The Fourth Sunday After Pentecost (Proper 8C), June 27, 2004
1 Kings 19:15-16,19-21; Psalm 16 or 16:5-11; Gal. 5:1,13-25; Luke 9:51-62
In all the lessons for today, major changes are set before several people. It is up to each one to decide whether he will accept them. The promise of good things is compelling, but the demands that come with the promise are huge.
In the first lesson, Elisha is suddenly called to be the successor to the prophet Elijah. Elijah left no book of his prophecies, for his prophecies were more of works than of words. He successfully bore testimony to the power of the God of Israel in a time of marked persecution of all who followed the Lord. King Ahaz of Israel and especially his infamous pagan wife, Jezebel, abused authority and sentenced many of the faithful to death. Even Elijah fled at one point for his life and became disenchanted with his ministry. Now renewed, he is called to one last set of great actions that will ensure the overcoming of the enemies of the Lord, for he is to anoint new leaders in a nation known for its appalling unfaithfulness. Elisha, plowing the fields, is chosen without warning to follow Elijah and serve as his successor.
The lesson from Galatians presents a sharp contrast for believers who are "called to freedom" (Gal. 5:13). In the same verse, they are exhorted not to use their freedom "as an opportunity for self-indulgence." Though now redeemed by Christ, they are exhorted to "live by the Spirit" and "not satisfy the desires of the flesh" (5:16). When Jesus sets his face to go up to Jerusalem where he will be crucified, three encounters with would-be disciples provide an opportunity for him to teach about absolute dedication.
In all three lessons, the one who calls is fully authoritative and reliable. Elijah is well known as a faithful and powerful prophet. The converts in Galatia have already personally experienced the power of the Spirit and seen miracles worked among them (Gal. 3:2-5). The three visitors to Jesus must have known of his reputation or they would not have sought him out and made their offers to follow him. Yet in each case, there is evidence of some hesitation. Elisha wishes to bid farewell to his parents; the Galatians are wavering in their faith and considering taking on observance of the law of Israel in addition to or in place of the gospel; the three visitors to Jesus all have a need for correction or encouragement. What does God demand in discipleship?
Look It Up
The psalm for today provides the proper response to the dramatic calls issued in the other lessons. Where there is a measure of uncertainty in these lessons, the psalm has none.
Think About It
If a call of God comes from an eminently reliable and trustworthy source, what makes us hesitate?
Next Sunday
The Fifth Sunday After Pentecost (Proper 9C), July 4, 2004
Isaiah 66:10-16; Psalm 66 or 66:1-8; Gal 6:(1-10)14-18; Luke 10:1-12, 16-20
