Year B Pentecost 5 – 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27; Psalm 130; 2 Corinthians 8:7-15; Mark 5:21-43
Equality is a huge topic of conversation in our daily news. Equality of sexes, gender and race occupy much space in daily reporting. The issue is not new, as this week’s readings indicate.
The throne had finally been secured for David. In the abundance of his power, he honoured the family of his nemesis. That act protected the House of David in future generations as the two clans survived future invasions almost 200 years longer than the Israel’s other clans.
The Psalmist cries out of the depths of agony. Realising that if iniquities were tracked, there is no hope of divine forgiveness. Hope is discovered in power of God to redeem in steadfast love.
The apostle encouraged the early church to share of its abundance with those churches that were lacking in resources. The instruction was based on an ancient principle. During the Exodus from Egypt, the miraculous supply of “manna” had ethical boundaries.
- Don’t take more than you can use.
- Don’t hoard what you take.
The Corinthian church was encouraged to share its excess resources with sister churches. It is a practice illustrated by Jesus. He possessed virtue that could heal. That virtue was given to heal a woman and raise a young girl from her deathbed. The ethic is clear: be willing to give of your abundance.
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