Weekly News | 6.5.26

This Sunday we begin our summer focus on the lectionary’s readings in the Gospel of Matthew. Through it we are invited into the reality that in Jesus there is profound continuity with the work of God through the people of Israel as well as the fulfillment of promise. 

In truth, through the entire summer we will engage a mere 5 chapters (9-14). But don’t let that fool you! In these chapters we will see God-with-us: healing, teaching, sending. Strange sayings that intrigue and slightly unnerve us. Quotidian realities that help us perceive the kingdom of God at hand. Profound power manifested in humble and loving (if risky!) service.

These summer chapters are preceded and followed by healings, a context we might not pick up from being airdropped into the middle of the gospel. I invite us to hold that context in mind as we hear Jesus’ words on Sunday: “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.”

Considering the prevalence of healthcare documentaries and wellness influencers, it appears we perceive in ourselves ailments, seen and unseen. Some diagnosed and grasped, and some seemingly undiagnosable and incomprehensible.

This summer, how might the Lord - through these chapters, through worship, through our life together in Christ - come to us afresh as the Good Physician?

May the God who eats with tax collectors and sinners find in us welcome, and may the Doctor of our souls find in us willing and eager patients. Come, Lord Jesus.

Peace,

Sarah+