(11 May 2014, 26 April 2015)
The Collect:
ALMIGHTY God, who shows to them that be in error the light of your truth, to the intent that they may return into the way of righteousness; Grant unto all them that are admitted into the fellowship of Christ’s Religion, that they may eschew those things that are contrary to their profession, and follow all such things as are agreeable to the same; through our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Readings:
Genesis 45:3-10; Psalm 57; 1 Peter 2:11-17; John 16:16-22
Reflection:
This Sunday we are reminded of consistent biblical pattern: suffering and pain is temporary, while joy is eternal. In the Gospel, Jesus pointed this out to his disciples concerning his approaching death and resurrection. In the Old Testament, Joseph pointed out that his years of slavery have been orchestrated by God to bring about the safety of his entire family. The Psalm takes this up in prayer, recognizing a dangerous situation, but celebrating God’s deliverance as if it had already happened. The Collect and Epistle, then, take this theme and applies it very practically: because we know that the pain and suffering of life this world is temporary and the joy of God’s kingdom is eternal, we ought to live in such a way that is consistent with that eternal life.
