From the Pastor

Sunday Reflection upon Proverbs 22 & Psalm 125

Being known by God is far more important than making a name for oneself or in a collective sense of ‘how great we are.’. Similarly, being known by others as a decent human is of more excellent value than being arrogant and making a name for oneself or gaining riches and fame. This emphasis on character development, the continuous process of personal growth and self-improvement, should inspire and motivate us as followers of Christ, knowing that we are a work in progress. How do we make a name for ourselves with God and others in an ethical sense?

We can make a name for ourselves ethically by treating others with respect, standing up for the oppressed, and using our resources to help those in need. These actions are not just commendable, but they are urgent and necessary in our world today.  Furthermore, take heed lest you learn the ways of hotheads and those given over to anger. We must be careful that we imitate not the way of anger but the way of love and compassion. Remembering that God recognizes those who look out for the most vulnerable is crucial. His approval is the ultimate goal. God will ultimately judge us for injustices and to defame God’s image in others in a personal or social sense.

Sunday Reflection upon Deuteronomy 6:1-9

Many of you may recall the phrase ‘taking care of business’ from an earlier era. In the context of Deuteronomy and the Church, ‘taking care’ is not just a suggestion but a responsibility. It means to be diligent and faithful in following the Lord’s commandments. The Lord’s message to the ancient Israelites and their Scripture story is a testament to their struggles to ‘take care and watch themselves closely.’ We, too, are called to this responsibility.

Less we lean toward Christian triumphalism; this Scripture Reading reminds us to also ‘take care’ because we know from the history of Christianity that we have failed more than once when it comes to revealing to the world God’s love and compassion shown in Jesus Christ. Our history is marked by instances where we strayed from love and compassion, often resorting to judgment and condemnation. Nevertheless, in celebrating the Lord’s Supper, we ‘take care’ to continue the tradition of ‘remembering the night in which the Lord gave himself up for us,’ a sacrifice that we should always hold in reverence and gratitude.