Proper 18B (RCL) – A Preacher’s Ponderings

The challenge of difference

Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost; 5 September 2021; Proper 18B (RCL); Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23; Psalm 125; James 2:1-17; Mark 7:24-37.

The story of the Syrophoenician woman has always made Christians uncomfortable. Since when does Jesus insult people (besides religious authorities)? It doesn’t fit with our picture of Jesus. And to deny a healing, no less.

A voice for the voiceless

9 September 2018
Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Proper 18B (RCL)
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Psalm 125
James 2:1-17
Mark 7:24-37

This passage in Mark makes us uncomfortable. Was Jesus really this rude to anyone? Matthew attempts to soften the passage by having the disciples complain to Jesus that she won’t leave them alone. But it stands starkly in Mark. Jesus calls her a dog. Continue reading “A voice for the voiceless”