Lectionary Discussion for July 27

Ordinary Time/Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost (Green)Genesis 29:15-28 More deception, only this time it is Jacob that gets deceived by Laban. This already dysfunctional family system -- one that has cast out a legitimate child and his mother (Ishmael and Hagar), allowed a younger son to trick his father and steal his brother's birthright and blessing (Rebekah, Jacob and Esau) -- here becomes even more dysfunctional -- two wives in a week, the wrong one first, and the set up in that alone for more trouble to come. And that's not to mention the agreement Laban requires for Jacob to receive the wife he wants -- yet another seven years of service beyond what he had already provided. A family in need of a good family therapist, when will they ever learn? Don’t forget that these two women, Leah and Rachel are the mothers of the 12 tribes of Israel whether by pregnancy or surrogacy. How could Jacob not realize he was having sex with wrong woman! Is there a way to work in the novel The Red Tent, by Anita Diamant? How will you preach this PG life story?
Psalm 105:1-11, 45b (UMH 828)

Romans 8:26-39 Some of the most favorite passages quoted or used of Paul’s from Romans. The Spirit intercedes for us. “All things work together for good for those who love God.” Nothing can separate us from the love of God. But what about the predestination? This is a message of hope, of God’s love, how do we the church make sure that message is getting out there to those not in the church? How will you preach the richness of this passage?

Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 Another parable about the Kingdom. This time it is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field. It is like is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened. It is like treasure hidden in a field. It is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it.. the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind. "Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old." Well you get the picture in fact you could say Jesus was painting a picture of the Kingdom with these images. What images might Jesus use today? How will you preach these parables?