Tags
Proper 14
August 12, 2007
Graphic design courtesy of www.Heartlight.org
In this week’s readings, the prophet Isaiah’s words from God cut to the quick, especially for those of us who do “worship planning.” These words come from the opening passage of the book of Isaiah. If our heart is not right, God doesn’t really care much about our worship. When it comes to worshiping God, here is what He desires, “16 Wash yourselves and be clean! Get your sins out of my sight. Give up your evil ways. 17 Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.” The prophet’s words precede the words of James when he writes, “Pure and lasting religion that the Father accepts is to take care of the widows and orphans in their distress and to keep yourself from being polluted by the world.”
It really makes you think, if I never played or sang another note of music in my life, could I worship my God by doing these two things….Hmmm.
The psalmist echoes the prophets thoughts. I like how it says, “I have no problem with your sacrifices and burnt offerings…but, 23 But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me. If you keep to my path, I will reveal to you the salvation of God.” This is great stuff to remember as we prepare ourselves for worship tomorrow.
The gospel writer reminds us to keep our house in order as we build God’s Kingdom, because we never know when Christ will return.
And finally the writer of Hebrews reminds us of our faith journey. We are even reminded that Abraham and Sarah were counted righteous because of their believe in God. We are even reminded that they were promised something down the road. It really helps us understand that Christ was God’s plan A from the very beginning. Blessings as you worship this weekend.
