The 15th Sunday After Pentecost (Proper 17A), Aug. 28, 2005

BCP: Jer. 15:15-21; Psalm 26 or 26:1-8: Rom. 12:1-8; Matt. 16:21-27

RCL: Exodus 3:1-15 or Jer. 15:15-21; Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45c or 26:1-8; Rom. 12:9-21; Matt. 16:21-28

In each of the four lessons on this day, the theme of sacrificial service is set forth, with a reward to follow. In the first and last lessons (Jeremiah and Matthew), the sacrifice is supreme and the benefit not obvious. In the other two lessons (the psalm and Romans), the sacrifice is commonplace but the benefit is more clearly stated. In all the lessons, however, the gift of oneself in service to God results in a reward.

Jeremiah reminds Yahweh that “your word was my delight and the joy of my heart” (Jer. 15:16) and that his dedication to Yahweh caused him to set himself apart from sinners. Yet he asks, “Why is my suffering continual?” and informs Yahweh that his protection of his faithful servant is unreliable (15:18). Yahweh is not deceived by Jeremiah’s complaint, and points out that Jeremiah himself must repent to gain the blessing of protection and deliverance from any violence directed toward him by those to whom he must prophesy.

In Matthew, we have the well-known “Get behind me, Satan!” directed toward Peter. Peter, who has just been praised by Jesus for confessing him as the Christ, must have recoiled in hurt and confusion. Well intended and solicitous as his rebuke of Jesus is, Peter is himself corrected. As Yahweh corrects Jeremiah, Jesus corrects Peter. The lesson Jesus has to give is so vital that he explains to all the disciples — not just Peter — that the kingdom can be gained only by losing one’s life for Jesus. Jeremiah’s reward is of dubious value, at least at the first take: “you will survive the violent hatred of those who oppose you.” The disciples’ reward is distant and is only gained by forsaking one’s life.

The psalmist echoes the boast of Jeremiah, that he has held aloof from evildoers. The psalmist, however, is not charged to deliver a public and unpopular message, nor does he mention the rejection of others. He realizes that the alignment of his values with the virtues of the Lord results in love for the Lord, singing, thanksgiving, and glory (Psalm 26:7-8).

The lesson from Romans exhorts the hearers to take on a ministry within the body of Christ. The ministries that are listed are by no means spectacular or glorious. They include teaching, service, encouraging others, almsgiving, administration, and works of mercy. Each of these gifts requires a measure of humbling oneself, an emptying of pride: “never pride yourself on being better than you really are, but think of yourself dispassionately” (Rom. 12:3).

Look It Up

Consider whether Romans 12:2 might be a verse that summarizes the entire theme of today’s lessons.

Think About It

Have you ever found yourself unexpectedly involved in some sort of service to others? If so, did you find an unexpected blessing in it?

Next Sunday

The 16th Sunday After Pentecost (Proper 18A), Sept. 4, 2005

BCP: Ezek. 33:(1-6)7-11; Psalm 119:33-48 or 119:33-40; Rom. 12:9-21; Matt. 18:15-20

RCL: Exodus 12:1-14 or Ezek. 33:7-11; Psalm 149 or 119:33-40; Rom. 13:8-14; Matt. 18:15-20