The Daily Lectionary with Commentary for Wednesday, March 27, 2024: Wednesday of Holy Week

 

The Daily Lectionary
With Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Wednesday, March 27, 2024: Wednesday of Holy Week

The Steadfast Journey

Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 70; Hebrews 12:1-3; John 13:21-32
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Lent 6)

Introduction

As we enter the solemn observance of Wednesday of Holy Week, our scriptural meditations guide us through a journey of steadfast faith and divine purpose. Isaiah 50:4-9a reminds us of the Servant's unwavering commitment to God's will, enduring suffering with a resolute spirit. Psalm 70 resonates with a heartfelt plea for deliverance and an acknowledgment of our dependence on God's timely intervention. In Hebrews 12:1-3, we are urged to run the race set before us with perseverance, looking to Jesus as the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross. Finally, John 13:21-32 presents the poignant narrative of betrayal and divine foresight, as Jesus reveals his impending betrayal, setting into motion the events that lead to the crucifixion. Together, these passages invite us to reflect on the depth of Christ's sacrifice, the strength found in steadfast faith, and the hope that lies in embracing God's redemptive plan.

Isaiah 50:4-9a
The Servant is Vindicated by God

Isaiah 50:4-9 forms a profound segment within the Book of Isaiah, which is a cornerstone of the Old Testament. This specific passage is part of the "Servant Songs," a collection of texts that describe the servant of the Lord. In these verses, the servant speaks about his God-given wisdom and his commitment to obedience, despite facing adversity and suffering. The servant's resilience and trust in God's help are emphatically portrayed, as he faces his adversaries with confidence and a steadfast belief in the Lord's vindication. This passage is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ in Christian theology and serves as an inspiring testament to faith and perseverance in the face of challenges.

50 4 The LORD God has given me
        the tongue of a teacher,
    that I may know how to sustain
        the weary with a word.
    Morning by morning he wakens—
        wakens my ear
        to listen as those who are taught.
5    The LORD God has opened my ear,
        and I was not rebellious,
        I did not turn backward.
6    I gave my back to those who struck me,
        and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard;
    I did not hide my face
        from insult and spitting.

7    The LORD God helps me;
        therefore I have not been disgraced;
    therefore I have set my face like flint,
        and I know that I shall not be put to shame;
8        he who vindicates me is near.
    Who will contend with me?
        Let us stand up together.
    Who are my adversaries?
        Let them confront me.
9a  It is the LORD God who helps me;
        who will declare me guilty?

Expository Commentary

Verse 4: This verse presents the servant as having been endowed with wisdom and eloquence by God, specifically for the purpose of teaching and encouraging others. The reference to "morning by morning" suggests a continual, daily instruction from God, emphasizing the servant's ongoing relationship with the Divine and his role as a listener and learner.

Verse 5: Here, the servant acknowledges his obedience to God's will. The opening of the ear is a metaphor for receiving and accepting divine instruction. The servant's lack of rebellion and refusal to turn away signify a deep commitment to God's path, even in the face of adversity.

Verse 6: This verse is a poignant expression of the servant's suffering and humiliation. Despite the physical and emotional pain inflicted upon him, the servant does not resist or hide. This imagery is often interpreted as a prefiguration of Christ's passion and his non-retaliation in the face of suffering.

Verse 7: The servant expresses unwavering confidence in God's assistance, which keeps him from disgrace. The phrase "set my face like flint" indicates determination and resoluteness. There's an assurance of vindication, a theme central to the servant's experience and to the Christian understanding of Jesus' resurrection.

Verse 8: In this verse, the servant challenges his adversaries, bolstered by the proximity and support of God. There's a call for a sort of divine courtroom scene, where the servant is confident of his vindication by God.

Verse 9: The passage concludes with a reaffirmation of trust in God's help and a prophetic declaration of the fate of the servant's enemies. They are compared to a garment consumed by moths, symbolizing their ultimate frailty and transient nature in contrast to the enduring righteousness and support of God.

Overall, Isaiah 50:4-9 presents a profound picture of a servant who, despite facing immense suffering and opposition, remains steadfast in his obedience and trust in God. This passage has been a source of inspiration and hope for many, particularly in its foreshadowing of Christ's life and ministry in Christian theology.

Psalm 70
Be Pleased O God to Deliver Me

Psalm 70 is a poignant and urgent cry for help and deliverance, reflecting the deep anguish and earnest plea of its author, traditionally attributed to King David. This psalm stands out as a concise and fervent prayer, characterized by its brevity and intensity. It opens with an immediate call for God to be quick in providing rescue and relief to the psalmist, who finds themselves in dire need. The themes of this psalm are universally resonant, touching on the human experiences of distress, the pursuit by adversaries, and the fervent hope for divine intervention. Notably, Psalm 70 also echoes the sentiments found in Psalm 40, underscoring its timeless appeal and the shared human longing for God's saving grace in times of peril.

1    Be pleased, O God, to deliver me.
        O LORD, make haste to help me!
2    Let those be put to shame and confusion
        who seek my life.
    Let those be turned back and brought to dishonor
        who desire to hurt me.
3    Let those who say, “Aha, Aha!”
        turn back because of their shame.

4    Let all who seek you
        rejoice and be glad in you.
    Let those who love your salvation
        say evermore, “God is great!”
5    But I am poor and needy;
        hasten to me, O God!
    You are my help and my deliverer;
        O LORD, do not delay!

Expository Commentary

Verse 1: This verse is a direct and urgent appeal to God for swift deliverance. The psalmist expresses an immediate need for God's intervention, indicating a situation of extreme distress or danger. The dual invocation of God, first with the general term "God" (Elohim in Hebrew) and then with the personal name "LORD" (Yahweh), underscores the depth of the psalmist's reliance on divine assistance.

Verse 2: Here, the psalmist asks for justice against their adversaries. The words "shame," "confusion," "turned back," and "dishonor" suggest a reversal of fortune for those who pursue harm against the psalmist. This verse reflects a common theme in the Psalms, where the petitioner asks God to act against their enemies in a manner that upholds justice.

Verse 3: The expression "Aha, Aha!" is an exclamation of triumph or mockery. The psalmist is referring to those who gloat over his misfortune or distress. The plea is for these mockers to be overcome by shame, a result of the divine intervention the psalmist seeks.

Verse 4: Contrasting with the previous verses, here the focus shifts to those who seek and love God. The psalmist expresses a desire for these faithful individuals to experience joy and gladness in God. This verse underscores the belief that in seeking and loving God, there is a profound sense of joy and fulfillment. The phrase "God is great" is a declaration of faith and trust in God's power and goodness.

Verse 5: The final verse returns to the personal plea of the psalmist, emphasizing their vulnerable state as "poor and needy." This self-description suggests a state of humility and total dependence on God. The psalmist reaffirms their faith in God as their help and deliverer, ending with a heartfelt plea for God not to delay in providing the needed assistance.

Overall, Psalm 70 is a prayer for speedy help in a time of distress, contrasting the plight of the psalmist with the fate of their adversaries and the joy of those who seek God. It is a profound expression of trust in God's power and justice, as well as an acknowledgment of human vulnerability and dependence on divine mercy.

Hebrews 12:1-3
Look to Jesus who Endured the Cross

Hebrews 12:1-3 presents a profound and motivating passage within the Christian New Testament, offering both encouragement and spiritual guidance. These verses metaphorically liken the Christian life to a race that requires endurance, urging believers to lay aside every weight and sin that clings so closely, and to run with perseverance the race set before them. This imagery is used to inspire faith and discipline, drawing attention to Jesus, "the pioneer and perfecter of our faith." The passage emphasizes looking to Jesus as an example, who endured the cross and its shame for the joy set before him, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God. This powerful imagery serves as a reminder to Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, especially during trials and challenges, drawing strength from the example of Christ's endurance and triumph.

12 1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.

3 Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.

Expository Commentary

Verse 1 — "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us."

• Great Cloud of Witnesses: This refers to the figures mentioned in Hebrews 11, who exemplify faith in action. The "cloud of witnesses" implies that these figures, though no longer living, still inspire and encourage believers through their legacy.

• Lay Aside Every Weight and Sin: The imagery of running a race is used here. Just as an athlete discards any unnecessary burden to enhance performance, Christians are advised to rid themselves of both moral hindrances (sin) and unnecessary distractions or burdens ("every weight") that could impede their spiritual journey.

• Run with Perseverance: The Christian life is likened to a long-distance race, not a sprint. It requires continuous effort, patience, and endurance, emphasizing the need for sustained faith and commitment.

Verse 2 — "Looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God."

• Looking to Jesus: Jesus is presented as the ultimate role model for faith. Believers are encouraged to focus on Him, drawing inspiration and guidance.

• Pioneer and Perfecter of Faith: The term "pioneer" suggests that Jesus has initiated the path of faith that Christians are to follow. "Perfecter" indicates that He brought this faith to completion, especially through His actions and teachings.

• Endured the Cross, Disregarding Its Shame: This highlights Jesus' sacrifice and the immense suffering He willingly endured. The shame associated with crucifixion is contrasted with the joy and glory that followed – a powerful reminder of the transformative power of faith and endurance.

• Seated at the Right Hand of God: This signifies Jesus’ exalted status and divine authority, reinforcing His role as the Lord and leader in the Christian faith.

Verse 3 — "Consider him who endured such hostility from sinners against himself, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart."

• Consider Him: This is an invitation to deeply reflect on Jesus' experiences and what they represent. It is a call to understand the depth of His suffering and the strength of His commitment.

• Endured Hostility from Sinners: This refers to the opposition and torment Jesus faced, particularly in the events leading up to and including His crucifixion.

• So That You May Not Grow Weary or Lose Heart: The purpose of considering Jesus’ endurance is to find strength and encouragement. In moments of doubt, hardship, or persecution, believers are reminded to draw upon the example of Jesus to find the resilience to continue in their faith journey.

In summary, Hebrews 12:1-3 encourages believers to persist in their faith, drawing inspiration from the examples of past faithful figures and, most importantly, from Jesus Christ. It emphasizes endurance, the relinquishment of sin and distractions, and the importance of focusing on the example and teachings of Jesus. This passage serves as a powerful exhortation to maintain faith and hope, even in the face of trials and tribulations.

John 13:21-32
Jesus Foretells His Betrayal

John 13:21-32 presents a pivotal and emotionally charged passage in the Christian narrative. This section of the Gospel according to John captures the tense and somber moments during the Last Supper, where Jesus openly reveals that one of His disciples will betray Him. The atmosphere is thick with suspense and confusion as the disciples wonder who among them would commit such an act. The passage further intensifies as Jesus identifies Judas Iscariot as the betrayer, using a morsel of bread as a sign. This event sets in motion the sequence of events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, highlighting themes of betrayal, foreknowledge, and divine purpose. The passage not only reflects the human vulnerability and treachery but also underlines the fulfillment of scripture and Jesus' willing submission to His fate, emphasizing His role as the sacrificial Lamb in Christian theology.

13 21 After saying this Jesus was troubled in spirit, and declared, “Very truly, I tell you, one of you will betray me.” 22 The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he was speaking. 23 One of his disciples—the one whom Jesus loved—was reclining next to him; 24 Simon Peter therefore motioned to him to ask Jesus of whom he was speaking. 25 So while reclining next to Jesus, he asked him, “Lord, who is it?” 26 Jesus answered, “It is the one to whom I give this piece of bread when I have dipped it in the dish.” So when he had dipped the piece of bread, he gave it to Judas son of Simon Iscariot. 27 After he received the piece of bread, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, “Do quickly what you are going to do.” 28 Now no one at the table knew why he said this to him. 29 Some thought that, because Judas had the common purse, Jesus was telling him, “Buy what we need for the festival”; or, that he should give something to the poor. 30 So, after receiving the piece of bread, he immediately went out. And it was night.

31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him. 32 If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once.

Expository Commentary

Verse 21 — Announcement of Betrayal: Jesus is "troubled in spirit" and announces that one of His disciples will betray Him. This shows Jesus' deep emotional connection and the gravity of the impending betrayal. His omniscience is also highlighted here, as He knows what is about to happen.

Verses 22-25 — The Disciples' Reaction: The disciples look at one another, unsure of whom Jesus speaks. This confusion reflects their innocence and their inability to suspect one of their own. The beloved disciple, often identified as John, is reclining close to Jesus, depicting a position of special affection and closeness.

Verse 26 — Identification of the Betrayer: Jesus identifies Judas as the betrayer with a sign, giving a piece of bread after dipping it. This act is culturally significant as sharing food is a sign of friendship and trust. The handing of the bread to Judas is both an act of friendship and a poignant symbol of the betrayal.

Verse 27 — Satan Entering Judas: After receiving the bread, Satan enters Judas. This moment is critical, signifying not just a physical act of betrayal but a spiritual and moral fall. It underlines the battle between good and evil, and Judas's surrender to darker forces.

Verse 28-29 — The Disciples' Misunderstanding: Interestingly, the other disciples do not understand the significance of the exchange between Jesus and Judas. Some think Jesus is instructing Judas to buy what is needed for the festival or to give something to the poor, reflecting their ongoing lack of understanding of Jesus' words and actions.

Verse 30 — Judas Leaves: Judas leaves immediately, and it is noted that it is night. This not only signifies the time of day but also symbolizes the darkness of the act he is about to commit, contrasting with the light and truth represented by Jesus.

Verses 31-32 — Glorification of the Son and the Father: After Judas leaves, Jesus speaks about the glorification of the Son of Man and God. This is a pivotal theological statement, indicating that through the events of betrayal, suffering, and ultimately the crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus will glorify God. It suggests that these events are not just a tragedy but are part of a divine plan for redemption.

In summary, this passage from John 13:21-32 is laden with dramatic irony, emotional intensity, and profound theological significance. It sets the stage for the events of the Passion, highlighting themes of betrayal, divine foreknowledge, the spiritual realm, and the redemptive plan of God through the suffering and glorification of Jesus Christ.

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 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Commentaries are by Kenny Sallee, ThM, aided by ChatGPT. The biblical commentaries provided here are intended for educational and spiritual enrichment purposes only. The interpretations and insights offered are based on the authors' understanding and perspective of the Bible, which may be influenced by their theological training, denominational background, and personal beliefs.

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