November 11 – Twenty-fourth after Pentecost

Remembrance Sunday

 

Ruth 3:1–5; 4:13–17

Ruth marries Boaz and restores the family line.

 

Psalm 127 (VU p. 851)

Unless God builds the house.

 

Hebrews 9:24–28

Christ, the once-and-for-all sacrifice for sin.

 

Mark 12:38–44

The widow offers two small copper coins.

Spark

What images might you share that emphasize the Good News of our faith alongside the traditional symbols of Remembrance Day?

Theme Engagement Question

What is your experience of sacrifice? Was it “sweet and right” (dulce et decorum est pro patria mori—It is sweet and right to die for one’s country) or was it just sacrifice?

With Children

Since it is Remembrance Day and Remembrance Day does not often fall on Sunday, talk to the children about poppies, about what they symbolize, and about what we remember on Remembrance Day. An appropriate children’s book is Proud as a Peacock, Brave as a Lion by Jane Barclay (Tundra Books, 2009) in which a grandfather tells, in simple phrases, the meaning for him behind Remembrance Day.

Sermon Starter

One might want to playfully emphasize the sex scene as Ruth seduces Boaz. The euphemism “uncover his feet” has nothing to do with the appendages at the bottom of his legs upon which he walks, but refers to that portion of his anatomy at the other end of his legs. If one were going this route it might be good to focus on the earthiness of this story, its humanity. These were flesh and blood human beings and not plaster saints. So, too, are the men, women, and youth who serve in war. The World War I English poet, Wilfred Owen, has some very poignant and powerful verses about his battlefield experiences. He died at age 25, on November 4, 1918, just seven days before Armistice. Consider using his poem “Dulce et Decorum Est” (www.warpoetry.co.uk).

 

There is also a powerful connection between the sacrifices acknowledged on Remembrance Day and the gospel story of the widow who gave all that she had. The young folk in wars gave and still give all that they have, laying down their lives for others. The sacrifices made in war and in other situations do not necessarily feel “sweet and right” regardless of the outcome. Where is God in these sacrifices?

Hymns

VU 218            “We praise you, O God”

VU 222            “Come, let us sing”

VU 526            “Weep for the dead”

VU 527            “God! As with silent hearts”

VU 679            “Let there be light”

MV 72             “Why stand so far away”

MV 78             “God weeps”

MV 79             “Spirit, open my heart” (as introit)

 

Prayer

VU 525            “You Embrace All Peoples” (a prayer fitting with the theme from Ruth)