Liturgy for the 16th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B (Mark)
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Lectionary Texts
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
These verses emphasize the importance of wisdom, understanding, and a good reputation. They highlight the value of seeking knowledge and the consequences of foolishness.
Jesus demonstrates the value of a good reputation and righteousness through his teachings and actions. He associates with the poor and marginalized (Matthew 5:3; Luke 4:18) and condemns exploitation and injustice (Matthew 21:12-13; Luke 19:45-46). He lived a generous life.
Isaiah 35:4-7a
This passage describes a future time of restoration and healing. It promises physical and spiritual wholeness for the people of God. Isaiah speaks of a future time of transformation: land will be restored, the broken will be healed, and needs will be met.
Jesus fulfills the prophetic vision of restoration and healing. He performs miracles that restores sight to the blind, heal the sick, and raise the dead (Mt. 11:4-5; John 11:43-44).
Psalm 125
This psalm expresses trust in God's protection and faithfulness. It assures believers that God will uphold those who are righteous. Unmovable Mount Zion is the dominant image of those who trust in God.
Jesus embodies the trust in God's protection and stability depticted here. He assures his followers of God's care and protection, even in the face of hard opposition (John 10:28-30).
Psalm 146
This psalm praises God for his goodness and mercy. It emphasizes the futility of trusting in human beings and the importance of placing hope in God alone. God is praised for faithfulness and justice as the LORD cares for the oppressed, hungry, and marginalized.
Jesus shows care for the oppressed, hungry and marginalized. He feeds the hungry (John 6:5-13), heals the sick, and advocates for justice and compassion (Matthew 25:35-40).
James 2:1-10, (11-13), 14-17
This passage addresses the issue of favoritism and discrimination. It warns against showing partiality to the rich and neglecting the poor, emphasizing that true faith is demonstrated through actions, not mere words.
Jesus' actions and teachings challenge favoritism and living authentically. He joins those without power (Luke 15:1-2), teaches love and compassion (Matthew 22:37-40), and calls us to charity and justice (Matthew 7:21-23).
Mark 7:24-37
This passage recounts the healing of a Syrophoenician woman's daughter. Jesus' encounter with her highlights the importance of faith and perseverance, even in the face of adversity. Jesus exemplifies the care of the Psalmist's Lord in Psalm 146.
A sermon from this passage can be found HERE.
Themes
Faith and Trust: Proverbs and Psalms highlight the value of trusting in God's wisdom and protection, while James and Mark emphasize the power of faith to overcome obstacles and receive healing.
Justice and Compassion: The passages address issues of justice and compassion. Proverbs and James warn against discrimination and favoritism, emphasizing the importance of treating all people with equality. Isaiah and Mark highlight God's compassion and healing power, demonstrating his concern for the marginalized and suffering.
Wisdom and Understanding: Proverbs and Mark emphasize the importance of wisdom and understanding. Proverbs highlights the value of seeking knowledge and the consequences of foolishness, while Mark demonstrates the wisdom and understanding of Jesus in his interactions with others.
Preaching Ideas
1. Sermon Topic: "The Power of Faith"
The gospel passage involves the Syrophoenician woman’s faith and invites us to explore the dimensions of faith. This passage generates questions and curiosity. Faith doesn’t make life easy; it makes things possible, even amid challenges.
Main Point: Faith is a powerful force that can overcome obstacles and bring about miraculous change in our lives.
2. Sermon Topic: "Justice and Compassion: A Call to Action"
With the prophet Isaiah leading the way, the preacher can examine the biblical passage and our society through the lense of God’s desire for justice and compassion while encouraging the listeners to consider their own role in promoting those and taking action.
Main Point: As followers of Jesus, we are called to pursue justice and compassion in our world.
3. Sermon Topic: "The Wisdom of God"
In this liturgical season, James comes to us near the beginning of the school year. It’s an opportune time to speak about how the writers of the Scriptures uphold the virtue of seeking knowledge and wisdom. Especially wise are those who seek God’s counsel, for God’s wisdom is limitless.
Main Point: God's wisdom is infinite and surpasses human understanding.
Call to Worship
One: Let us gather in the presence of the Holy One.
All: Come, let us worship and adore.
One: Let us lift our hearts in praise and thanksgiving.
All: Come, let us sing a new song to the Lord.
One: Let us seek God's wisdom and understanding.
All: Come, let us open our hearts to receive God's grace.
Call to Confession
Lord, we confess our sins of pride and arrogance. We have trusted in our own understanding and neglected your guidance. We confess our sins of selfishness and indifference. We have turned away from your love and pursued our own desires. We confess our sins of fear and doubt. We have doubted your faithfulness and your promises. We ask for your forgiveness and cleansing.
One: Lord may your name be glorified in us and through us. We ask this through Christ Jesus, your only begotten son. It is he who is our Lord and our Savior, our brother and our friend. Amen
Assurance of Pardon
Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved but abides forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people, from this time forth and forevermore! (Psalm 125:1-2)
Friends, this is the good news!
All: Thanks be to God!
Prayer of Illumination
Lord, open our eyes to see your truth. Illuminate our minds with your wisdom. Help us to understand your Word and to apply it to our lives. Grant us the grace to live according to your will.
Prayer of Dedication
Lord, we dedicate ourselves to your service. May our lives be a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to you. Use us for your glory and for the good of others.
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