The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers with Commentaries for Sunday, November 5, 2023—Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost

 

The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers

with Commentaires
Sunday, November 5, 2023
Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost
[Ordinary 31, Proper 26]

Guided by Faith: God’s Enduring Presence

and Provision

Joshua 3:7-17; Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37;

1 Thessalonians 2:9-13; Matthew 23:1-12
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)

Introduction

In the tapestry of life's journeys and challenges, our relationship with God emerges as a constant source of guidance, strength, and provision. Through moments of trepidation and triumph, God demonstrates a ceaseless commitment to His people. The selected passages from Joshua, Psalms, Thessalonians, and Matthew collectively paint a portrait of a loving God who remains steadfast, urging His followers to exercise faith, gratitude, and humility.

In Joshua, we see a God who makes ways where there seem to be none, guiding the Israelites safely across the Jordan River. The psalmist reminds us to vocalize our gratitude for the Lord's redemptive actions and to acknowledge the transformation of barren lands into thriving environments. Paul's letter to the Thessalonians emphasizes the importance of receiving the word of God with joy, recognizing it as the ultimate truth. Meanwhile, Jesus's words in Matthew caution against hypocrisy and extol the virtues of humble servitude.

As we delve into these passages, let's reflect on the myriad ways God's hand is evident in our lives, leading us forward with faith, and consider how we might live in gratitude and humility in response to His boundless love.

Opening Prayer
(Psalm 107, Matthew 23)

Heavenly Father, we gather here, inspired by Your Word, acknowledging the steadfast love You have for Your creation, as echoed in Psalm 107. For You redeem us from trouble, satisfy the thirsty, and fill the hungry with good things. Every testimony of rescue and provision sings of Your unending mercy and boundless love.

Lord, as we reflect upon Matthew 23, may we be reminded of the weight of integrity, humility, and authenticity in our walks with You. Let us not be swayed by empty pride or blinded by outward appearances. Instead, help us to focus on the inside, the matters of the heart, where true righteousness begins.

Teach us, O Lord, to be humble in spirit, seeking not the accolades of man but the affirmations of Heaven. Protect us from hypocrisy and grant us the grace to lead with love, compassion, and truth.

May our gatherings be places of genuine worship, where pretense is left at the door, and hearts are bared open before You. Illuminate our path with Your Word, guide our hearts with Your love, and mold our actions in alignment with Your will.

In the name of Jesus, who exemplified humility, love, and authenticity in every word and deed, we pray. Amen.

Prayer of Confession
(Joshua 3, Psalm 107, Matthew 23)

Gracious and Merciful God, we come before You with humble hearts, recognizing the vastness of Your power and the depths of Your mercy. As we reflect upon Joshua leading the Israelites across the Jordan, witnessing Your strength and guidance, we too acknowledge our need for Your divine leadership in every facet of our lives.

Lord, in Psalm 107, we are reminded to "give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." Yet, amidst the wanderings of our hearts and the distractions of this world, we often forget to proclaim Your unfailing love and give thanks for Your countless blessings. For those moments when we feel lost in the wilderness or imprisoned by our doubts and fears, lead us back to the assurance of Your constant presence and unending grace.

In Matthew 23, Jesus, You unveiled the weighty contradictions of the scribes and Pharisees, highlighting their pursuit of honor and recognition above genuine humility and service. We confess, Lord, that we too, at times, prioritize our desires, titles, and outward appearances, forgetting Your call to be humble and serve others selflessly. We lose sight of the truth that “the greatest among us must be a servant.”

Forgive us, O God, for the times we stray from Your path, seeking affirmation from the world rather than finding our worth in You. Cleanse our hearts from pride and self-centeredness, and instill in us a spirit of humility and genuine love for others.

Let Your Word illuminate our steps, Your love be our anchor, and Your Spirit guide us in all righteousness. Help us to always seek Your will above all else and to shine Your light in a world longing for hope and truth.

In the redeeming name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, we pray. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon
(Matthew 23)

Dear brothers and sisters, in the book of Matthew, Jesus speaks of those who say but do not do, those who bind heavy burdens but do not lift a finger to help, and those who seek places of honor and recognition.

But hear the heart of the Gospel and the message of Christ: humility and service are the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. Though we sometimes fail, placing burdens on others and seeking our own glory, our gracious God sees our hearts and calls us to a transformative love.

Remember, it is Jesus who says, "The greatest among you will be your servant." It is He who demonstrates ultimate humility, taking on the very nature of a servant, to redeem us from our failings.

So, if today you feel the weight of pride, self-righteousness, or any other failing, hear this blessed assurance: In Christ, you are loved and forgiven. In Him, every burden is lifted, every prideful heart is humbled, and every seeking soul is satisfied.

Rest in the knowledge that God exalts the humble and gives grace to the repentant. Through the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ, you are pardoned.

Thanks be to God! Amen.

Introduction to the Word
(Joshua 3; Psalm 107)

Lord of ages and Keeper of our days, as we delve deeper into today's passages, let them be a reminder to each of us that no matter the challenges we face, God is with us. His love endures, His power is unmatched, and His plans for us are of prosperity and hope. Let us cling to these truths and let them guide our steps, knowing that in every situation, God is orchestrating His perfect will.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading

Joshua 3:7-17
Crossing into the promised land

The book of Joshua in the Old Testament chronicles the Israelites' entrance into the Promised Land following the death of Moses. One of the pivotal moments in this book is the crossing of the Jordan River, a miraculous event that echoed the earlier parting of the Red Sea during the exodus from Egypt. The passage from Joshua 3:7-17 recounts this dramatic episode, highlighting God's faithfulness to His people and reaffirming Joshua's leadership role.

7 And the Lord said to Joshua, “Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of all Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses. 8 Tell the priests who carry the ark of the covenant: ‘When you reach the edge of the Jordan’s waters, go and stand in the river.’”

9 Joshua said to the Israelites, “Come here and listen to the words of the Lord your God. 10 This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that he will certainly drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites and Jebusites. 11 See, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth will go into the Jordan ahead of you. 12 Now then, choose twelve men from the tribes of Israel, one from each tribe. 13 And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the Lord—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap.”

14 So when the people broke camp to cross the Jordan, the priests carrying the ark of the covenant went ahead of them. 15 Now the Jordan is at flood stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan and their feet touched the water’s edge, 16 the water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up in a heap a great distance away, at a town called Adam in the vicinity of Zarethan, while the water flowing down to the Sea of the Arabah (that is, the Dead Sea) was completely cut off. So the people crossed over opposite Jericho. 17 The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.

Commentary

Verse 7: Here, the LORD assures Joshua that He is with him, just as He was with Moses. The miraculous crossing of the Jordan River is set to serve a dual purpose: to demonstrate God's awesome power and to authenticate Joshua's leadership among the Israelites.

Verse 8: Joshua is instructed to command the priests, who carry the Ark of the Covenant, to step into the waters of the Jordan. The Ark, as the embodiment of God's presence, plays a central role in this miraculous event.

Verses 9-13: Joshua addresses the Israelites and uses this moment to call their attention to the living God who actively intervenes in human affairs. His emphasis on the “living God” underscores the contrast between Yahweh and the lifeless idols of the surrounding nations. The mention of the Ark of the Covenant driving out the inhabitants further demonstrates God's power and favor on the Israelites.

Verse 14: The people set out from their camp to cross the Jordan, with the priests bearing the Ark of the Covenant ahead of them. The order of movement here is significant. Just as the Ark represents God's presence, its position at the forefront indicates God's leadership in this endeavor.

Verse 15: The Jordan River, in its flood stage, was a considerable obstacle. Its overflowing banks suggest that this event is even more extraordinary because it occurs when the river is at its most challenging to cross.

Verse 16: Miraculously, as soon as the priests' feet touch the water, the upstream waters stand still and pile up at a distance, while the downstream waters are cut off, providing dry ground for the people to cross. This event recalls the parting of the Red Sea in the Exodus. In both instances, God's intervention enables safe passage for the Israelites against seemingly insurmountable barriers.

Verse 17: The priests stood on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan until all the Israelites had crossed over. Their stationary position in the center of the riverbed served as a constant reminder of God's presence and power during the entirety of the crossing.

In conclusion, Joshua 3:7-17 serves as a testament to God's unwavering commitment to the Israelites and His promise to bring them into the Promised Land. It also solidifies Joshua's leadership and demonstrates that the same God who acted mightily through Moses continues to guide, protect, and fight for His people through Joshua.

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

Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37
Thanks for a beautiful land

Psalm 107 is a heartfelt song of thanksgiving and praise, a reminder of the endless mercies and steadfast love of the Lord. It recounts the tales of those who have found themselves lost, in distress, or facing challenges, yet witnessed the unwavering grace and deliverance of God. As we delve into these verses today, may we be reminded of the countless times God has come to our aid, leading us from desolation to places of abundance. Let these verses stir gratitude in our hearts and encourage us to always give thanks to Him, for He is good.

1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; *
        his love endures forever.

2 Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story— *
        those he redeemed from the hand of the foe,

3 those he gathered from the lands, *
        from east and west, from north and south.

4 Some wandered in desert wastelands, *
        finding no way to a city where they could settle.

5 They were hungry and thirsty, *
        and their lives ebbed away.

6 Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, *
        and he delivered them from their distress.

7 He led them by a straight way *
        to a city where they could settle.

33 He turned rivers into a desert, *
        flowing springs into thirsty ground,

34 and fruitful land into a salt waste, *
        because of the wickedness of those  who lived there.

35 He turned the desert into pools of water *
        and the parched ground into flowing springs;

36 there he brought the hungry to live, *
        and they founded a city where they could settle.

37 They sowed fields and planted vineyards *
        that yielded a fruitful harvest;

Gracious and Eternal God, we raise our voices to give thanks for Your steadfast love endures forever. Your mercy knows no bounds, and Your faithfulness reaches to all corners of the earth.

In times of confusion, when we've lost our way, You, O Lord, have been our guiding light. To those who cry out, you have heard and rescued them from their distress. We acknowledge, with humility, how often we have strayed, seeking our path, only to find ourselves in desolate places, but You have never forsaken us.

You have turned deserts into springs of water, and wastelands into fertile grounds. Where there was once barrenness, You've brought forth abundance, allowing us to sow and reap the fruits of Your blessings.

As we witness the transformative power of Your love, we remain in awe. Continue to guide us, O Lord, so that we may prosper in the places You have established for us. Let our communities flourish by the streams You provide, and may we always remember to give thanks for Your unending love and mercy.

In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

Second Reading
From the Epistles

1 Thessalonians 2:9-13
The apostle’s teaching

The First Epistle to the Thessalonians is one of Paul's earliest letters and reflects his concerns and love for the young Christian community in Thessalonica. As the Apostle to the Gentiles, Paul had a unique ministry in establishing churches throughout the Mediterranean. Within this context, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13 offers insights into Paul's pastoral approach, his selfless dedication to the Gospel, and the way in which the Thessalonians received his message.

9 Surely you remember, brothers and sisters, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you. 10 You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed. 11 For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, 12 encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.

Commentary

1. Labor of Love: Paul emphasizes his hard work and dedication. By mentioning that he worked "night and day", he conveys that his efforts were not just during the convenient hours, but he labored tirelessly. This wasn't to boast about his own efforts, but rather to underscore the value he placed on sharing the gospel and ensuring that he wasn't a financial burden to the Thessalonians.

2. Holy Conduct: Paul asserts his integrity and sincerity by highlighting his conduct among the Thessalonians. He and his companions' behavior was "holy, righteous and blameless" —setting an example for the new believers. This was important to Paul, who saw himself as a spiritual father to many early Christian communities.

3. Fatherly Care: The imagery of a father dealing with his children is a powerful one. Paul depicts his relationship with the Thessalonians as intimate and nurturing. Just as a father might comfort, encourage, and urge his children towards right action, Paul has a deep desire to see the Thessalonians live lives that reflect the transformative power of the Gospel.

4. Reception of the Word: Paul's joy is evident in the way the Thessalonians received his message. Rather than seeing it as merely human words or wisdom, they recognized it as the very word of God. This speaks to the depth of their conversion and their openness to divine truth.

5. Active Word: Paul concludes by emphasizing the dynamic nature of the word of God. It isn't a passive message; it is "at work" in believers. This speaks to the transformative power of the Gospel, emphasizing that it's not just information but has the power to change lives.

In summary, these verses provide a profound look into Paul's deep pastoral care, his dedication to the mission, and the way in which the Thessalonians embraced the Gospel. It's a testament to the relationship between the messenger and the receiver and the transformative power of God's word.

Today’s Gospel Reading

Matthew 23:1-12
Humble yourselves

Matthew 23 stands as one of the most confrontational chapters in the New Testament. Jesus, in no uncertain terms, criticizes the religious leaders of His day, particularly the Pharisees and teachers of the law. The beginning of the chapter sets the stage for a series of "woes" that Jesus pronounces against these leaders. These verses give insight into the nature of genuine spiritual leadership and highlight the dangers of hypocrisy, pride, and self-exaltation.

23 Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: 2 “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. 4 They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them.

5 “Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; 6 they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; 7 they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.

8 “But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ for you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers. 9 And do not call anyone on earth ‘father,’ for you have one Father, and he is in heaven. 10 Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one Instructor, the Messiah. 11 The greatest among you will be your servant. 12 For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

Commentary

Verses 1-3: Here, Jesus acknowledges the authority of the Pharisees and teachers of the law in their official capacity – they "sit in Moses’ seat." This implies that they have a rightful role in teaching and interpreting the law. However, Jesus quickly cautions His listeners to differentiate between the teachings of these leaders and their actions. This stark differentiation highlights a core theme: the difference between outward appearance and genuine heart posture.

Verses 4-7: In these verses, Jesus critiques the religious leaders for their burdening regulations and their desire for outward show. The Pharisees were notorious for their meticulous observance of the Law and for adding numerous traditions and interpretations that, in many cases, made the Law even more burdensome for ordinary people. While maintaining an exterior of piety, they sought recognition, honor, and elevated status.

Verses 8-10: Jesus redirects His followers' attention from human titles and distinctions to the divine. By emphasizing the one Teacher, one Father, and one Instructor, He underscores the central role of God and Himself (the Messiah) in spiritual instruction and guidance. This is not a blanket prohibition against using terms like "father" or "teacher" in everyday contexts but rather a warning against seeking or giving undue spiritual authority to human titles.

Verses 11-12: Concluding this section, Jesus lays out a revolutionary principle of leadership and greatness in the kingdom of God: true greatness comes through service. This is a stark contrast to the world's understanding of leadership and authority. The path to exaltation in God's kingdom is through humility and service, not through seeking honor, recognition, or status.

In these verses, Jesus doesn't merely aim to criticize the religious leaders of His day. He offers a vision for a different kind of leadership — one that is grounded in humility, service, and genuine love for God and people. The challenge and invitation to believers are clear: be wary of religious performance, seek humility, and serve others.

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
(Joshua 3, Matthew 23)

May the Lord, who exalted Joshua in the sight of Israel, also lift you up as bearers of His name and ambassadors of His love. Just as the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the Ark of the Covenant, may every obstacle in your path be removed by the hand of God, allowing you to walk in His purpose and will.

Let humility be the cloak you wear, remembering the teachings of Christ: "The greatest among you will be your servant." In a world that seeks exaltation, may you find true greatness in service, love, and humility, knowing that "those who humble themselves will be exalted."

Go forth with the assurance that the God who parted the waters is with you. With Christ as your guide and humility as your compass, step into the world with a servant's heart, leading others to the kingdom of God by your example.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, go in peace and love, now and always. 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. 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, November 5, 2023
Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost Reformation Sunday
Guided by Faith: God’s Enduring Presence and Provision
Joshua 3:7-17; Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37; 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13; Matthew 23:1-12
In the tapestry of life's journeys and challenges, our relationship with God emerges as a constant source of guidance, strength, and provision. Through moments of trepidation and triumph, God demonstrates a ceaseless commitment to His people. The selected passages from Joshua, Psalms, Thessalonians, and Matthew collectively paint a portrait of a loving God who remains steadfast, urging His followers to exercise faith, gratitude, and humility.
In Joshua, we see a God who makes ways where there seem to be none, guiding the Israelites safely across the Jordan River. The psalmist reminds us to vocalize our gratitude for the Lord's redemptive actions and to acknowledge the transformation of barren lands into thriving environments. Paul's letter to the Thessalonians emphasizes the importance of receiving the word of God with joy, recognizing it as the ultimate truth. Meanwhile, Jesus's words in Matthew caution against hypocrisy and extol the virtues of humble servitude.
As we delve into these passages, let's reflect on the myriad ways God's hand is evident in our lives, leading us forward with faith, and consider how we might live in gratitude and humility in response to His boundless love.