Description
The readings this week from Jeremiah 2:4-13 and Psalm 81:10-16 function as a warning with regard to what happens when we forget who we are. The reading from Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 includes an invitation to remember not just the words and examples of those who have been influential in our lives of faith, but also what Jesus has done. As we hear stories of people who lose their way, focus on the wrong things and stray away from the path of living as people of God, we might be drawn to reflection on where our experience has been similar – and be encouraged to choose a different path.
The reading from Luke 14:7-14 takes place in one of the central settings of Luke’s gospel, a banquet scene. We are given 14:1 to set the scene – a leading Pharisee has invited Jesus for a meal on the Sabbath. We might expect that what follows therefore will be conflict about the nature of hospitality, a key theme in the Gospel of Luke. Jesus shares at the banquet about where one ought to choose to sit at such a gathering. One ought not choose the place of honour high up at the table – but rather place one’s self lower down the table. The parable reminds us of an important concept in relation to who is welcomed and honoured in God’s Kingdom. As we’ve heard several times already in this gospel (eg. The Magnificat 1:51-53 and the Blessings and Woes 6:20-26) there is to be a great reversal. Those who come first in worldly terms will be the last when it comes to God’s Kingdom.
Nb. Most of the time, the Bible reading component of our regular gathering is very sedentary in nature. Somewhat ironically, given the focus of Luke 14:7-14 is around where someone sits, the Sit! resource invites significant movement.
Some might protest that the movement involved in this suggested way of reading the Bible is distracting. Some might find this way of reading the Bible more engaging. Some might consider the text “lost” in the potential for chaos, others might discover that this mode of reading helps emphasise the key aspects of the passage.
Bottom line? You won’t find out how useful (or not) this activity is for your community unless you give it a go!
