The Second Sunday After Pentecost (Proper 6C), June 13, 2004
2 Sam. 11:26-12:10,13-15; Psalm 32 or 32:1-8; Gal. 2:11-21; Luke 7:36-50
In all the lessons for today, we are shown on the one hand evidence of human frailty and inconstancy, even to the point of sin, contrasted with the rock-solid, absolute foundation of the truth of God, expressed in conviction of sin and mercy leading to forgiveness.
The first lesson presents the dramatic confrontation of David the king by the prophet Nathan. In succession, David has acted on lust with adultery, and then sought to cover up that sin with deception, manipulation, and finally murder of the innocent. In his heart, he knows he has done wrong, else he could never have responded with outrage to the story Nathan told about the poor man whose lamb was taken.
Nathan, surely one of the wisest of the prophets, addresses David’s sin with consummate skill by having David convict himself, by calling upon David’s own sense of righteousness to provide the condemnation. David’s response to the assertion, “You are the man!” is answered with, “I have sinned against the Lord” (2 Sam. 12:7,13).
In the epistle, Paul describes Peter’s inconstancy in his table fellowship with Gentiles. Paul’s words could apply equally well to David: “he stood self-condemned” (Gal. 2:11). As Nathan confronted David, so Paul confronts Peter with the truth of God — in this instance, the very meaning of the contrast between law and grace.
In the gospel, the account of the sinful woman who entered the home of a Pharisee to give dramatic evidence of her devotion to Jesus provides the setting in which Jesus teaches his host and the other guests the value of forgiveness and mercy, and how they lead to the dependable, life-changing love of God. The forgiveness that is given does not come until after the truth of the sin is acknowledged. The gospel lesson says, “Her sins, which were many, have been forgiven” (Luke 7:47). Still, though in forgiveness the ultimate penalty may be set aside, the consequences of sin can still do great damage. “The Lord has put away your sin; you shall not die” is followed by “the child that is born to you shall die” (2 Sam. 12:13-14).
Though it is not stated, the Gentile Christians with whom Peter ate but later shunned must have been affronted. This also is part of the truth that repentant sinners must acknowledge. Penitent and therefore forgiven they may be, but forgiveness must be worked out through whatever consequences may follow sin.
Look It Up
Which single verse in today’s psalm best summarizes the theme of the day?
Think About It
What is the difference between being forgiven and being excused?
Next Sunday
The Third Sunday After Pentecost (Proper 7C) June 20, 2004
Zech. 12:8-10, 13:1; Psalm 63:1-8; Gal. 3:23-29; Luke 9:18-24
