Isaiah 49:14-15; Psalm 61; 1 Corinthians 4:1-5; Matthew 6:24-34
Second Isaiah was writing after the exile of the Jews in Babylon ended in 539 BC. 6 weeks ago Isaiah told us that God wanted his servant, which might be Israel or an individual, to take his salvation to the ends of the earth. Now God promises he will always support his people, using the tender image of a mother’s love for her child. Those who hope in the Lord “shall never be disappointed”. Zion will be restored. The Lord is our “saviour”, our “redeemer”.
Paul’s letter continues with his criticism of the Corinthians for having rival groups. Ministers are accountable as “servants, stewards entrusted with the mysteries of God”. We should not make premature judgements, which will be based on worldly wisdom. Since God is infinitely just there must be a final judgement made by the Lord, putting the whole world to rights. However, Paul does recognise in the next chapter that sometimes the Church has to discipline its members.
In Matthew’s Gospel the sermon on the mount has continued with the Lord’s Prayer. We now hear Jesus’ teaching about worldly possessions. We must choose between God and money. Jesus urges us to have confidence in God, the true meaning of “hope”. Our priority must be righteousness, obeying God’s will. Then our real needs will be met.
Psalm Response: In God alone is my soul at rest.
Isaiah 49:14-15; Psalm 61; 1 Corinthians 4:1-5; Matthew 6:24-34
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