Jesus said to the disciples: “You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times … but I say to you ….”
Words that can strike fear in the heart of a Christian. Jesus speaking about commandments, and reminding us that the standard of behavior may even be higher for us than what was seen in traditional Jewish law. Much of today’s gospel reading echoes portions of the Ten Commandments. We, too, are invited to embrace these commandments, not out of fear of retribution, but because God has promised that to do so means life for us.
Sunday’s Preaching Statement:
Family, Feuds & Faith.
The hymn “God, When Human Bonds are Broken” will be featured at the Traditional Services this Sunday and “The Summons” will be featured at the New Day service.
Jesus calls us to embrace standards that exceed legal requirements and traditional expectations, and yet as human beings we always fall short. Today’s hymn is for those very times and seeks to be a release from broken relationships as well as forgiveness for having failed others. In New Day, the call of Jesus to “come and follow me if I but call your name?” is a reminder that we are summoned to service, even in our sinfulness.
