Sunday 10 August 2025

Psalm 33:12-22

Background
Here in Luke’s Gospel we come to part of the instructions Jesus is giving – first to his disciples and then to his wider listening audience. He is spelling out what it requires for us to be part of his kingdom and therefore to transform the world on his behalf.

In this part of the chapter we come to Jesus' harder instructions. We discover his more personal requirements, the sacrifices we are called to make with regard to our finances and goods. It seems that we should be prepared to be sacrificial for the sake of those who are less fortunate than us and that we should be ready when the time comes to be called into the presence of the master.

We should always be awake to what we are being called upon to do, and to offer hospitality, whatever the challenges that come our way. And those who hear what Jesus is saying should always be alert and ready for when the call might come. We might think that the words apply to those with a particular calling, for example the 12 disciples, but whoever fulfills what is being asked of them as a servant will be given a role in God's kingdom.

To Ponder:

• Do we feel that we have the courage to fulfil what is being asked of us here, or are we inclined to reject the message as belonging to the culture of a previous age, and look for other ways of service?
• Are we prepared to look at the world with very different eyes compared to most of our neighbours when we are called upon to be sacrificial? Do we spend time in prayer asking for courage to take up the challenge laid before us?
• Are there times when even those of us who feel committed to our faith wish we could stay hidden from the world in our churches and find it difficult to take the risk of faith, trusting in the Holy Spirit to keep us safe?

Prayer
Lord, we ask that you send your Holy Spirit to help us take up the challenges set before us. Remind us that all people are made in your image and all are given life through your power. Enable us to walk the way of Jesus to play our part in the rebuilding of the world as you intended. Amen.

Bible notes author: The Revd Pat Billsborrow
Pat came into ministry 38 years ago and has been a supernumerary for 19 years. She is happy to continue serving wherever she is needed.