Dylan's lectionary blog

Dylan's lectionary blog Dylan made me think up a question. Could all these parables be eschatological? Being brought up a pre-millenialist, I initially reject that. But there is no reason I guess not to hold the here and now coming of the kingdom taut with the expectation of a more perfect rule at the end.

What is of value? (Proper A12 using Genesis text)

Jacob so valued and loved Rachel, he worked 14 years for her. The psalmist says,

Happy is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways. You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be happy, and it shall go well with you.

What do we value so that we would work for it? God values his covenant.

He values his word of promise to us, Paul declares, who can separate us from the love of Christ? Nothing can overcome the work of God to fulfill his word.

What do we value? Do we see the value in the kingdom? Do we reciprocate God's determination. Have we found the pearl of Great Price? or the treasure hidden in the field?

God my Help (Proper A12 Using 1 Kings text)

Solomon asks God for more wisdom and understanding in ruling his people. The psalmist glorifies the Word of God and understanding.

"The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple."

God's help is freely given. The spirit intercedes for us with groanings, the Son intercedes in the court of heaven; if God is for us who can be against us?

In the parables of the kingdom, Jesus shows how with God little becomes big. The leaven works its magic, and the seed grows tall. As my friend Glenn is fond of saying, "God doesn't help those who help themselves; he helps those who have no possibility of helping themselves. That is the gospel." God will take the little he has given us and make it big. He is our supplier and help.

Ian Pollock - Miracles and Parables

Ian Pollock - Miracles and Parables

What do you see? Please comment this painting has been haunting me since I saw it last year!