Proper 3
May 25, 2008

(Because of the early Easter, the readings from Epiphany 8 are used.)
Isaiah 49:8-16; Psalm 131; I Corinthians 4:1-5; Matthew 6:24-34

Here is another good set of scriptures.  This Sunday we will be recognizing our graduates, both college and high school.  We have four graduates this year.  I have been putting together a video of pictures from our graduates and we plan on showing that after worship at a little luncheon that we are putting on for them.  As I was preparing for this Sunday, I wondered from what scripture passage I should preach.  I wanted a message that would be good for our graduates.  Since I usually look ahead to the lectionary readings for the week, I looked at those and found the Matthew passage.  This is a very appropriate passage for our graduates and really for all of us.  We are reminded that we cannot serve two masters.  We can’t serve God and something or someone else.  Yes, I’m expanding the thought that is presented to us.  I don’t know about you, but I am one track minded.  I find it very difficult to multi-task.  Sometimes while I’m at work, I find it hard to talk and ring up a customer.  I am not designed to do things that way.  Maybe you are, but the passage reminds us that God created us to serve Him and that we can’t serve two people or two things at one time.  (On a side note, I probably wouldn’t be a very good waiter.)  The crux of this passage is found in Matthew 6:33, probably one of my favorite scripture passages: “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” That’s pretty good advise for any of us, graduate or not.  I love how this passage concludes: Don’t worry about tomorrow — it has it’s own troubles.  Isn’t that the truth.  Thank you Lord, for your Word to me this morning.

Not only is the Matthew passage intriguing to me this morning, but so is the the 1 Corinthian passage. I’ll just cut and paste it and let it speak for itself.  1 So look at Apollos and me as mere servants of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. 2 Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful. 3 As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this point. 4 My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide.

 5 So don’t make judgments about anyone ahead of time—before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due.

So many Christians, try to judge others motives (and I’m guilty of that.)  We are reminded that this side of heaven we don’t know these things, especially when it comes to other preachers of the gospel.  I, like Paul, cannot trust my own judgement — but the Lord knows — he will examine me and decide.  Great stuff from Paul.  Hope you have a great weekend in Christ.