The Daily Lectionary with Commentary
Saturday, October 7, 2023
The Voice of Creation, Law, and Prophecy:
Saturday, October 7, 2023
The Voice of Creation, Law, and Prophecy:
A Harmonious Call to Know God
Psalm 19; Exodus 23:10-13; John 7:40-52
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)
Introduction
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)
Introduction
The intersection of Psalm 19, Exodus 23:10-13, and John 7:40-52 offers a panoramic view of the diverse ways through which God communicates His will and character to humanity. Spanning the realms of nature, law, and prophecy, these scriptures illuminate the comprehensive and multifaceted nature of divine revelation.
Psalm 19 marvels at the cosmos, portraying the heavens and the skies as unspoken but eloquent testimonies to the glory of God. David, the psalmist, conveys that even without words, nature broadcasts the majesty of the Creator to all of creation. This is a cosmic proclamation that transcends language and culture, making it a universal call to recognize the Divine.
In contrast, Exodus 23:10-13 offers a more focused and specific revelation through the lens of the Law. These verses discuss the Sabbath year, the Sabbath day, and the sanctity of religious festivals. Far from being mere regulations, these laws encapsulate a worldview where social justice, rest, and devotion are interconnected elements that reflect God’s character and intentions for human flourishing.
Finally, John 7:40-52 thrusts us into a scene of heated debate about the identity of Jesus. Is he the Prophet? Is he the Christ? This account captures the confusion and anticipation surrounding Jesus, showcasing how God’s unfolding plan often perplexes human expectations but still fulfills divine prophecy. The passage also reveals that God is not confined to our human assumptions; He reveals Himself in ways that challenge and expand our understanding.
In blending these scriptures, we embark on a journey through the richness of God's communicative methods: the voice of creation in Psalm 19, the wisdom of divine law in Exodus 23, and the prophetic fulfillment in the person of Jesus in John 7. Together, these texts invite us into a deeper, more harmonious relationship with God, who speaks through the beauty of the world He made, the laws He established, and the prophecies He fulfilled.
A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 19
The law rejoices the heart
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 19
The law rejoices the heart
Psalm 19 is a profound hymn of praise that serves as a theological bridge between God's revelation in the natural world and His revelation in the Word. Written by King David, this Psalm opens with an awe-inspiring look at how the heavens and the skies testify to the glory and craftsmanship of God. Without saying a word, creation itself sings an eternal hymn of God's majesty. The Psalm then pivots to celebrate the Law, described as perfect, sure, and righteous—qualities that rejuvenate the soul, enlighten the eyes, and endure forever. David acknowledges that it's through God's Law that individuals are warned and rewarded, and he ends the Psalm with a prayer for purity and acceptability in God's sight.1 The heavens declare the glory of God, *
This Psalm prompts us to consider two important facets of divine revelation: general revelation available to everyone through nature, and special revelation given to us through God's Word. Both forms guide us to a deeper understanding of the Creator and provide us a way to live a life pleasing to Him.
and the firmament shows his handiwork.
2 One day tells its tale to another, *
and one night imparts knowledge to another.
3 Although they have no words or language, *
and their voices are not heard,
4 Their sound has gone out into all lands, *
and their message to the ends of the world.
5 In the deep has he set a pavilion for the sun; *
it comes forth like a bridegroom out of his chamber;
it rejoices like a champion to run its course.
6 It goes forth from the uttermost edge of the heavens
and runs about to the end of it again; *
nothing is hidden from its burning heat.
7 The law of the LORD is perfect
and revives the soul; *
the testimony of the LORD is sure
and gives wisdom to the innocent.
8 The statutes of the LORD are just
and rejoice the heart; *
the commandment of the LORD is clear
and gives light to the eyes.
9 The fear of the LORD is clean
and endures for ever; *
the judgments of the LORD are true
and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold,
more than much fine gold, *
sweeter far than honey,
than honey in the comb.
11 By them also is your servant enlightened, *
and in keeping them there is great reward.
12 Who can tell how often he offends? *
cleanse me from my secret faults.
13 Above all, keep your servant from presumptuous sins;
let them not get dominion over me; *
then shall I be whole and sound,
and innocent of a great offense.
14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my
heart be acceptable in your sight, *
O LORD, my strength and my redeemer.
Heavenly Father, we come before You in awe and wonder, inspired by the words of Psalm 19 that so beautifully proclaim Your glory through the heavens and the skies. Each sunrise and sunset, each star and planet in the night sky, serves as an unspoken hymn of Your majesty and grandeur. Lord, we thank You for this divine tapestry that constantly declares Your glory, for the creation that speaks even when words fail us.
Your law, O Lord, is perfect and brings refreshment to our souls. Your decrees are trustworthy and provide wisdom to our hearts. As we ponder Your commands, let us be transformed from the inside out. Help us to see the beauty in Your statutes and the freedom that comes from living according to Your Word. May Your teachings be the delight and meditation of our hearts.
Father, we acknowledge that we often fall short. We transgress Your commandments and ignore Your calls to righteousness. We confess these shortcomings and ask for Your forgiveness. Help us to discern our own errors and protect us from willful sins that separate us from You. Let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in Your sight.
We long for a relationship with You that mirrors the harmony of Your creation—a relationship defined by obedience to Your laws and fulfillment of Your prophecies. As the skies pour forth speech, so may our lives pour forth praise. May we reflect Your glory, as we are guided by Your Word and strive to be more like You.
Be with us today and every day in Jesus Christ, Who taught us to pray:
“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who 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, forever and ever. Amen.”
Exodus 23:10-13 is a part of the Mosaic Law, specifically found within a collection of laws often referred to as the "Book of the Covenant." This passage addresses agricultural practices, the Sabbath day, and religious festivals. While at first glance these rules may seem dated or irrelevant to a modern reader, they offer profound insights into God's vision for a balanced and just society. These laws reveal a God who is concerned not just with religious observance but also with social justice, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of both people and animals.10 “For six years you are to sow your fields and harvest the crops, 11 but during the seventh year let the land lie unplowed and unused. Then the poor among your people may get food from it, and the wild animals may eat what is left. Do the same with your vineyard and your olive grove.
12 “Six days do your work, but on the seventh day do not work, so that your ox and your donkey may rest, and so that the slave born in your household and the foreigner living among you may be refreshed.
13 “Be careful to do everything I have said to you. Do not invoke the names of other gods; do not let them be heard on your lips.
Commentary
Verse 10-11: Sabbath Year for the Land
The directive to let the land rest every seventh year serves multiple purposes. Ecologically, this practice allows the soil to recover its nutrients, which is an early form of sustainable agriculture. Socially, it provides for "the poor among your people" and even wild animals. This is social justice intertwined with environmental stewardship. God's design ensures that the vulnerable are not forgotten and that they, too, partake in the fruits of the land.
Verse 12: Sabbath Day for All
The Sabbath is extended to include not just humans but also animals, emphasizing the holistic well-being God desires for His creation. The instruction underscores the significance of rest and refreshment for everyone—slaves, foreigners, and even animals. This reflects a compassionate God who sees the weary and offers rest as a form of divine grace.
Verse 13: Monotheistic Worship
This verse serves as a summary exhortation, emphasizing the importance of whole-hearted obedience to God's laws. The warning against invoking other gods is not just a theological point but also a reminder that to live a life pleasing to God, one has to be consistent in worship and practice. God's laws are not just about what to do but also about whom to worship.
Conclusion
Exodus 23:10-13 may seem contextually removed from our lives today, but its principles of social justice, rest, and exclusive devotion to God are timeless. These verses demonstrate that living in alignment with God's will has practical benefits for both society and the environment, reflecting a divine wisdom that cares for the entire spectrum of His creation.
The passage from John 7:40-52 captures a critical moment during the Feast of Tabernacles where Jesus has been teaching in the temple courts. This section presents a variety of reactions to Jesus, illustrating the spectrum of beliefs and doubts concerning His identity. Here, Jesus is viewed through multiple lenses—some see Him as "the Prophet," others as "the Christ," and yet others are skeptical due to His Galilean origins. The passage portrays a heated debate among the crowd, the Pharisees, and the temple guards, serving as a microcosm of the larger discourse about Jesus that would ultimately lead to His crucifixion and resurrection.40 On hearing his words, some of the people said, “Surely this man is the Prophet.”
41 Others said, “He is the Messiah.”
Still others asked, “How can the Messiah come from Galilee? 42 Does not Scripture say that the Messiah will come from David’s descendants and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?” 43 Thus the people were divided because of Jesus. 44 Some wanted to seize him, but no one laid a hand on him.
45 Finally the temple guards went back to the chief priests and the Pharisees, who asked them, “Why didn’t you bring him in?”
46 “No one ever spoke the way this man does,” the guards replied.
47 “You mean he has deceived you also?” the Pharisees retorted. 48 “Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him? 49 No! But this mob that knows nothing of the law—there is a curse on them.”
50 Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who was one of their own number, asked, 51 “Does our law condemn a man without first hearing him to find out what he has been doing?”
52 They replied, “Are you from Galilee, too? Look into it, and you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee.”
Commentary
Verses 40-43: Divided Opinions
The crowd is divided over who Jesus is. Some believe He is "the Prophet," likely referring to the prophet like Moses that was prophesied in Deuteronomy 18:15. Others believe He is "the Messiah," the anointed one who would come to deliver Israel. This division shows that Jesus' teachings and actions have stirred both great hope and great controversy, foreshadowing the continued debate about His identity even after two millennia.
Verses 44-46: The Impact of Jesus' Words
While some in the crowd wish to seize Jesus, no one lays a hand on Him, perhaps a nod to the divine protection around Him. When questioned by the Pharisees, the temple guards offer a simple but profound reason for their inaction: "No one ever spoke the way this man does." This testifies to the unparalleled authority and impact of Jesus' teachings.
Verses 47-49: The Pharisees’ Disdain
The Pharisees' response reveals their condescending attitude toward the common people ("this mob") and their unwillingness to consider alternative viewpoints. Their statement implies that true understanding is the preserve of the religious elite, dismissing the possibility that God might be revealing Himself in a new and unexpected way.
Verses 50-52: Nicodemus' Inquiry
Nicodemus, who had previously visited Jesus at night (John 3), questions the rush to judgment by his peers. He advocates for due process, suggesting that Jesus should be heard before being condemned. The Pharisees dismiss him, asserting that "a prophet does not come out of Galilee," ironically neglecting to consider that God’s ways often confound human expectations.
Conclusion
John 7:40-52 reveals a range of responses to Jesus that continue to be relevant today. Some are open to believing in Him based on His teachings, while others are stuck in their traditional understanding and unable to see past their preconceptions. The passage serves as an invitation to explore Jesus' claims and teachings deeply, avoiding hasty judgments and being open to the unexpected ways God might choose to reveal Himself.
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 are 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 Daily Lectionary with Commentary for Saturday, October 7, 2023
The Voice of Creation, Law, and Prophecy: A Harmonious Call to Know God
Psalm 19; Exodus 23:10-13; John 7:40-52
The intersection of today's readings offers a panoramic view of the diverse ways through which God communicates His will and character to humanity. Spanning the realms of nature, law, and prophecy, these scriptures illuminate the comprehensive and multifaceted nature of divine revelation. In blending these scriptures, we embark on a journey through the richness of God's communicative methods: the voice of creation in Psalm 19, the wisdom of divine law in Exodus 23, and the prophetic fulfillment in the person of Jesus in John 7. Together, these texts invite us into a deeper, more harmonious relationship with God, who speaks through the beauty of the world He made, the laws He established, and the prophecies He fulfilled.
