The kingdom of God, the perfect society, is often pictured as a banquet. It is a meal for everyone, not a private dinner for two: the dishes are for all, equally and there is more than enough for everyone.
The miracles of this planet are simply mind boggling. So much life, so much diversity: created by a loving God who lends us this planet in trust. However, do we forget this, acting as if we own it – and in the process, abuse it for our selfish gain? Is it too late; or is there time to realise – and return through Jesus the respect this world deserves, by respecting who truly owns the land?
God asks us to give; but how often do we think of excuses or reasons why perhaps we cannot? If only we had more time, or were more skilled? But if we had the time, the skills, the confidence or the money – how quickly would many of us give this back to God?
Red Sky at Night, shepherds delight; red sky at morning, sailors a warning. How good are you at predicting things? In our Gospel reading, it seems the Jews were unable to move from earthly interpretations of the weather to spiritual interpretations of Jesus.
Predictions for the end of the world are running at roughly one a year: the next is on track for 2020. In 2012, polls over twenty countries found that over 40% of people believed the end of the world would come within their life times. Does it mean anything to us: are we focusing on the treasure in heaven that matters – or on ourselves?
There’s a need for clear communication when we need help – be that in sickness or adversity. We and those that we care for all need help at some time or another at some time in our lives and we need to be able to communicate our need with those around us.
Considering prayer: make it a personal conversation, seeing God as father. After all, a father figure is someone to trust; a father will support us in what we need. Have you thought of how you pray? God knows what is in our hearts and minds – there is no wrong way to pray!
So, we’re half way through Ordinary time, the half a year that follows the excitement of Easter and Pentecost. There aren’t seemingly any great feasts to celebrate, no anticipation as with Lent before Easter or Advent before Christmas. Really, ordinary time? More like boring yawn time – wake me up when it’s Christmas and something is happening, alright?
Three times Martha mentions herself in her complaint to Jesus; she was concerned about what was happening to her – had her focus slipped from Jesus well being to her own?
When we approach Jesus, are we looking for the loophole, for the trick, for an excuse: or are we really open to his challenge? Are we willing to accept help – or do we think that help should look a particular way, or come from a particular professional? Are we willing to accept Jesus – on his terms?