Consider the Word, June 29, 2023

 
Consider the Word, June 29, 2023
Email stpauls@pei.aibn.com for the link to the Bible Study.
 
Readings for July 2
Genesis 22:1-14
Psalm 13
Romans 6:12-23
Matthew 10:40-42
 
Collect:
Provoking God, calling us through the face of the Other: free our fickle hearts from our need to divide and exclude both the foreign and the misfit; lead us through the storms of rage to a clear and new beginning; through Jesus Christ, whom hatred cannot touch. Amen.
Prayers for an Inclusive Church (2009) alt.
 
The Gospel: Matthew 10:40-42
Jesus said, "Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a prophet's reward; and whoever welcomes a righteous person in the name of a righteous person will receive the reward of the righteous; and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple -  truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward."
 
And again, from the Message, a translation in the modern vernacular:
“We are intimately linked in this harvest work. Anyone who accepts what you do, accepts me, the One who sent you. Anyone who accepts what I do accepts my Father, who sent me. Accepting a messenger of God is as good as being God’s messenger. Accepting someone’s help is as good as giving someone help. This is a large work I’ve called you into, but don’t be overwhelmed by it. It’s best to start small. Give a cool cup of water to someone who is thirsty, for instance. The smallest act of giving or receiving makes you a true apprentice. You won’t lose out on a thing.”
 
Reflection Question
“Welcome”, is not just a greeting in scripture but an invitation to receive support, shelter, food, etc., what if we used the word in the same way?
We can be easily discouraged when people ignore us or refuse to listen to our message, how might we find ways to be heard (and to listen)?
 
Closing Prayer:
Generous and life-giving God,
whose Son became poor for our sake,
hear our prayers,
and let all who draw near to you be healed
and strengthened to serve you
in the power of the Spirit that dwells among us,
through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.