The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers with Commentaries for Sunday, November 12, 2023—Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

 

The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers

with Commentaires
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost
[Ordinary 32, Proper 27]

Legacy of Faith: Choosing and Preparing for the Promised Eternity

Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25; Psalm 78:1-7;

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Matthew 25:1-13
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)

Introduction

In the rich tapestry of scripture, there are stories that draw us into a reflection on our past, our present choices, and our eternal future. Today's readings take us on a journey through time and decision, emphasizing the importance of heeding God's call, the legacy of faith passed down through generations, and the urgency of preparing for Christ's return. From Joshua reminding the Israelites of their history and urging them to choose whom they will serve, to Psalm 78's call to pass the stories of God's work down to future generations, to Paul comforting the Thessalonians about those who have died and assuring them of the great gathering at Christ's return, and finally, Jesus Himself illustrating the necessity of being ready for the awaited banquet—we are consistently pointed towards a profound truth: our choices matter and they echo into eternity. Let us dive deep into these passages, reflecting on our own commitment to God, the legacy we are leaving, and our preparation for the eternal promises ahead.

Opening Prayer
(Matthew 25, 1 Thessalonians 4)

Heavenly Father, we gather here today, drawing inspiration from the teachings found in Matthew 25 and 1 Thessalonians 4. We are reminded, Lord, of the parable of the ten virgins, the talents, and the sheep and the goats. Guide us to be always prepared, to use the gifts You have given us responsibly, and to show love to the "least of these" as if we were serving You directly.

As Paul encouraged the Thessalonians, let us lead lives that please You, avoiding the traps of earthly desires and seeking to live in holiness and honor. Comfort our hearts with the hope of the resurrection, knowing that those who have passed will be united with You and that we, too, shall one day join them in the clouds to be with You forever.

Help us, Father, to be a reflection of Your love and mercy. May our lives be a testimony to Your grace, and may we be ever watchful, faithful, and loving in all that we do.

In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Prayer of Confession
(Psalm 78, Matthew 25, 1 Thessalonians 4)

Eternal and Merciful God, in humility, we approach Your throne of grace, recognizing that we have often forgotten Your works, turned away from Your teachings, and failed to pass down Your stories of faithfulness to the next generation. We confess that we have allowed our hearts to be stubborn, our spirits to wander, and our ears to become deaf to Your calling.

You taught us the significance of readiness, of serving the least among us, and of utilizing the gifts You’ve bestowed upon us. Yet, Lord, we often find ourselves unprepared for Your coming, neglecting the needy, and burying our talents in fear. Forgive us, Father, for our complacency and for not recognizing You in the face of the stranger, the hungry, the thirsty, and the imprisoned.

You have called us, Lord, to live lives of sanctification, to love one another deeply, and to encourage each other with words of hope. We confess that we sometimes live to please ourselves, faltering in our love for one another, and at times spreading words of discouragement rather than of hope.

Lord, cleanse our hearts. May we remember Your deeds of old, strive to be diligent in our watchfulness, serve You by serving others, and live in a manner that pleases You. Let our lives be a testament to Your grace, a reflection of Your love, and a beacon of hope in a world that so desperately needs it.

In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon
(Matthew 25)

Beloved, in the parable of the ten virgins, Jesus speaks of preparedness and the importance of readiness for the coming of the Kingdom. The wise virgins were those who remained vigilant, ensuring their lamps were filled with oil.

Let this serve as a reminder that, even though we might falter and find ourselves unprepared at times, God's mercy and grace are unending. When we confess our shortcomings and turn our hearts to Him, God's forgiveness shines brightly, filling the darkest corners of our lives.

Be assured today that, if in your heart you genuinely seek God, keep vigil in faith and strive to be prepared for His coming, He will not turn you away. Instead, He will open the door and welcome you into His eternal banquet.

Hear now this assurance: God is merciful and forgiving. No matter how many times we find ourselves unprepared or faltering, His grace is sufficient to cleanse and renew us. Rest in the promise that, in Christ, we are forgiven, embraced, and eternally loved. Amen.

Introduction to the Word
(Psalm 78)

As we prepare our hearts to dive into today's scripture lessons, let us be guided by the wisdom and reflections found in Psalm 78. This maskil of Asaph is more than just a historical recounting of Israel's journey. It's a mirror, reflecting both God's unwavering faithfulness and humanity's recurrent shortcomings. As we engage with the Word today, Psalm 78 encourages us to remember the past not as distant stories, but as lessons rich with wisdom and truth. Today's readings are not just verses on a page; they are a roadmap, guiding us closer to God's heart and His purpose for our lives.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading

Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25
Joshua calls Israel to serve God

The Book of Joshua records the history of the Israelites as they enter and conquer the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, the successor to Moses. One of the key themes of the book is the importance of faithfulness to God and obedience to His commands. In Joshua 24, we encounter a climactic moment as Joshua gathers all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. In this assembly, Joshua recounts their shared history and challenges the people to choose their allegiance. This chapter serves as a final exhortation, a call to commitment, and a defining moment for the nation of Israel.

24 1 Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. He summoned the elders, leaders, judges and officials of Israel, and they presented themselves before God.

2 Joshua said to all the people, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘Long ago your ancestors, including Terah the father of Abraham and Nahor, lived beyond the Euphrates River and worshiped other gods. 3 But I took your father Abraham from the land beyond the Euphrates and led him throughout Canaan and gave him many descendants.

14 “Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. 15 But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

16 Then the people answered, “Far be it from us to forsake the Lord to serve other gods! 17 It was the Lord our God himself who brought us and our parents up out of Egypt, from that land of slavery, and performed those great signs before our eyes. He protected us on our entire journey and among all the nations through which we traveled. 18 And the Lord drove out before us all the nations, including the Amorites, who lived in the land. We too will serve the Lord, because he is our God.”

19 Joshua said to the people, “You are not able to serve the Lord. He is a holy God; he is a jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins. 20 If you forsake the Lord and serve foreign gods, he will turn and bring disaster on you and make an end of you, after he has been good to you.”

21 But the people said to Joshua, “No! We will serve the Lord.”

22 Then Joshua said, “You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen to serve the Lord.”

“Yes, we are witnesses,” they replied.

23 “Now then,” said Joshua, “throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the Lord, the God of Israel.”

24 And the people said to Joshua, “We will serve the Lord our God and obey him.”

25 On that day Joshua made a covenant for the people, and there at Shechem he reaffirmed for them decrees and laws.

Commentary

Verses 1-3a: Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. He summoned the elders, leaders, judges, and officials of Israel, and they presented themselves before God. Joshua then began to recount the history, starting with Abraham, emphasizing God's guiding hand throughout. By beginning with Abraham, Joshua reminds the people of their roots, their covenant identity, and God's longstanding faithfulness to them.

Verse 14: Joshua's call to "fear the Lord and serve Him with all faithfulness" is a challenge to the Israelites to be single-minded in their devotion to God. This appeal is emphasized by the contrast he draws between serving the Lord and serving other gods.

Verse 15: Joshua's famous declaration, "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord", is a powerful personal testament of his commitment to God. He sets himself as an example, presenting the people with a clear choice.

Verses 16-18: The people's response shows their recognition of God's mighty works on their behalf, from delivering them out of Egypt to giving them the land of the Canaanites. Their shared history and experiences form the basis of their commitment to God.

Verses 19-21: Joshua challenges the people, ensuring they understand the weight of their commitment. Serving God is not a casual undertaking; it requires unwavering devotion. The people's insistence on choosing God reveals their determination at this moment.

Verses 22-24: Joshua sets up a covenantal moment, marking the people's commitment and their own words as testimony against them should they falter. Their affirmation, "We are witnesses," solidifies this agreement.

Verse 25: Joshua makes a covenant for the people at Shechem, reinforcing the significance of their commitment. This moment is pivotal as it renews the Mosaic covenant and reiterates the demands and blessings of faithfulness to God.

In essence, this passage highlights the importance of remembering God's past actions, choosing to serve Him wholeheartedly, and the serious nature of covenant commitment. Joshua's leadership not only facilitates the physical occupation of the Promised Land but also the spiritual dedication of the people to their God.

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

Psalm 78:1-7
The power of God

Psalm 78 is a Maschil, or a contemplative song, of Asaph. This particular section, verses 1-7, sets the tone for the entire psalm, which recounts the acts of God for His people and their responses in turn. This passage emphasizes the importance of remembering God's deeds and passing those memories on to future generations. It serves as a reminder that the stories of faith are not merely for personal edification but are to be shared with children and grandchildren. This sharing ensures that the coming generations might continue in faithfulness, hope, and praise of God. As you read these verses, reflect on your own life: the lessons learned, the grace received, and how you can share those stories with the next generation.

1 My people, hear my teaching; *
        listen to the words of my mouth.

2 I will open my mouth with a parable; *
        I will utter hidden things, things from of old—

3 Things we have heard and known, *
        things our ancestors have told us.

4 We will not hide them from their descendants;
        we will tell the next generation *
    the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord,
        his power, and the wonders he has done.

5 He decreed statutes for Jacob
        and established the law in Israel, *
    which he commanded our ancestors
        to teach their children,

6 So the next generation would know them,
        even the children yet to be born, *
    and they in turn would tell their children.

7 Then they would put their trust in God
        and would not forget his deeds *
    but would keep his commands.

Heavenly Father, we come before You today, acknowledging the words You have shared with us in Psalm 78. We give thanks for the wisdom of the parables, the teachings of old, and the stories passed down through generations that reveal Your mighty works and steadfast love.

Lord, let our ears be ever attentive to the lessons of the past. Open our hearts, so that we might not only hear but truly understand and internalize the teachings of our ancestors. Let us never forget Your wonders, Your miracles, and the testimony of Your faithfulness.

We pray for the strength and wisdom to teach our children and their children about Your mighty acts. Let us instill in them a deep reverence for You, a trust in Your promises, and an unwavering commitment to walk in Your ways.

May the future generations know of Your greatness, not only through the words we share but also through the testimony of our lives. Let our actions speak of Your goodness, and may our stories inspire hope, faith, and love in the hearts of those who come after us.

We pray that, as a community of believers, we may be united in our mission to pass down the legacy of faith, so that every generation may set their hope in You, never forgetting Your deeds, and always keeping Your commands.

In the precious name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Second Reading
From the Epistles

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
The promise of the resurrection

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 is a section of Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians, a Christian community in Thessalonica, a city in ancient Macedonia (modern-day Greece). This passage addresses concerns and questions the Thessalonians had regarding the fate of their fellow believers who had already passed away before the return of Jesus Christ. With these verses, Paul offers consolation and hope, reminding the Thessalonians of the ultimate Christian hope in the resurrection of the dead at the return of Christ.

4 13 Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. 14 For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. 15 According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.

Commentary

Verse 13: Paul begins by addressing the Thessalonians' concerns about their loved ones who have died. He wants them to be informed and not grieve as those without hope. This does not mean Christians should not grieve; rather, their grief should be accompanied by hope because of their beliefs.

Verse 14: Central to the Christian faith is the belief in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul underscores that this same hope of resurrection applies to all believers in Jesus. Just as Christ rose, those who sleep (a euphemism for death) in Him will also be resurrected.

Verse 15: Paul makes it clear, based on the teachings he received, that those who are alive at Christ's return will not experience it before those who have died. Both groups have a place in this event.

Verse 16: The return of Christ is described with vivid imagery. The Lord's descent, the loud command, the voice of the archangel, and the trumpet call all paint a dramatic picture of this momentous event. It emphasizes the power and glory associated with Christ's return.

Verse 17: This verse introduces the concept of the rapture (from the Latin rapturo, meaning "to catch up"), where believers, both resurrected and living, will meet the Lord in the air. This meeting in the skies symbolizes a glorious reunion, leading to an eternal communion with Christ.

Verse 18: Paul concludes by emphasizing the importance of these words as a source of encouragement. The knowledge of Christ's return and the promise of resurrection should serve as comforting truths that believers can share with one another, especially in times of grief or uncertainty.

In essence, this passage is a source of hope and encouragement for all believers, emphasizing the Christian belief in the resurrection and the eventual reunion with the Lord, irrespective of whether one has passed away or is still living when Christ returns.

Today’s Gospel Reading

Matthew 25:1-13
Wise and foolish bridesmaids

Matthew 25:1-13, commonly referred to as the "Parable of the Ten Virgins," is one of the many illustrative stories that Jesus used to convey spiritual truths to His disciples. Positioned within a series of teachings that Christ gave on readiness and watchfulness in the last days, this parable emphasizes the importance of preparation and vigilant expectation for the Kingdom of Heaven. As with many of Jesus' parables, the narrative is rooted in the everyday experiences of its original audience, drawing from the cultural customs of Jewish wedding ceremonies.

25 1 “At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. 5 The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.

6 “At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’

7 “Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’

9 “‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’

10 “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut.

11 “Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’

12 “But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’

13 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.

Commentary

The parable introduces ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. The central elements of the story are the virgins, their lamps, and the bridegroom—each representing different aspects of spiritual preparedness and the coming Kingdom of God.

1. The Ten Virgins: These represent those who profess to await Christ's return. They are outwardly similar, but internally, as the parable reveals, they are not all prepared. This is a warning to all believers to examine the sincerity and readiness of their faith.

2. The Lamps and Oil: The lamps are symbolic of the outward profession of faith, while the oil is indicative of the inner spiritual life and preparedness. The oil can be seen as the Holy Spirit or genuine faith that sustains believers in their waiting. The fact that five virgins did not bring extra oil suggests a lack of foresight and true spiritual readiness.

3. The Delayed Bridegroom: The bridegroom’s delay serves as a reminder that the timing of Christ's return is uncertain. As days turned into night, the virgins became drowsy and fell asleep, showing that there might be a prolonged wait and life's ordinary events can distract us from vigilant expectancy.

4. The Midnight Cry: The sudden announcement of the bridegroom’s arrival underscores the unexpected nature of Christ's return. It serves as a call to be alert and ready at all times.

5. The Shut Door: When the five foolish virgins realized they were unprepared and went to buy oil, they missed the bridegroom's arrival. Their exclusion from the wedding banquet after the door was shut underscores the finality of the separation that will occur between those ready for Christ's return and those who are not. This is a somber warning about the consequences of unpreparedness.

The concluding verse, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour," encapsulates the primary message of the parable. Jesus encourages His followers to live with an earnest expectation of His return and to be spiritually prepared at all times, as complacency can lead to dire consequences.

This parable, with its profound implications, urges believers not only to wait for Christ's return but to do so with active, prepared, and genuine faith.

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 24, Psalm 78, Matthew 25, 1 Thessalonians 4)

May the God who called Joshua to choose this day whom to serve, who reminded His people through the Psalmist of His mighty deeds and teachings, the same God who, in Matthew, calls us to readiness, compassion, and righteous action, and who, through Paul's letter, promises us the hope of His coming, bless you with a steadfast heart to serve only Him, remind you daily of His enduring faithfulness and love, inspire you to love and serve your neighbor with joy and anticipation, and fill your hearts with the hope of His eternal presence.

May you remember the stories of old, stay vigilant in your walk, and as you go forth, may the peace and hope of Christ's return encourage you, sustain you, and light your path.

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

Thankful Right Now

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 12, 2023
Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost
Legacy of Faith: Choosing and Preparing for the Promised Eternity
Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25; Psalm 78:1-7; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Matthew 25:1-13
In the rich tapestry of scripture, there are stories that draw us into a reflection on our past, our present choices, and our eternal future. Today's readings take us on a journey through time and decision, emphasizing the importance of heeding God's call, the legacy of faith passed down through generations, and the urgency of preparing for Christ's return. From Joshua reminding the Israelites of their history and urging them to choose whom they will serve, to Psalm 78's call to pass the stories of God's work down to future generations, to Paul comforting the Thessalonians about those who have died and assuring them of the great gathering at Christ's return, and finally, Jesus Himself illustrating the necessity of being ready for the awaited banquet—we are consistently pointed towards a profound truth: our choices matter and they echo into eternity. Let us dive deep into these passages, reflecting on our own commitment to God, the legacy we are leaving, and our preparation for the eternal promises ahead.