10th Sunday after Pentecost
Isaiah 55:1-5; Psalm 145:8-9, 14-21; Romans 9:1-5; Matthew 14:13-21
The kingdom of heaven, which survived many trials, claims of extinction, and revivals, is still at hand. In Matthew, Jesus has told us what this kingdom is supposed to look like (Matthew 13:1-50), a mustard seed, a bread starter, a treasure hidden in a field, a fine pearl, a net that catches a diversity of fish, a field that is prepared for a diversity of seeds and tendered by Christ. Now we are invited to be part of and participate in this kingdom that belongs to anyone who trusts God and is willing to shine the light of Christ. It is familiar yet very different – the fans of “Chosen” will relate to this – get used to it!
This invitation to participate in far more sacred and better things is not new. It has been there for a long, long time. Centuries before Christ, God spoke through the prophet Isaiah (55:1),
“Ho, everyone who thirsts,
come to the waters;
and you that have no money,
come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
without money and without price.”
Paul reminds the early church in Rome that this invitation belongs to the people of faith of every time and place. The promise is timeless and knows no borders or walls.
The psalmist teaches us to sing,
”Lord, you are good to all,
and your compassion is over all your works.
The Lord upholds all those who fall
and lifts up those who are bowed down.
The eyes of all wait upon you, O Lord,
and you give them their food | in due season (Psalm 148:9, 14-15).”
Bridging Faith 