Proper 14C (RCL) – A Preacher’s Ponderings

Treasure

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost; 7 August 2022; Proper 14C (RCL); Isaiah 1:1, 10-20; Psalm 50:1-8, 23-24; Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16; Luke 12:32-40.

The reading from Luke’s Gospel for this Sunday seems to contain three unrelated sayings joined together by the Gospel writer. The first one concerns God’s intention to give the hearers the kingdom, which should motivate them to rely on God’s faithfulness. Part of this saying (concerning indestructible purses and treasure stored where thief cannot steal) is found also in Matthew in a different context.

Fear or hope?

7 August 2014
Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost
Proper 14C (RCL)
Isaiah 1:1, 10-20
Psalm 50:1-8, 23-24
Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16
Luke 12:32-40

At first sight, the passage from Luke’s Gospel looks like Luke just strung some several loosely related sayings of Jesus to make this unit. The saying, “Do not fear, little flock,” seems to belong to what came before, which was a set of saying about not worrying about what to wear or what to eat, but it then shifts to an emphasis on incorruptible treasure. Then follows the saying about good slaves waiting for the return of the master from the wedding feast. If he finds them ready when he returns, he will have them recline at table and serve them. Then, we shift to the thief coming in the night. In both instances, returning master and thief in the night, Jesus (or the Son of Man) is the one who arrives.

This poses an odd contrast. Is Jesus’ return something to be anticipated with hope, or with fear? Continue reading “Fear or hope?”