The 17th Sunday After Pentecost (Proper 21B), Oct. 1, 2006
BCP: Num. 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29; Psalm 19 or 19:7-14; James 4:7-12 (13-5:6); Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48
RCL: Esther 7:1-6, 9-10, 9:20-22 or Num. 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29; Psalm 124 or Psalm 19:7-14; James 5:13-20; Mark 9:38-50
In these lessons we are warned against subtle sins, sins that are all too common among the faithful who might — or might not — avoid more recognizable sins such as greed, lust and anger. The lesson from Numbers presents the people of Israel wailing because they no longer have the easily accessible food that was provided for them while they were slaves. Their wailing begins when “the rabble among the people had a strong craving.” Likely the greater company was not mindful of the perceived lack of familiar food until “the rabble” began to complain. Although the people sinned by showing ingratitude to God for their new-found freedom and lack of faith in his ability to provide for them, it began when they heeded “the rabble.”
In the second lesson, James lashes Christian believers with a denunciation against a variety of common sins: double-mindedness, unseemly levity, speaking evil of others, taking action without being mindful of God’s will, and dishonesty in paying wages.
In the gospel, Jesus points out that Peter’s small-minded jealousy is actually a major hindrance to Jesus’ work and the proclamation of the kingdom.
Hard as these lessons are to read and heed, each also provides a comfort. In the Old Testament lesson, though the Lord’s anger “blazes hotly” at the people’s crying, he listens to Moses and then provides a practical solution. Today we would call it “delegation.” The Lord answers Moses’ needs, and that answer will prove before long that shared leadership will contribute toward addressing the people’s needs as well. They will still suffer consequences for their complaint, but they will return to faith.
The lesson from James begins with the solution: “Submit yourselves to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and he will draw near to you.” Utter dependence upon grace is vital, but we cannot let that dependence discharge the New Testament’s clear and often-repeated teaching that dedicated human effort and perseverance are also vital in achieving “success” in the struggle for growing in sanctity. Jesus teaches the same lesson with words of unforgettable power — we are to “cut off” whatever leads us into habitual sin.
Look It Up
The most comforting lesson of all among these lections is the psalm. Consider how its message puts the final word on the theme for the day.
Think About It
In your self-examination, set aside for a moment your besetting sins that you know so well, and consider where you may also be sinning in subtle and unrecognized ways.
Next Sunday
The 18th Sunday After Pentecost (Proper 22B), Oct. 8, 2006
BCP: Gen. 2:18-24; Psalm 8 or 128; Heb. 2:(1-8)9-18; Mark 10:2-9
RCL: Job: 1:1, 2:1-10; or Gen. 2:18-24; Psalm 26 or 8; Heb. 1:1-4, 2:5-12; Mark 10:2-16
