The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers with Commentaries for Sunday, February 4, 2024: Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

 

The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers
with Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Sunday, February 4, 2024
Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany

Strength in Devotion: Divine Comfort

and Human Compassion

Isaiah 40:21-31; Psalm 147:1-11, 20c;

1 Corinthians 9:16-23; Mark 1:29-39
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Ordinary 5)

Serving Others

Have you ever served another person without getting the recognition you deserved? Have you ever sacrificed your own wishes to care for another, and not been thanked profusely enough? Attorney Dirk Hardcastle is here with a simple and effective solution: Take 'Em to Court! This video pokes fun at how we all serve others, and, at one time or another, might have secretly hoped for something in return.

Introduction

This collection of scriptures from Isaiah, Psalms, Corinthians, and Mark interweaves a divine tapestry of comfort, strength, and commitment. Isaiah 40:21-31 assures us of the Lord's everlasting power and the strength He provides to the weary. Psalm 147:1-11, 20c sings praises to God for His healing and provision, reminding us of His care for the humble. In 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Paul speaks of his compelling duty to preach the gospel, adapting to all to save some. Finally, Mark 1:29-39 depicts Jesus's compassionate healing and tireless service, as He heals many, then retreats to pray, exemplifying the balance of divine mission and personal communion with God. Together, these passages encourage us to find resilience in God's eternal presence and to live out our faith with compassionate action.

Opening Prayer
(Isaiah 40, Psalm 147)

Almighty Creator, who adorns the night sky with countless stars and knows each by its own name, Your majesty is beyond our comprehension, and Your might knows no bounds. As You cradle the lambs in Your embrace and tenderly guide the nurturing ones, we approach Your throne with humility, longing for Your compassion and kindness. We exalt You for the wonders of Your creation, for elevating the meek and mending the hearts of the sorrowful. May Your vigor rejuvenate us as the eagles soar, and Your insight direct our journey. In everything, we express our gratitude and reverence to You, our eternal God, Amen.

Prayer of Confession
(Isaiah 40, Psalm 147, Mark 1)

Almighty Father, we approach Your throne with a deep sense of our own weakness and failings. We are transient like the flowers of the field, quickly fading, often forgetting the everlasting nature of Your Word. We admit our tendency to lean on our own might, overlooking the eternal promises and boundless compassion You offer. In our shortsightedness, we take on loads too great for us, neglecting Your invitation to find rest and renewal in Your presence. Pardon us, O Lord, for failing to rise on eagles' wings, for not running without tiring, for faltering when we should walk without fainting.

Merciful God, You mend the brokenhearted and care for their wounds. We plead for Your gentle restoration over our wrongdoings. Like wandering sheep, our hearts have veered off course, searching for direction away from Your nurturing care. You have announced the glad tidings of Your reign and urged us to change our ways and embrace faith. Forgive us for those moments when we turned our backs on the proximity of Your kingdom, opting for the transient pleasures of this world instead. Revive us, Lord, with Your unchanging love, and guide us back to the way of righteousness, so we may wholly experience the radiance of Your grace and truth. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon
(Psalm 147)

Beloved, hear the good news: Just as the Lord heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds, so too does He forgive our iniquities and lift us from the depths of despair. In the vastness of His understanding and the boundless reach of His mercy, our sins are cast away, and we are renewed. As the Lord sustains the humble and brings the wicked to the ground, let us rejoice in His mighty salvation. In Christ, we are forgiven, healed, and embraced. Go forth in the peace and assurance of His unwavering love, for great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit. Amen.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
From the Prophetic Books

Isaiah 40:21-31
Renewed Strength in Divine Providence

Isaiah 40:21-31 offers a profound message of hope and reassurance. It speaks to the enduring strength and sovereignty of God, contrasting the fleeting nature of human power with the infinite might and wisdom of the Creator. This passage is a source of comfort and inspiration, reminding us that those who place their trust in God will find their strength renewed.

40 21 Do you not know?
        Have you not heard?
    Has it not been told you from the beginning?
        Have you not understood since the earth was founded?
22  He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth,
        and its people are like grasshoppers.
    He stretches out the heavens like a canopy,
        and spreads them out like a tent to live in.
23  He brings princes to naught
        and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing.
24  No sooner are they planted,
        no sooner are they sown,
        no sooner do they take root in the ground,
    than he blows on them and they wither,
        and a whirlwind sweeps them away like chaff.

25  “To whom will you compare me?
        Or who is my equal?” says the Holy One.
26  Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens:
        Who created all these?
    He who brings out the starry host one by one
        and calls forth each of them by name.
    Because of his great power and mighty strength,
        not one of them is missing.

27  Why do you complain, Jacob?
        Why do you say, Israel,
    “My way is hidden from the Lord;
        my cause is disregarded by my God”?
28  Do you not know?
        Have you not heard?
    The Lord is the everlasting God,
        the Creator of the ends of the earth.
    He will not grow tired or weary,
        and his understanding no one can fathom.
29  He gives strength to the weary
        and increases the power of the weak.
30  Even youths grow tired and weary,
        and young men stumble and fall;
31  but those who hope in the Lord
        will renew their strength.
    They will soar on wings like eagles;
        they will run and not grow weary,
        they will walk and not be faint.

Expository Commentary

Verses 21-24 (The Omnipotence and Omniscience of God): In these verses, Isaiah highlights the majesty and wisdom of God. He questions the people, urging them to recognize the evident power of God in creation and history. The imagery used portrays God as the one who sits above the earth, to whom its inhabitants are like grasshoppers. This powerful depiction serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over worldly rulers and the transient nature of earthly power.

Verses 25-26 (The Incomparable God): Here, Isaiah challenges anyone to find a comparison to God, emphasizing His uniqueness and supremacy. The call to gaze up at the stars and acknowledge God's hand in their creation serves as a testament to His unfathomable power and knowledge. This section encourages believers to trust in the God who knows and names each star, a metaphor for His intimate knowledge of His creation.

Verses 27-28 (God's Everlasting Knowledge and Power): Isaiah addresses the feelings of abandonment and doubt that people often experience. He reassures them that God's understanding is unsearchable and His power is inexhaustible. This reassurance is crucial for those who feel unseen or forgotten, reminding them of God's constant presence and endless power.

Verses 29-31 (The Promise of Renewed Strength): The passage culminates with a promise of hope and renewal. It contrasts human frailty with divine strength, assuring that those who wait upon the Lord will have their strength renewed. They will soar on wings like eagles, run without growing weary, and walk without fainting. This metaphorical language speaks to the spiritual vigor and resilience granted to those who put their trust in God, encouraging a steadfast faith even in times of hardship.

In summary, Isaiah 40:21-31 is a powerful message of hope, emphasizing the supremacy of God over all creation. It reassures believers of God's unfailing strength and wisdom, encouraging them to trust in Him for renewal and sustenance.

A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 147:1-11, 20c
Harmony of Praise and Providence

Psalm 147:1-11, 20c is a resounding hymn of praise, reflecting on the immense power and loving care of God. It invites believers to celebrate God's majesty, as it touches on His creation, understanding, and compassion. The Psalm emphasizes the joy found in worship and the blessings that come from fearing the Lord and hoping in His unfailing love. It is a profound reminder of the Lord's pleasure in those who respect Him and the peace He provides to His chosen ones.

1    Praise the Lord.
            How good it is to sing praises to our God, *
        How pleasant and fitting to praise him!

2    The Lord builds up Jerusalem; *
        He gathers the exiles of Israel.

3    He heals the brokenhearted *
        And binds up their wounds.

4    He determines the number of the stars *
        And calls them each by name.

5    Great is our Lord and mighty in power; *
        His understanding has no limit.

6    The Lord sustains the humble *
        But casts the wicked to the ground.

7    Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; *
        Make music to our God on the harp.

8    He covers the sky with clouds; *
        He supplies the earth with rain
            and makes grass grow on the hills.

9    He provides food for the cattle *
        And for the young ravens when they call.

10  His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, *
        Nor his delight in the legs of the warrior;

11  The Lord delights in those who fear him, *
        Who put their hope in his unfailing love.

20c Praise the Lord.

O Divine Creator, who numbers the stars and calls them each by name, we gather in humble adoration to praise You, for it is good to sing praises to our God; it is pleasant and fitting to praise You.

Lord of all, You rebuild Jerusalem and gather the exiles of Israel, healing the brokenhearted and binding up their wounds. Your understanding is beyond measure, and we stand in awe of Your limitless wisdom.

Mighty God, who determines the number of the stars and calls each by name, Your power is unrivaled, and Your wisdom is profound. You lift the humble and cast the wicked to the ground.

Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving; make music to our God on the harp. You cover the sky with clouds, supply the earth with rain, and make grass grow on the hills. You provide for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call.

Sovereign Lord, Your delight is not in the strength of the horse nor Your pleasure in the legs of the warrior; but You, O Lord, delight in those who fear You, who put their hope in Your unfailing love.

We are blessed as Your people, O Lord, to know Your statutes and live in Your favor. Let our hearts be ever inclined to fear Your name and find joy in Your commandments.

Through the name of our Savior and Redeemer, we offer our prayers and praises. Amen.

Second Reading
From the Epistles
1 Corinthians 9:16-23
Adaptability in Ministry: Paul's Missionary Strategy

In 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, the Apostle Paul outlines a foundational principle of his ministry: the strategy of becoming "all things to all people" in order to win as many as possible for Christ. This passage provides insight into Paul’s missionary zeal and his willingness to adapt his approach for the sake of the Gospel. He discusses the obligation of preaching, the relinquishing of rights for the greater good, and the varied methods he employs to reach different groups. This section is a profound reflection on the nature of Christian service, freedom, and the adaptability required to effectively communicate the message of Jesus Christ.

8 16 For when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, since I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! 17 If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me. 18 What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make full use of my rights as a preacher of the gospel.

19 Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. 20 To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. 21 To those not having the law I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God’s law but am under Christ’s law), so as to win those not having the law. 22 To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. 23 I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.

Expository Commentary

Verses 16-17 (The Compulsion to Preach): Paul begins by expressing that preaching the Gospel is not merely a choice for him but a necessity placed upon him. He feels "woe" if he does not preach, indicating the deep sense of responsibility he carries. His reward is to offer the Gospel freely, not using his rights as a preacher for personal gain.

Verses 18-19 (Relinquishing Rights): Paul discusses his right to receive material support for his ministry, a right he willingly forfeits to avoid hindering the Gospel's spread. His approach is counter-cultural and radical, choosing to serve without reward to make the message accessible to all.

Verses 20-22 (Becoming All Things to All People): Here lies the crux of Paul's missionary strategy. He adapts to the cultural and religious backgrounds of his audience, becoming "as a Jew" to the Jews and "as one under the law" to those under the law, despite his own freedom from the law as a Christian. His approach is not about compromising his faith but about removing unnecessary barriers to the Gospel. His ultimate goal is to save some by any means.

Verse 23 (For the Sake of the Gospel): Paul concludes with the motive driving his adaptability: everything is for the sake of the Gospel. He shares in its blessings and endeavors to partake in its promises alongside those he seeks to save.

In summary, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 challenges believers to consider how they might adapt their own approaches to share the Gospel more effectively. It calls for a selfless and strategic approach to ministry, emphasizing the importance of understanding and empathizing with those one is trying to reach. Paul's example inspires a balance between maintaining the truth of the Gospel while also being culturally sensitive and flexible for the sake of saving souls.

Today’s Gospel Reading
Mark 1:29-39
Compassion and Solitude: Jesus' Healing and Prayer

In Mark 1:29-39, we witness a profound blend of compassion and spiritual discipline in Jesus' ministry. This passage offers a glimpse into Jesus' miraculous healing powers and His deep commitment to prayer. It begins with Jesus healing Simon Peter's mother-in-law, followed by curing many sick and demon-possessed individuals. However, amidst these compassionate acts, Jesus also seeks solitude for prayer, illustrating the balance between service and spiritual sustenance.

1 29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they immediately told Jesus about her. 31 So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.

32 That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door, 34 and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.

35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. 36 Simon and his companions went to look for him, 37 and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”

38 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to the nearby villages—so I can preach there also. That is why I have come.” 39 So he traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and driving out demons.

Expository Commentary

Verses 29-31 (Healing of Simon’s Mother-in-Law): Jesus' healing of Simon's mother-in-law is a testament to His immediate response to human suffering. This miracle, simple yet profound, demonstrates His power over illness and His willingness to intervene in our daily struggles. It also highlights the instantaneous nature of His healing, as she immediately begins to serve them, symbolizing restoration to health and purpose.

Verses 32-34 (Jesus Heals Many After Sunset): As the Sabbath ends at sunset, many people bring the sick and demon-possessed to Jesus. This scene portrays the immense need of the people and Jesus' unwavering commitment to alleviate suffering. His healing of various diseases and casting out of demons signify His authority over both physical and spiritual realms.

Verses 35-37 (A Time for Solitude and Prayer): Despite the demanding nature of His ministry, Jesus prioritizes solitude and prayer. Early in the morning, He finds a solitary place to communicate with His Father. This act is a powerful reminder of the importance of spiritual nourishment and connection with God amidst the busyness of life and ministry.

Verses 38-39 (Spreading the Message in Galilee): Jesus expresses His purpose to preach in other towns, emphasizing the primary goal of His ministry—proclaiming the Good News. His healing miracles are not just acts of compassion but also serve as a testament to the arrival of God's kingdom. Jesus' extensive journey through Galilee, preaching and driving out demons, underlines the expansive nature of His mission.

In conclusion, Mark 1:29-39 encapsulates the dual aspects of Jesus’ ministry: miraculous healings reflecting His compassion and the pursuit of solitary prayer reflecting His reliance on and communion with God. This passage invites believers to find a balance between actively serving others and nurturing their own spiritual lives through prayer and communion with God.

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.

Holy Communion Prayer

Heavenly Father, we gather in Your presence with hearts open and spirits yearning for Your divine grace. As we approach this sacred table to partake in the Holy Communion, we remember the sacrifice of Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Let this bread and wine be for us the body and blood of our Savior, a symbol of Your love and our redemption. May this holy sacrament unite us in faith, strengthen our spirits, and reaffirm our commitment to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, living out Your will in love and service.

Lord, as we receive these holy gifts, fill us with Your Holy Spirit. May this communion not only nourish our souls but also inspire us to extend Your love and grace to others. Let it be a reminder of the eternal covenant, the promise of eternal life, and the unbreakable bond we share as members of Your holy family. In this moment of sacred unity, we pray for peace, understanding, and the strength to overcome the trials of this world, trusting always in Your enduring love and mercy. Amen.

Benediction
(Isaiah 40)

May the God of all comfort, bless you and keep you. May He strengthen you with power when you are weary and lift you up on wings like eagles when you feel faint. May your journey be guided by His steadfast love and your path illuminated by His eternal truth. As the grass withers and the flowers fade, may you hold fast to the word of our God, which stands forever. Go forth in peace, wrapped in the boundless grace of the Lord, who measures the waters in the hollow of His hand, marks off the heavens, and knows you by name. Amen.

Called to Give More

In which ways is God calling you to give more? Should you be giving more of your time, talents, money, gifts, hobbies, traveling, or even your heart? This video helps viewers explore that question, and to examine their own hearts to see how they should be giving.

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 are by Kenny Sallee, ThM, aided by ChatGPT.

The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 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, February 4, 2024
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
Strength in Devotion: Divine Comfort and Human Compassion
Isaiah 40:21-31; Psalm 147:1-11, 20c; 1 Corinthians 9:16-23; Mark 1:29-39
This anthology of biblical excerpts from Isaiah, Psalms, Corinthians, and Mark weaves together a spiritual mosaic of solace, fortitude, and dedication. Isaiah's verses reassure us of God's unending might and the vigor He bestows upon the fatigued. The Psalms extol God for His restorative acts and provision, highlighting His attention to the lowly. In Corinthians, Paul discusses his unyielding obligation to spread the good news, adapting himself to reach many. Mark's account shows Jesus's empathetic healings and relentless ministry, balancing divine work with personal prayer. Collectively, these readings embolden us to draw strength from God's constant presence and to embody our beliefs through empathetic deeds.