Changes
AM Psalm 18:1-20 • PM Psalm 18:21-50
1 Samuel 16:14-17:11 • Acts 10:17-33 • Luke 24:36-53
Most of the time we don’t like change. We prefer the old, the familiar, the comfortable. But sometimes change is good – very good.
In the readings assigned for today, there are many options for reflection. But I was struck by the differences in the selections for this day.
In Psalm 18 there is praise and thanksgiving but there is much more. When the psalmist’s cry reached God’s ears, God first sends destruction (volcanic eruption, earthquakes, and perhaps a tsunami). Then, God rescues the psalmist but only because he was “righteous”. You must be blameless, pure, humble, and righteous doing all the right things to receive God’s favor and help.
In the 1 Samuel passage, Saul is tormented by an evil spirit from God. I am aware that in those times illness, evil spirits, and other misfortunes were regarded as punishments from God for not being righteous enough. But evil sent from God? And David could be helpful because he was a “man of good presence and the Lord is with him.” (Righteous?)
And all the blessings of being righteous only applied to those chosen of God – the Israelites.
Ah, but then come the readings from Acts and Luke! Paul has just had the vision of all creatures being lowered in a sheet and being told “It is not for you to proclaim what is profane what God counts clean.” When the summons comes from Cornelius, Paul goes and begins his ministry to the Gentiles. The standards of who deserves the grace of God has changed.
And in Luke, the disciples see the risen Lord. Jesus was different but he was their Lord and still teaching them. “Repentance and forgiveness are to be proclaimed in his name to all nations.” There is no mention of storms or evil spirits.
So, in these passages we have moved from having to be righteous and be an Israelite to receive the blessings of a God who might send an evil spirit to us, to an inclusive God of repentance and forgiveness for all people. It no longer is about outward actions but inward change. We are now called to listen, learn, love, and change inwardly. This change I embrace. Thanks be to God.
Written by Jacqui Brandli
I was born and raised in Fayetteville and St. Paul’s has always been my “home” church. I am so grateful to have our liturgy and music live and in person again.