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This week’s lectionary readings speak volumes into every arena of our lives. They were originally written in turbulent times; not much different to ours with our political agendas, wars in Israel and other places, and in a time when so few want to come into the Kingdom of God due to their own agendas and the lack of knowledge and love of God. So, as we come to read the parable of the wedding feast (Matthew 22) and Philippians chapter 4, let us open our hearts and ears to what God is saying to us today.
Before I get into that, I do want to share on the deep and meaningful discussion I had with my indigenous gardener this morning. He raised the topic and asked how I was going to vote? I said, “I’m not yet decided as I don’t know enough to understand it all properly”. He said his grandmother is black as black, and his vote is “No”. He went on to give his reasons why and also made sure to say that the way people vote won’t separate him from his friends. I share that sentiment and want to again reassure our congregation that I will never seek to influence your vote; whether you vote yes or no, is none of my business. So, please be reassured that the acknowledgment of country we have on the welcome screen at Church has no political underlying agenda or overtones. We are simply seeking to be an inclusive, respectful church before God and seeking ways to implement the 11 new Safe Ministry Government standards in ways that honour God and love all people. I’m sure there are better ways to do that, so if you’d like to play a part in the planning of best ways forward, please speak to me about this. Back to the scriptures… In Philippians, Paul describes a different reality alongside the violence and duplicity of the Roman empire of his day. He sought to encourage the small and struggling Christian congregation in the Roman colony of Philippi by reminding them to have faith in the powerful Lord who has defeated death. He exhorted them to have quiet minds, hopeful hearts, and joy-filled attitudes. Today, in our own circumstances, Paul’s words encourage us to have the same peace, hope and joy. He reminds us to rejoice in the Lord always. And, this week I have experienced this afresh by drawing closer to the Lord in prayer. Being close to God is like being a joy-filled guest at a wedding feast, as Matthew 22 depicts. In the parable Jesus told: The father (God) invites all to enter His Kingdom (the wedding feast) but many will refuse and miss out on the wonderful experience. Only those who are glad to enjoy His company, honour His son and learn of His love, will experience the fulness of this Joy-filled experience. We can all know this joy by accepting God’s generous invitation, coming into His kingdom, through and for His son, and experiencing His intimate love for ourselves – personally. There is no greater joy than spending time in the presence of God. May we each experience this daily in our respective lives, and all together this coming Sunday. God is with you and for you, Rev Tanya
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