impatience, the redemptive power of intercession, and the overarching call to rejoice in God's providence. They ask us to confront our human weaknesses, yet in doing so, they also usher us into a space of grace and rejoicing. Through the intercession of righteous people and the open invitation from God, we are reminded that while human follies persist, God’s offer of grace and peace remains constant. Therefore, these passages collectively offer a rich tapestry of lessons about human failings, divine mercy, and the peace that surpasses all understanding, inviting us to a transformative journey of faith.

Opening Prayer
(Psalm 106, Philippians 4)

Holy God, we come before you this day with praise on our lips and songs of joy in our hearts. When we abide in your kingdom and live according to your ways, good triumphs over evil, love is stronger than hate, and truth wins the day. Focus our hearts and minds on things that are worthy of praise, and bless us with a peace that passes all understanding. Amen.

Call to Confession
(Psalm 106, Philippians 4)

We seek your goodness, O God, for we search our hearts and find them wanting. We seek your joy, source of mirth and laughter, for our limbs are weary and our hearts are heavy. Set our minds on things that are excellent, admirable, and worthy of praise. Shine the light of your love far and wide, that the world might strive after things that are just, righteous, and true. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon
(Philippians 4)

The peace of God, which passes all understanding, is ours through Christ Jesus. Rest secure in this assurance, for it is trustworthy and true.

Introduction to the Word
(Philippians 4)

As we listen for the word of God, may our thoughts linger on what is honorable and true, just and pure, pleasing and commendable, excellent and worthy of praise.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading

Exodus 32:1-14
The golden calf

Exodus 32:1-14 is one of the most pivotal and dramatic episodes in the biblical narrative. As Moses is on Mount Sinai receiving the Law from God, the Israelites, led by Aaron, create a golden calf to worship. This event starkly contrasts the divine-human interaction on the mountaintop with the impulsive idolatry at the base of the mountain. It's a story that speaks to the human proclivity toward impatience, a lack of faith, and the ease with which people can forget God’s previous acts of deliverance. At the same time, this passage also highlights the power of intercession, as Moses pleads with God to spare the Israelites.

32 When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, “Come, make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him.”

2 Aaron answered them, “Take off the gold earrings that your wives, your sons and your daughters are wearing, and bring them to me.” 3 So all the people took off their earrings and brought them to Aaron. 4 He took what they handed him and made it into an idol cast in the shape of a calf, fashioning it with a tool. Then they said, “These are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.”

5 When Aaron saw this, he built an altar in front of the calf and announced, “Tomorrow there will be a festival to the Lord.” 6 So the next day the people rose early and sacrificed burnt offerings and presented fellowship offerings. Afterward they sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in revelry.

7 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Go down, because your people, whom you brought up out of Egypt, have become corrupt. 8 They have been quick to turn away from what I commanded them and have made themselves an idol cast in the shape of a calf. They have bowed down to it and sacrificed to it and have said, ‘These are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.’

9 “I have seen these people,” the Lord said to Moses, “and they are a stiff-necked people. 10 Now leave me alone so that my anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them. Then I will make you into a great nation.”

11 But Moses sought the favor of the Lord his God. “Lord,” he said, “why should your anger burn against your people, whom you brought out of Egypt with great power and a mighty hand? 12 Why should the Egyptians say, ‘It was with evil intent that he brought them out, to kill them in the mountains and to wipe them off the face of the earth’? Turn from your fierce anger; relent and do not bring disaster on your people. 13 Remember your servants Abraham, Isaac and Israel, to whom you swore by your own self: ‘I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and I will give your descendants all this land I promised them, and it will be their inheritance forever.’” 14 Then the Lord relented and did not bring on his people the disaster he had threatened.

Commentary

Impatience and Forgetfulness:
"When the people saw that Moses was so long in coming down from the mountain, they gathered around Aaron and said, 'Come, make us gods who will go before us.'" The Israelites grow impatient waiting for Moses. Their impatience leads them to forget the God who had parted the Red Sea and provided manna in the desert.

Human Leadership and Its Pitfalls:
Aaron’s role in this story is complex. He seemingly gives in to the people's demands without much resistance, asking them for gold to construct the calf. His acquiescence illustrates how even spiritual leaders can falter, especially under pressure from the community.

Idolatry and Apostasy:
The construction of the golden calf represents a betrayal of the first two of the Ten Commandments, which explicitly prohibit the worship of other gods and making graven images. This act signifies not just a momentary lapse in judgment but a fundamental breach of the covenant between God and Israel.

God's Righteous Anger:
God tells Moses that He wants to destroy the Israelites and make a great nation from Moses. This isn't a capricious wrath but a righteous anger against a people who have quickly abandoned their covenantal commitments.

The Power of Intercession:
Moses' response is an urgent plea for God to remember His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Israel (Jacob). Moses does not justify the Israelites' actions but rather appeals to God’s character and promises. His successful intercession underlines the biblical theme that righteous individuals can have a transformative impact through prayer.

The Inviolability and Flexibility of Divine Justice:
God listens to Moses and relents, showing that while divine justice is inviolable, it is also flexible when met with sincere repentance and intercession. This marks the interplay between God's justice and mercy, which continues to be a theme throughout the Bible.

Covenant Relationship:
This episode underscores the gravitas of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. While it involves blessings and promises, it also entails obligations and faithfulness. When human beings fail in upholding their end of the covenant, the narrative demonstrates that divine mercy remains an essential aspect of this relationship.

Conclusion
Exodus 32:1-14 serves as a profound lesson on the dangers of impatience and the ease with which faith can falter. Yet, it also offers hope by illustrating the transformative power of righteous intercession before a merciful God. It serves as a timeless reminder of both human frailty and divine steadfastness.

A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions

Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23
God’s favor for the people

Psalm 106 is a hymn of praise and remembrance, highlighting God's steadfast love and mercy alongside the failings and sins of His people. This particular selection—verses 1-6 and 19-23—captures the essence of God's graciousness and human shortcomings. The first few verses serve as a call to give thanks to the Lord for His enduring love and wondrous deeds. Yet, the Psalm is also candid about human imperfection, recalling moments when the Israelites turned away from God, even to the point of idol worship. This juxtaposition provides a humbling reminder: despite our failings, God's love remains constant, and His readiness to intervene for our salvation is everlasting.

1 Hallelujah!
      Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, *
    for his mercy endures for ever.

2 Who can declare the mighty acts of the LORD *
    or show forth all his praise?

3 Happy are those who act with justice *
    and always do what is right!

4 Remember me, O LORD, with the favor you have
      for your people, *
    and visit me with your saving help;

5 That I may see the prosperity of your elect
      and be glad with the gladness of your people, *
    that I may glory with your inheritance.

6 We have sinned as our forebears did; *
    we have done wrong and dealt wickedly.

19 Israel made a bull-calf at Horeb *
     and worshiped a molten image;

20 And so they exchanged their Glory *
     for the image of an ox that feeds on grass.

21 They forgot God their Savior, *
     who had done great things in Egypt,

22 Wonderful deeds in the land of Ham, *
     and fearful things at the Red Sea.

23 So he would have destroyed them,
       had not Moses his chosen stood before him in the breach, *
     to turn away his wrath from consuming them.

Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of awe and gratitude, recognizing Your everlasting love and faithfulness, as depicted in Psalm 106. Your goodness knows no bounds, and Your mercy endures forever. You alone are deserving of our praise, and we are grateful for the countless times You've shown us Your grace.

Lord, we also acknowledge our shortcomings, as expressed by the Psalmist. Like the Israelites who turned to a golden calf in a moment of impatience and forgetfulness, we too have moments where we stray from Your path. We confess that we have sinned against You in thought, word, and deed. We have failed to love You with our whole hearts and have failed to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Yet, Father, we are reminded of Your great mercies and Your willingness to save, even in times of rebellion. You listened to Moses as he stood in the breach to intercede for Your people. We pray that You would listen to our prayers of intercession today. Be merciful to us, our families, our communities, and our world, which so desperately needs Your grace.

Father, raise up men and women who will stand in the gap for their loved ones and communities, just as Moses did for the Israelites. Fill them with wisdom, courage, and love, that they may be effective instruments of Your mercy.

And Lord, help us to learn from the lessons of the past, that we may live more faithfully in the present. Guide us in Your ways, so we do not exchange Your eternal truths for the fleeting idols of this world.

May we never cease to be amazed by Your steadfast love and mercy. And may our lives be a continual hymn of praise to You, the One who was, who is, and who is to come.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Second Reading
From the Epistles

Philippians 4:1-9
Rejoice in the Lord always

Philippians 4:1-9 is a rich and comforting passage that serves as both an exhortation and a guideline for Christian living. The Apostle Paul, writing from a prison cell, addresses the Philippian church with words of encouragement, urging them to stand firm in their faith, to live in harmony, and to practice virtues that lead to peace and contentment. The passage concludes with one of the most well-known biblical assurances about the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. This section is not merely doctrinal but offers practical wisdom for everyday Christian life.

4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!

2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.

4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Commentary

Unity and Harmony (Verse 1-3):
Paul begins by imploring the Philippians to "stand firm in the Lord," an encouragement that gains weight when considering his own imprisonment. He also addresses a specific conflict between two women, Euodia and Syntyche, urging them to reconcile. This points to the necessity of unity within the Christian community, a unity grounded in the Lord.

Joy and Gentleness (Verse 4-5):
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" Despite his circumstances, Paul exhorts the Philippians to be joyful, emphasizing that this joy is rooted in the Lord, not in earthly circumstances. He also encourages gentleness, likely as a way of maintaining good relationships within the community and as a witness to those outside it.

The Antidote to Anxiety (Verse 6-7):
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Paul presents a formula to counter anxiety: prayer, petition, and thanksgiving. The promise that follows is profound — the peace of God, which transcends human understanding, will guard the hearts and minds of those who turn to Him.

The Discipline of Mind (Verse 8):
Paul offers a checklist of virtues to think about—whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy. This is an intentional discipline of the mind, designed to focus the believer's thoughts on virtues that reflect God's nature.

The Practice of Virtue (Verse 9):
Paul wraps up the passage by urging the Philippians not just to hear his teachings, but to put them into practice. Wisdom is not just in knowing the right thing but in doing it. And when one practices these virtues, the "God of peace" will be with them.

Conclusion
In summary, Philippians 4:1-9 serves as a comprehensive guide for Christian living, touching upon unity, joy, gentleness, prayerfulness, and virtue. While the challenges to embody these qualities are real, so too is the promise: the peace of God and the God of peace will be with those who strive to live out these principles. This passage encourages us to turn our focus away from anxiety and division, directing it instead toward the divine virtues that bring peace and unity to our lives.

Today’s Gospel Reading

Matthew 22:1-14
The parable of the unwelcome guest

Matthew 22:1-14 contains the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, a powerful and multi-layered story told by Jesus to convey the kingdom of heaven's dynamics. In this parable, a king invites guests to his son's wedding banquet, but the invitees reject the invitation. The king then opens the doors to everyone, only to find that one guest is not dressed appropriately for the occasion. This parable can be understood as a commentary on Israel's relationship with God, the universal invitation of the Gospel, and the responsibilities that come with accepting God's grace.

22 Jesus spoke to them again in parables, saying: 2 “The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding banquet for his son. 3 He sent his servants to those who had been invited to the banquet to tell them to come, but they refused to come.

4 “Then he sent some more servants and said, ‘Tell those who have been invited that I have prepared my dinner: My oxen and fattened cattle have been butchered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding banquet.’

5 “But they paid no attention and went off—one to his field, another to his business. 6 The rest seized his servants, mistreated them and killed them. 7 The king was enraged. He sent his army and destroyed those murderers and burned their city.

8 “Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding banquet is ready, but those I invited did not deserve to come. 9 So go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.’ 10 So the servants went out into the streets and gathered all the people they could find, the bad as well as the good, and the wedding hall was filled with guests.

11 “But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. 12 He asked, ‘How did you get in here without wedding clothes, friend?’ The man was speechless.

13 “Then the king told the attendants, ‘Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

14 “For many are invited, but few are chosen.”

Commentary

The Initial Invitation (Verses 1-3):
The king, often interpreted as representing God, sends out invitations for a wedding banquet for his son. The invited guests are understood to be the Israelites, to whom God first revealed Himself. Their refusal to come even after multiple calls shows a rejection of God's invitation to partake in His blessings and kingdom.

Ignoring and Mistreating the Messengers (Verses 4-6):
When the invitees ignore or mistreat the king's servants—parallels to the prophets in Israel's history—it shows the severity of their rejection of God's grace and blessings. This part of the parable reflects how the Israelite leaders have historically ignored or mistreated the prophets sent to guide them back to God.

The Wrath of the King (Verse 7):
The king's reaction of sending troops to destroy the murderers and burn their city could be seen as a prophetic announcement of the impending judgment on Jerusalem, which happened in AD 70. This warns that rejecting God's invitation is not without consequence.

The Universal Invitation (Verses 8-10):
After the initial invitees refuse to come, the king opens the banquet to anyone willing to attend, symbolizing the extension of God’s invitation to all people, Jew and Gentile alike. This reflects the universal scope of the Gospel.

Dressed for the Occasion (Verses 11-13):
The man found not wearing wedding clothes is thrown out, indicating that it's not enough just to accept the invitation; one must also prepare and live in a manner worthy of the kingdom. This could symbolize the righteousness and transformation expected in the life of a believer.

Many Are Called, Few Are Chosen (Verse 14):
This famous phrase encapsulates the message of the parable. While the invitation to God's kingdom is open to all, not everyone chooses to prepare themselves and live in accordance with that call. Therefore, being "chosen" also involves our response to God’s invitation.

Conclusion
In summary, the Parable of the Wedding Banquet in Matthew 22:1-14 serves as both a warning and an invitation. It warns against the peril of rejecting God's call and highlights the universal scope of God's gracious invitation through the Gospel. However, it also points out that accepting this invitation comes with the responsibility to live in a way that honors God. The story is a compelling reminder of God's boundless grace, the universal scope of His redemptive plan, and the serious implications of either accepting or rejecting His call.

Here end the Readings

Click HERE to read today’s Holy Gospel Lesson message

The Nicene Creed

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
(Philippians 4)

May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. May you rejoice in the Lord always, and may your gentleness be evident to all. As you face the days ahead, let your anxieties be transformed into prayers and petitions, offered with thanksgiving to God.

May your thoughts be filled with whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. And may the God of peace be with you, as you put into practice the things you have learned and received, heard and seen in the word and in the lives of the faithful.

Go forth, stand firm in the Lord, and may His grace accompany you today, tomorrow, and always.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

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.org
The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers for Sunday, October 15, 2023
Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost
The Folly of Impatience, The Power of Intercession, and The Call to Rejoice
Exodus 32:1-14; Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23; Philippians 4:1-9; Matthew 22:1-14
In today's scriptural selections, we delve into a vivid contrast between human shortcomings and divine constancy, all set against the immutable nature of God. The passage from Exodus reveals the Israelites' impulsive behavior as they resort to idolatry while waiting for Moses. The Psalm echoes this historical moment, acknowledging human weakness yet spotlighting God's merciful intervention through Moses. The text from Philippians serves as Paul's heartfelt plea for believers to eschew anxiety and embrace a life of joy, peace, prayer, and gratitude. Lastly, the Gospel of Matthew presents the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, a cautionary tale warning against the rejection or casual acceptance of God's gracious invitation. Together, these readings illuminate the perils of impatience, the transformative potential of intercession, and a universal call to find joy in God's unfailing care. They challenge us to face our human vulnerabilities but also guide us towards a haven of grace and joy. Through the advocacy of righteous individuals and God's continual invitation to communion, we find that despite human lapses, God's offerings of grace and serenity endure. Consequently, these texts collectively weave a rich narrative on human imperfections, divine compassion, and the transcendent peace that comes from a committed faith journey.