The Daily Lectionary with Commentary for Friday, July 12, 2024

 

The Daily Lectionary
With Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Friday, July 12, 2024

Hearing God's Call

Psalm 85:8-13; Amos 3:1-12; Colossians 4:2-18
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Complementary Reading Plan)
(Ordinary 15)

Introduction

Psalm 85:8-13, Amos 3:1-12, and Colossians 4:2-18 collectively emphasize the importance of listening to God's voice, remaining faithful, and being vigilant in our spiritual and communal lives. Psalm 85 assures us of God's peace and salvation for those who remain steadfast in their faith. Amos reminds us that God speaks with purpose, calling His people to accountability and action, urging us to recognize the consequences of ignoring His voice. In Colossians, Paul encourages continuous prayer, wise interactions, and faithful fulfillment of our duties within the Christian community, highlighting the significance of perseverance and dedication in ministry. Together, these passages call us to a deeper understanding of our relationship with God and our responsibilities within His community.

Psalm 85:8-13
Listen to What God is Saying

Psalm 85:8-13 is a passage rich in hope and divine assurance, reflecting the psalmist's trust in God's promise of peace and salvation for His people. In these verses, the psalmist listens for the voice of the Lord, who speaks of peace to His faithful, and envisions a future where steadfast love and faithfulness meet, and righteousness and peace kiss each other. The imagery beautifully portrays a harmonious world where truth springs up from the ground and righteousness looks down from the sky, symbolizing the fullness of God's blessing and the flourishing of His creation. This section of Psalm 85 invites believers to anticipate and participate in the realization of God's righteous kingdom on earth.

8    Let me hear what God the LORD will speak,
        for he will speak peace to his people,
        to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts.
9    Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him,
        that his glory may dwell in our land.

10  Steadfast love and faithfulness will meet;
        righteousness and peace will kiss each other.
11  Faithfulness will spring up from the ground,
        and righteousness will look down from the sky.
12  The LORD will give what is good,
        and our land will yield its increase.
13  Righteousness will go before him,
        and will make a path for his steps.

Expository Commentary

Verse 8: In this verse, the psalmist positions himself as a listener, eager to hear God's voice. The emphasis is on God speaking peace, which implies a message of comfort and reconciliation to His people, the faithful who genuinely seek Him. The act of turning to God in their hearts suggests repentance and a sincere desire to align with God's will.

Verse 9: Here, the psalmist assures that God's salvation is imminent for those who revere Him. The term "fear" denotes deep respect and awe, rather than mere fright. The promise of salvation is tied to the manifestation of God's glory in the land, indicating a tangible presence and divine favor among the people.

Verse 10: This verse uses vivid imagery to depict the harmonious relationship between key divine attributes. "Steadfast love" (hesed) and "faithfulness" (emet) are fundamental aspects of God's character, often intertwined in biblical texts. Their meeting suggests an ideal state of mutual reinforcement. Similarly, the kiss between "righteousness" (tsedeq) and "peace" (shalom) symbolizes the perfect union of justice and harmony, implying that true peace cannot exist without righteousness.

Verse 11: The imagery here conveys a vision of creation itself participating in divine virtues. Faithfulness, emerging from the earth, signifies human response and moral integrity, while righteousness, descending from the heavens, represents divine justice. This suggests a reciprocal relationship where God's righteousness inspires human faithfulness, creating a flourishing, righteous environment.

Verse 12: The psalmist expresses confidence in God's provision. The "good" given by the LORD encompasses both spiritual and material blessings. The land yielding its increase signifies agricultural prosperity, reflecting God's favor and the resulting abundance that comes from living in accordance with His will.

Verse 13: In this concluding verse, righteousness is personified as a herald or forerunner for God, preparing the way for His coming. This implies that God's actions are always preceded by and rooted in righteousness. The imagery of making a path suggests preparation and the establishment of order, paving the way for God's presence and actions among His people.

Overall, Psalm 85:8-13 presents a hopeful vision of divine favor, characterized by peace, salvation, and the harmonious interplay of God's steadfast love, faithfulness, righteousness, and peace. It encourages believers to live faithfully, with the assurance that God's righteousness will ultimately lead to a blessed and prosperous existence.

Amos 3:1-12
Who Can but Prophesy?

In Amos 3:1-12, the prophet Amos delivers a stern message from God to the people of Israel, emphasizing the unique relationship they share with the Lord and the consequent responsibilities. This passage begins with a reminder of Israel's chosen status among all families of the earth, highlighting that their privilege comes with heightened accountability. Through a series of rhetorical questions, Amos underscores the certainty of God's impending judgment due to the nation's persistent sins. The imagery of a roaring lion and the inevitable consequences of a trap being set reveal the inescapable nature of divine retribution. This section serves as a profound warning that God's justice is both imminent and unavoidable, urging the people to recognize their transgressions and the dire need for repentance.

3 1 Hear this word that the LORD has spoken against you, O people of Israel, against the whole family that I brought up out of the land of Egypt:

2    You only have I known
        of all the families of the earth;
    therefore I will punish you
        for all your iniquities.

3    Do two walk together
        unless they have made an appointment?
4    Does a lion roar in the forest,
        when it has no prey?
    Does a young lion cry out from its den,
        if it has caught nothing?
5    Does a bird fall into a snare on the earth,
        when there is no trap for it?
    Does a snare spring up from the ground,
        when it has taken nothing?
6    Is a trumpet blown in a city,
        and the people are not afraid?
    Does disaster befall a city,
        unless the LORD has done it?
7    Surely the LORD GOD does nothing,
        without revealing his secret
        to his servants the prophets.
8    The lion has roared;
        who will not fear?
    The LORD GOD has spoken;
        who can but prophesy?

9    Proclaim to the strongholds in Ashdod,
        and to the strongholds in the land of Egypt,
    and say, “Assemble yourselves on Mount Samaria,
        and see what great tumults are within it,
        and what oppressions are in its midst.”
10    They do not know how to do right, says the LORD,
        those who store up violence and robbery in their strongholds.
11    Therefore thus says the LORD GOD:
    An adversary shall surround the land,
        and strip you of your defense;
        and your strongholds shall be plundered.

12 Thus says the LORD: As the shepherd rescues from the mouth of the lion two legs, or a piece of an ear, so shall the people of Israel who live in Samaria be rescued, with the corner of a couch and part of a bed.

Expository Commentary

Verses 1-2: The passage opens with a direct address to the people of Israel, reminding them of their unique covenant relationship with God. The phrase "You only have I known" signifies an intimate and exclusive relationship. However, this special status comes with greater accountability, and because of their numerous sins, God declares His intent to punish Israel.

Verses 3-6: Amos uses a series of rhetorical questions to illustrate the principle of cause and effect. These questions are designed to demonstrate that certain actions naturally lead to certain consequences. Just as a lion's roar indicates it has caught prey and a bird falls into a snare only if the trap is set, so too does Israel's impending disaster signify that God is acting in response to their sin.

Verses 7-8: Here, Amos emphasizes the role of prophets as God's messengers. God reveals His plans to the prophets, ensuring that the people are warned. The metaphor of the lion roaring again underscores the certainty and fearfulness of God's message. When God speaks, the prophets are compelled to deliver His word.

Verses 9-10: Amos calls for foreign nations (Ashdod and Egypt) to witness the corruption and chaos within Israel. This public proclamation of Israel's sins serves to shame the nation. The Israelites' failure to do right and their accumulation of violence and robbery in their strongholds highlight their moral and social decay.

Verses 11-12: The prophecy concludes with a declaration of impending judgment. An enemy will surround and devastate Israel, leaving them defenseless and their strongholds plundered. The image of a shepherd rescuing only parts of a sheep from a lion's mouth symbolizes the total destruction that will come upon Israel, leaving only remnants of their former prosperity.

In conclusion, Amos 3:1-12 presents a powerful message of accountability and inevitable judgment. The passage underscores the seriousness of Israel's sin in the context of their special relationship with God. Through vivid imagery and rhetorical questions, Amos communicates the certainty of divine retribution and the crucial role of prophets in delivering God's warnings. This section serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of failing to uphold the covenant with God.

Colossians 4:2-18
Declaring the Mystery of Christ

Colossians 4:2-18 serves as the concluding section of Paul's letter to the Colossians, emphasizing the importance of steadfast prayer, vigilant thanksgiving, and wise conduct towards outsiders. In this passage, Paul encourages the believers to pray for him and his ministry, ensuring that he proclaims the mystery of Christ clearly. He also provides final instructions for interpersonal relationships within the Christian community and extends personal greetings and commendations to various individuals, highlighting the interconnectedness and mutual support within the early church. This section encapsulates Paul's pastoral care and his dedication to fostering a strong, prayerful, and united Christian community.

4 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving. 3 At the same time pray for us as well that God will open to us a door for the word, that we may declare the mystery of Christ, for which I am in prison, 4 so that I may reveal it clearly, as I should.

5 Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the time. 6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer everyone.

7 Tychicus will tell you all the news about me; he is a beloved brother, a faithful minister, and a fellow servant in the Lord. 8 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts; 9 he is coming with Onesimus, the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you about everything here.

10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, as does Mark the cousin of Barnabas, concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him. 11 And Jesus who is called Justus greets you. These are the only ones of the circumcision among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me. 12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you. He is always wrestling in his prayers on your behalf, so that you may stand mature and fully assured in everything that God wills. 13 For I testify for him that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. 14 Luke, the beloved physician, and Demas greet you. 15 Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. 16 And when this letter has been read among you, have it read also in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you read also the letter from Laodicea. 17 And say to Archippus, “See that you complete the task that you have received in the Lord.”

18 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.

Expository Commentary

Verses 2-4: Paul begins this passage with a call to persistent prayer: “Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with thanksgiving” (v. 2). He emphasizes the importance of being watchful and thankful, suggesting that prayer should be a regular, mindful practice infused with gratitude. Paul then requests prayers for himself and his companions, specifically asking that God may open a door for their message and that they may proclaim the mystery of Christ clearly (vv. 3-4). This highlights the interconnectedness of the church and the need for mutual support in ministry.

Verses 5-6: Paul advises the Colossians on how to interact with non-believers: “Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the most of the time” (v. 5). He urges them to act with wisdom, implying that their behavior can influence how others perceive the Christian faith. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of gracious and seasoned speech: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer everyone” (v. 6). This metaphor suggests that their words should be both kind and impactful, able to provide a thoughtful response to anyone who inquires about their faith.

Verses 7-9: Paul introduces Tychicus and Onesimus, who will inform the Colossians about Paul’s situation: “Tychicus will tell you all the news about me; he is a beloved brother, a faithful minister, and a fellow servant in the Lord” (v. 7). Tychicus is commended for his faithfulness, and Onesimus is described as “the faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you” (v. 9), underscoring the bond within the Christian community and the importance of trusted messengers.

Verses 10-14: In this section, Paul conveys greetings from his companions: “Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, as does Mark the cousin of Barnabas” (v. 10). He mentions several individuals by name, including Jesus called Justus, Epaphras, Luke, and Demas. Each person is noted for their specific contributions and relationship to the ministry. For instance, Epaphras is praised for his fervent prayers and efforts on behalf of the Colossians, demonstrating a deep pastoral concern (v. 12).

Verses 15-17: Paul sends greetings to the believers in Laodicea and Nympha and the church in her house: “Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters in Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house” (v. 15). He also instructs that his letter be read to the Laodicean church and that they should read the letter from Laodicea, suggesting a practice of sharing apostolic teachings among different congregations (v. 16). Additionally, Paul encourages Archippus to fulfill his ministry: “See that you complete the task that you have received in the Lord” (v. 17), providing a personal exhortation to persevere in his calling.

Verse 18: Paul concludes with a personal touch, writing the final greeting in his own hand: “I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you” (v. 18). This closing emphasizes Paul’s imprisonment and his reliance on the grace of God, while also serving as a reminder of his dedication and the sacrifices made for the gospel. It reinforces the authenticity of the letter and his personal connection with the recipients.

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