For Sunday
Proper 8A
Collect
Almighty God, you have built your Church upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone: Grant us so to be joined together in unity of spirit by their teaching, that we may be made a holy temple acceptable to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Reading
Reflection
Jesus is talking to his disciples here. This reading, at the end of chapter 10 in Matthew is the conclusion of one long sending speech. He’s been healing people from all over. And then turns to his closest followers and dubbed them Apostles, telling them to go out into the world and proclaim the Good News and heal people like he does.
Of course, Jesus seems to get real with them, too. He says that it’s going to be tough out there. Some people will listen. And if they do, hang with them a time. But if they don’t, then get out of there.
The language Jesus uses in Matthew is pretty harsh and challenging. Some might say that Jesus is lowering the bar for their expectations. Or that he’s being “realistic”. But that doesn’t seem entirely it.
I think Jesus is reminding them that some people really don’t get what Jesus is about. That the offer of peace is something that we all desire. But some of those who desire peace really love war, too. And they want peace to look a lot like having their way.
Jesus ends the speech talking about welcome. That welcome means something more than being nice. It isn’t duty or an expectation. It is a gift. To welcome like Christ welcomes. Like God welcomes. Sharing love without payment or responsibility. Genuine love of neighbor or stranger.
Like the gift we receive of being welcomed. Loved. Generously.
After all the bold talk of wolves and danger out there in the world Jesus is sending these apostles. He assures them that welcoming others, the most ancient law of love, is our assurance. Of God’s love and welcome. Now and in the time to come.