Sunday reflections

From the moment in Chapter 12 of the Book of Genesis when God promises salvation to Abraham, the story of the Old Testament people is one of them repeatedly being called to faithfulness. In the Book of Deuteronomy, we listen to Moses, who having just received the Ten Commandments, now tells the people not to regard these Commandments as a list of instructions to be obeyed, but words to be written on their hearts.

Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem and, on the journey, he has been emphasising what it means to be his disciple. Peter does not get it, refusing to accept that Jesus must die on the cross. The rich young man does not get it, turning away because the cost of discipleship is too high.

This week’s reading from the Book of Wisdom illustrates the kind of thinking that was common in the ancient world: If God is with someone then, assured of God’s protection, they will prosper. If, on the other hand, they are suffering and not prospering, then it must be that God is not on their side.

A flock of geese flying in formation is a beautiful sight. Scientists who have researched why they fly in a V-formation have discovered some fascinating details.

This week’s reading from the Book of Wisdom illustrates the kind of thinking that was common in the ancient world: If God is with someone then, assured of God’s protection, they will prosper. If, on the other hand, they are suffering and not prospering, then it must be that God is not on their side.

A flock of geese flying in formation is a beautiful sight. Scientists who have researched why they fly in a V-formation have discovered some fascinating details.

This week’s reading from the Book of Wisdom illustrates the kind of thinking that was common in the ancient world: If God is with someone then, assured of God’s protection, they will prosper. If, on the other hand, they are suffering and not prospering, then it must be that God is not on their side.

With the reading from the Gospel of Mark (Chapter 8), we come to a turning point in Jesus’ public ministry, before the journey back to Jerusalem where he will be crucified.

It’s difficult not to make distinctions. Invariably, we favour some people over others. For example: we choose our friends, we choose a person to be our husband or wife, we choose ‘sides’ in disputes, we choose to avoid some people, and we choose to forgive some people and condemn others.

Having observed that Jesus’ disciples were not complying with the religious purification laws of the time which required one to wash one’s hands thoroughly before eating, the Pharisees challenged Jesus once again.