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July 13
Marked for Freedom
Psalm 24;
2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12-19; Ephesians 1:3-14; Mark 6:14-29
There is some pretty heavy stuff in this series of readings.
King David is in an exultant mood as he accompanies the reclaimed
Ark of the Covenant, the symbol of God's presence, into Jerusalem.
But the danger of familiarity with God and assuming that God can
be controlled by humans is sharply exposed (2 Samuel 6:6-8). David
realizes that there are limits to his influence and power, and the
psalmist reminds us clearly that the true presence of God is
available only to those who are clean of hands and pure of
heart.
Mark confronts us with a story of the apparent victory of evil
over good. Herod and the coalition of government, political, and
commercial interests represented at his dinner party seek to
terminate the prophetic criticism that calls for an end to double
standards. John's summary execution, on the scheming whim of one
of the accused parties, is typical of tyrannical activity in every
age.
Against the background of emperor worship and relentless
persecution of the Christian community by religious and secular
authorities, Paul offers a theological treatise on the nature of
the salvation of God. He reminds us of the everlasting nature of
God's presence, and reiterates to those in fear that before the
world was made God marked us out to be adopted children in Christ.
Paul declares that there are limits to the oppressive powers;
God's pledge is that when the times have run their course,
everything will be brought under Christ.
Reflection and Action
These readings call us to a renewal of our faith in the victory
of God. They invite us to honor God's sovereignty, to recognize
the limits of secular power, and to revisit the source of our
salvation. How might you do this in your life, community, and
church?
PETER B. PRICE is general secretary of the United Society
for the Propagation of the Gospel, an Anglican mission agency
based in London, and practices—with his wife, Dee—a ministry of
hospitality.
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