Zeph 3: 14-18; Is 12; Phil 4: 4-7; Luke 3: 10-18
About 600 BC Zephaniah preached that Judah’s idolatry would lead to a “day of wrath”. But the Lord “is in your midst” and will mercifully spare a holy remnant. Jerusalem will finally enjoy the peace and joy of the Day of the Lord celebrated in this song, and recalled by Luke: “the Lord is with you”.
Before 700BC first Isaiah prophesied that idolatry and social injustice would bring about the destruction of the northern kingdom Israel. But, he said, “a shoot shall spring from the root of Jesse” bringing justice to the world, and he celebrated this rescue with today’s Psalm.
After instructing the Philippians in right moral behaviour and community living, Paul encourages them to look forward to the Lord’s coming with confidence that the peace of God will come to them. They should celebrate publicly their joy in the Lord, but not so exuberantly that others are offended or put off. They should always show kindness to all.
Luke’s gospel continues from last week with the moral teaching preached by John the Baptist before Jesus started his ministry. Repentance must include conforming to God’s justice. But John insists that he is not the Messiah, who is coming and will baptise with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
Psalm Response: Sing and shout for joy for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.
(Zeph 3: 14-18; Is 12; Phil 4: 4-7; Luke 3: 10-18)