The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers
with Commentaires
Sunday, October 22, 2023
Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost
The Sacred Presence: Encountering God in Leadership, Worship, and Society
Exodus 33:12-23; Psalm 99; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10;
Sunday, October 22, 2023
Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost
The Sacred Presence: Encountering God in Leadership, Worship, and Society
Exodus 33:12-23; Psalm 99; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10;
Matthew 22:15-22
[Ordinary 29, Proper 24]
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)
Introduction
[Ordinary 29, Proper 24]
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
(Semi-continuous Reading Plan)
Introduction
In this compilation of biblical texts—Exodus 33:12-23; Psalm 99; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10; and Matthew 22:15-22—we explore the notion of divine presence, authority, and how that influences human lives in multifaceted ways.
In Exodus 33, Moses stands in the cleft of the rock, desperate for assurance, asking to witness God's glory. He is a leader who understands the weight of his responsibilities and yearns for God's presence to distinguish his people. God's response is powerful; He agrees to make His goodness pass before Moses but also emphasizes the boundaries of the human-divine relationship.
The tone of divine majesty continues in Psalm 99. Here, God is enthroned, and the people are called to worship and give thanks, recognizing that authority and justice are rooted in divine character. The Psalm not only evokes a sense of awe but also draws attention to God's relational nature, a God who answered His people and was forgiving even while executing justice.
Shifting to the New Testament, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 highlights how the faith, love, and hope of the early Christians serve as a model for all believers. They too had experienced the transforming power of God's presence through the message of the Gospel. This passage offers a snapshot of a community living in anticipation of the return of Jesus, portraying an ideal synergy between human effort and divine grace.
Finally, Matthew 22:15-22 presents a challenge to Jesus' authority from the religious and political leaders of His time. Through a discussion on taxes, Jesus confounds His critics and teaches about the delineation between the duties to God and the duties to society. His famous line, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's," calls us to examine our allegiances and underscores the greater obligation to divine authority.
By threading these passages together, we are invited to delve into the complex relationship between God's omnipotent authority and human agency, from individual leadership to communal worship and societal responsibilities. The overarching theme encourages us to recognize and respond to God's sacred presence in all aspects of our lives.
Father of Mercies
Opening Prayer
(Exodus 33)
(Exodus 33)
Heavenly Father, we come before You today aware of our deep need for Your presence, just as Moses was keenly aware of his need when he led the Israelites through the wilderness. Father, if Your presence does not go with us, we do not want to move forward. For what distinguishes us from all the other people on the face of the earth, if not Your presence among us?
Lord, we humbly ask that You would find favor in us. Show us Your ways that we may know You and continue to find favor in Your sight. We want to know Your name and Your character more deeply, so that we can serve You with whole hearts.
Moses asked to see Your glory, a bold request born from a deep relationship with You. We too long to experience the fullness of Your presence, to know You more intimately than we do now. While we may not see Your face, as Moses could not, we know we are privileged to see the glory of Your love and grace revealed through Jesus Christ.
Hide us in the cleft of the Rock, Lord. Cover us with Your hand and let Your goodness pass before us, that we might be transformed and empowered to live lives that glorify You.
We ask all this in the mighty name of Jesus, our Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
Prayer of Confession
(Exodus 33, 1 Thessalonians 1)
(Exodus 33, 1 Thessalonians 1)
Almighty and Everlasting God, we come before You today as a people deeply in need of Your presence and grace. You have called us to know You intimately and to reflect Your glory, yet we confess that we have often fallen short.
Like the Israelites in the wilderness, we admit that we have been impatient and unfaithful on our journey. We have doubted Your provision, questioned Your goodness, and strayed from Your path. Lord, if Your presence does not go with us, we are lost. We ask for Your forgiveness and guidance.
In the example of the Thessalonians, we see lives transformed by faith, labor prompted by love, and endurance inspired by hope. Yet, we confess that our faith is sometimes weak, our love is conditional, and our hope falters in the face of trials. Forgive us, O God, for the times we have not received Your Word with the power, conviction, and joy that Your Holy Spirit offers.
Lord, You have told us that no one may see Your face and live, but we know that through Jesus Christ, Your glory has been revealed to us. As we confess our sins, hide us in the cleft of the Rock, which is Christ, and cover us with Your hand. Pass before us now, that we may know Your goodness and mercy anew.
We ask for Your cleansing, and we long to turn from our sin to serve the living and true God wholeheartedly, as we wait for the return of Your Son, Jesus Christ, who rescues us from the coming wrath.
It is in His name that we offer this prayer of confession. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
(Psalm 99)
(Psalm 99)
Beloved in Christ, our God is holy; He sits enthroned between the cherubim. He is mighty and just, yet He is also a forgiving God. He answered the prayers of Moses, Aaron, and Samuel; He answered the cries of His people, showing mercy even while holding them accountable.
Just as God was a forgiving God to Israel, so He is to us. Your sins are not too great for God's mercy, nor your transgressions beyond His grace. The Lord, in His holiness and love, has heard your confession and has promised forgiveness for those who turn to Him in repentance.
Therefore, take heart. You are forgiven. Rejoice in the goodness of the Lord, who loves justice and offers mercy, who holds you accountable yet never abandons you. Let us serve the Lord with gladness, knowing that we are cleansed and renewed, called to proclaim His mighty works to the world.
Go in peace, assured that God's steadfast love endures forever. Amen.
Introduction to the Word
(Exodus 33)
(Exodus 33)
God, you are wrapped in mystery beyond human comprehension. Open our hearts to your presence as we seek your truth within the words we are about to hear. Amen.
Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
First Reading
Exodus 33:12-23
God’s glory revealed to Moses
The book of Exodus in the Bible is a foundational narrative for the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic faiths, offering a detailed account of the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt and their journey toward the Promised Land. Exodus 33:12-23 falls within a critical juncture in this narrative, where Moses negotiates with God on behalf of the Israelites. Having just received the Ten Commandments, and dealing with the aftermath of the golden calf incident, Moses finds himself in a challenging position as the mediator between God and His people.12 Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’ 13 If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”
The passage is rich in its thematic depth and contains numerous elements crucial to theological discourse, including God's presence, divine favor, and the nature of God. It is a segment of intimate dialogue between Moses and God, shedding light on their unique relationship.
14 The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
15 Then Moses said to him, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. 16 How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?”
17 And the Lord said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.”
18 Then Moses said, “Now show me your glory.”
19 And the Lord said, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the Lord, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. 20 But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.”
21 Then the Lord said, “There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. 22 When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. 23 Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen.”
Commentary
Verses 12-13:
Here, Moses opens the dialogue with a sense of vulnerability and urgency. Moses is not just any leader; he's a leader concerned with understanding the divine purpose behind the tasks he's been given. He seeks to understand God's ways, not just to gain knowledge but to continue to be in God's favor. Moses is also quick to remind God that the Israelites are His people, indicating a shared responsibility.
Verses 14-16:
God's initial response is comforting—He promises His presence and rest. Moses, however, takes the opportunity to challenge God gently. The divine presence is non-negotiable for him. It's not just about the physical journey but the symbolic value of God accompanying them. Moses' argument is potent; it's the presence of God that sets them apart from all other peoples, making them unique.
Verses 17-23:
God acquiesces to Moses' plea, pleased with him and acknowledging their intimate relationship. Yet, when Moses asks to see God's glory, he is met with both a yes and a no. God will reveal aspects of His nature, proclaim His name, but there are limits—Moses, or any human, cannot see God's face and live. This serves as a poignant reminder of the "otherness" and transcendence of God.
Conclusion
Exodus 33:12-23 offers an in-depth look at the complexities of the relationship between God and His chosen leader, Moses. It deals with profound theological questions surrounding the nature of God, His presence, and how His people are set apart. The passage also beautifully illustrates the dialogic relationship one can have with the divine, as Moses acts as an intercessor, a questioner, and ultimately, a humble servant seeking to understand his God more deeply.
A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 99
Proclaim God’s greatness
Psalm 99 stands as a magnificent hymn of praise to the reigning King of all—the Holy God of Israel. This psalm paints a vivid picture of God's majestic holiness and the profound reverence that His holiness demands from all of creation. It beckons us to acknowledge and celebrate God's righteousness, justice, and mighty acts throughout history. In the midst of global challenges, shifting cultures, and personal struggles, Psalm 99 provides a stabilizing reminder: God reigns supreme and is unmatched in His holiness. As we delve into this psalm, let's be inspired to both revere and rejoice in the unparalleled majesty of our Holy God.1 The LORD is King;
let the people tremble; *
he is enthroned upon the cherubim;
let the earth shake.
2 The LORD is great in Zion; *
he is high above all peoples.
3 Let them confess his Name, which is great and awesome; *
he is the Holy One.
4 “O mighty King, lover of justice,
you have established equity; *
you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob.”
5 Proclaim the greatness of the LORD our God
and fall down before his footstool; *
he is the Holy One.
6 Moses and Aaron among his priests,
and Samuel among those who call upon his Name, *
they called upon the LORD, and he answered them.
7 He spoke to them out of the pillar of cloud; *
they kept his testimonies and the decree that he gave them.
8 “O LORD our God, you answered them indeed; *
you were a God who forgave them,
yet punished them for their evil deeds.”
9 Proclaim the greatness of the LORD our God
and worship him upon his holy hill; *
for the LORD our God is the Holy One.
Heavenly Father, Creator of the heavens and the earth, we come before You today with hearts full of gratitude, recognizing Your majesty and sovereignty over all creation. Psalm 99 reminds us of Your holiness and the honor that is due to Your name.
Lord, You reign supreme, enthroned above the cherubim. The earth shakes in recognition of Your power, and we bow before Your holy presence, awed by Your majesty. Help us to always remember that You are King, and that Your rule is characterized by justice, equity, and righteousness.
Thank You for Your faithfulness to generations past. Just as You answered Moses, Aaron, and Samuel when they called upon You, we trust that You hear our cries today. Thank You for Your forgiveness, even when we fall short, and for guiding us back to Your path of righteousness.
Help us to exalt You, O Lord, at all times and in all places. May we worship You with reverence and awe, recognizing the magnitude of Your glory and grace. Teach us to be humble before You, acknowledging our dependence on Your mercy.
May our lives be a reflection of Your holiness, echoing the praises of the Psalmist and joining with the chorus of creation that exclaims, "The Lord our God is holy!" Fill us with a deep desire to serve You faithfully and to share Your love with the world.
In Your mighty and precious name, we pray, Amen.
Second Reading
From the Epistles
From the Epistles
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
Thanksgiving for the church at Thessalonica
The first chapter of 1 Thessalonians serves as an introduction to the whole letter, written by the Apostle Paul along with Silas and Timothy. The recipients are the Christians in Thessalonica, a city in modern-day Greece. This letter is one of the earliest Christian documents, written between 50-51 A.D., and it is the first of two letters addressed to the Thessalonian church by Paul. The primary themes in this chapter include the elect nature of the Thessalonian church, their exemplary faith, and how their faith serves as a witness to others.1 Paul, Silas and Timothy,
The Apostle begins by greeting the church and acknowledging their faith, love, and hope. Paul highlights the fact that their election by God is evident through their works of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope. Verses 1:1-10 of this chapter lay the groundwork for the rest of the letter and give us a window into the spiritual vitality of the Thessalonian believers.
To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:
Grace and peace to you.
2 We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers. 3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
4 For we know, brothers and sisters loved by God, that he has chosen you, 5 because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction. You know how we lived among you for your sake. 6 You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. 7 And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. 8 The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, 9 for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.
Commentary
Verses 1-2: The Greeting
The letter begins traditionally with a salutation, identifying Paul, Silas, and Timothy as the senders and the Thessalonians as the recipients. Paul's custom of offering prayers of thanksgiving for the communities to whom he writes is evident here. He expresses his gratitude to God for the Thessalonians, thereby affirming their value and importance in the Christian community.
Verses 3-4: Faith, Love, and Hope
Paul identifies three crucial virtues that mark the Thessalonian believers: their work produced by faith, their labor prompted by love, and their endurance inspired by hope in Jesus Christ. By mentioning these virtues, Paul sets the tone for what he will address later in the letter. The term "election" in verse 4 speaks to the Thessalonians' special place as chosen by God, a theme that Paul will return to throughout his correspondence.
Verses 5-6: The Gospel's Impact
Paul commends the Thessalonians for how they received the gospel message, not just as words, but as a message imbued with the Holy Spirit's power. The Thessalonians became imitators of Paul and of the Lord, a potent testament to the transformative power of the gospel. The mention of "joy given by the Holy Spirit" indicates the inner transformation that followed their acceptance of the gospel.
Verses 7-8: A Model to All
The faith of the Thessalonian believers was not just a personal matter but also served as an example for other believers. The word of the Lord rang out from them, essentially transforming the community into a hub from which the gospel message radiated to other places.
Verses 9-10: Turning from Idols
Finally, Paul acknowledges the Thessalonians' radical transformation in turning away from idols to serve the living God. This underlines the idea that their faith was not passive; it led to a transformative lifestyle. They also awaited Jesus' return, a hopeful expectation that fueled their steadfastness and commitment.
Summary
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 serves as an introductory snapshot of a vibrant, faith-filled community that stands as a testament to the gospel's transformative power. Paul's commendation for their faith, love, and hope provides not just an encouragement to the Thessalonian believers but serves as a timeless example for Christians today.
Today’s Gospel Reading
Matthew 22:15-22
A teaching about the emperor and God
The passage from Matthew 22:15-22 presents a well-known exchange between Jesus and the Pharisees, a leading religious group during Jesus' time. This encounter takes place in Jerusalem, shortly before the crucifixion of Jesus. It's an episode that underscores the unique wisdom of Jesus and serves as a complex teaching moment for His followers. In these verses, the Pharisees seek to entrap Jesus in His words, but Jesus, understanding their motive, provides an answer that not only avoids the snare but also reveals profound spiritual and ethical insights. The episode is often summarized by Jesus' command to "Give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's."15 Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. 16 They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. 17 Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?”
18 But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? 19 Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, 20 and he asked them, “Whose image is this? And whose inscription?”
21 “Caesar’s,” they replied.
Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”
22 When they heard this, they were amazed. So they left him and went away.
Commentary
A Trap is Set
The Pharisees and Herodians come together in an unholy alliance to trap Jesus. It's worth noting that these groups were often at odds with each other; the Pharisees opposed Roman rule, while the Herodians were more accommodating. Their common aim here is to trap Jesus in a lose-lose situation. If Jesus says that taxes shouldn't be paid, He could be accused of inciting rebellion against Rome. If He says they should be paid, He risks alienating His followers who despise Roman occupation.
The Wisdom of Jesus
Jesus perceives their malicious intent and calls them out as hypocrites. He then employs a masterstroke of wisdom by asking to see the coin used for the tax. In doing so, Jesus shifts the focus from a binary trap to a deeper spiritual conversation. When He asks about the image and inscription on the coin, He is directing them to contemplate the very nature of ownership, authority, and obligation.
Dual Citizenship
Jesus' reply, "Give back to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's," is groundbreaking. He acknowledges that there are obligations to the state as long as they don't conflict with one's ultimate allegiance to God. The coin bears the image of Caesar, suggesting Caesar's domain in temporal matters, but humans bear the image of God, indicating a far greater obligation to divine authority.
The Impact
The brilliance of Jesus' answer leaves His interrogators amazed. They realize they are not dealing with a mere political agitator or a simplistic moral teacher but someone with a wisdom that transcends the trappings of their questions.
In summary, this passage offers a complex tapestry of insights that pertain to ethics, spirituality, and the balancing act between earthly responsibilities and heavenly allegiance. It remains an invaluable resource for those seeking to navigate the complexities of faith, politics, and social responsibility.
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.
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
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)
(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
(Exodus 33, 1 Thessalonians 1)
(Exodus 33, 1 Thessalonians 1)
May the God of Moses, who led the people through the wilderness, be your guiding Light. May His presence go with you to give you rest.
May you find favor in His sight, and may you know His name. Just as Moses was hidden in the cleft of the rock, may you too be hidden in the love and grace of Christ Jesus.
May you receive and turn to the gospel not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction.
Let your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ be evident to all.
And as you wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath—may you live lives worthy of God, who calls you into His kingdom and glory.
Go in peace, confident that His face will shine upon you, and may you be filled with the overflowing joy and love that comes only from knowing God and His Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Made New
Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets].
The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Responsive Readings from the Common Book of Prayer (1789). Commentaries by Rev. Kenny Sallee, ThM.
The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year A. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2023, we will be in Year B. The year which ended at Advent 2022 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers for Sunday, October 22, 2023
Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost
The Sacred Presence: Encountering God in Leadership, Worship, and Society
Exodus 33:12-23; Psalm 99; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10; Matthew 22:15-22
In today's compilation of biblical texts we explore the notion of divine presence, authority, and how that influences human lives in multifaceted ways. By threading these passages together, we are invited to delve into the complex relationship between God's omnipotent authority and human agency, from individual leadership to communal worship and societal responsibilities. The overarching theme encourages us to recognize and respond to God's sacred presence in all aspects of our lives.
