Great leadership and steering by John Suhar- thanks to all those in attendance for their thoughts and discussion. We welcome men to join us in this interesting review and discussion on Sunday’s Old Testament, New Testament, and Gospel readings; we also offer up prayers for those in need. We meet Wednesday, 7 AM in the Guild Room, coffee & great Danish are provided.
Luke’s story (Luke 15:1-15)includes a much beloved parable: The Lost Sheep and the Sheppard’s Joy. Jesus used this story to explain his ultimate position to the Pharisees that he came to save the sinners not the righteous. At a dinner with tax collectors (a despised group) and local religious leaders Jesus warns the Pharisees that a good Sheppard will do whatever it takes to find a lost sheep and finds great joy in finding the missing. Where are our lost sheep? What must we do to find them?
Most of our discussion focused on the harsh prophesies of Jeremiah (4:11-12, 22-28). The Prophet remained in Judah while the Judeans were captives in Babylon. His words speak to the unrepentant. The dry wind may be a reference to the Chaldean army which invaded and destroyed vast regions of Judea. In the context of today and current events the message has relevance; the unrepentant continue in their ways, oblivious to their failings. “I looked, and lo, the fruitful land was a desert and all the cities were laid in ruins before the Lord.” There is a possibility for the repentant, but the words indicate difficult times.
Timothy brings a message of encouragement “Christ came to save sinners.” Paul is preaching to Timotheus of Lystra and Bercea, one of Paul’s converts. He accompanied Paul on several missionary journeys. At the time Paul was giving Timothy instruction on avoiding heretics and to promote love, purity, uprightness, and faith. Paul is grateful to Christ for all he has done to save him in spite of his shortcomings and sins. The repentant are welcome. Are we open to receive those who repent and want to lead a new life in Christ?
submitted by Walt Jaap
No comments:
Post a Comment