Easter 4
April 25, 2010

Scripture Introductions
by Stewart Clarke

The first reading, from the Acts of the Apostles, is about an active 
and caring woman, the heart of her community (of Lydda, or Ludd, 
where Peter had cured a man of palsy, leading to the conversion 
of all its citizens).   In nearby Joppa, a woman dies.  Luke names her, 
"Tabitha," which he translates as "Dorcas," and which we could translate 
into English as "Gazelle."  She is the only woman named by Luke as a disciple, 
and she became the inspiration of "Dorcas Societies," of women engaged 
in social service in the churches. Ìn the account,"Gazelle" has died, 
and the community has begun to prepare her for burial when someone sends 
for Peter (at nearby Joppa, "Beauty," modern Jaffa. "the oldest city 
on the Mediterranean Sea," the "Bride of Palestine").

(The story is similar to that of Jesus being summoned for a girl who has died, 
in Mark 5, with even Peter's words, of "Tabitha, rise," reminiscent of Jesus' words 
of "Talitha, cumi," verse 41!)

Let's listen to the story of local disciples and an apostle following in Jesus' Way, in:

Acts 9: 36 - 43

(You may prefer to reserve your acclaim until after the Gospel reading, or use traditional words, 
or, add something like, "May we hear the message that Jesus means life! Amen"



The Psalm is the poetic gem of the "Shepherd's Song," in which the poet, traditionally David,  
sees himself as one of God's sheep, and takes us through a symbolic day, 
secure in God's love, even in the most dire situations.
(While it may seem to make sense to shift imagery at one point, to a royal table set 
for a guest, there is no need for the transition.. As the shepherd may stretch out his cloak 
as a "table" for his lunch-time, the whole hillside is available to the sheep, as their "table."  
Each phrase can speak in "sheep language," for us who follow the Good Shepherd.[2])

Let's

Ps, 23



Our third reading speaks of Jesus as the Lamb, replacing Temple sacrifice 
and offering redemption.  For many, the metaphor of sacrifice may require 
"unpacking," or be uncomfortable because it is seen as misused.  
Here, the Lamb is triumphant, and we are invited to picture a heavenly court 
with a huge throng, dressed in white as if just baptized, and singing God's praise.

(We may want to compare the scorching heat with a winter blizzard, 
which is closer to the experience of some of us than the desert experience of the writer.)

Let's listen to the account in:

Rev. 7: 9 - 17

May we offer praise, and trust the Good Shepherd's care.  Amen.



The Gospel story takes place, we are told, at the feast of the Dedication, 
celebrating the rededication of the Temple under Judas Maccabeus in 165, BC (BCE) 
after it had been defiled by pagan ceremonies. Remembering the strength 
of collective memory, we may appreciate the power the date would have, 
even by the time of John's Gospel, written, I understand, around the year 100. 
The feast lasted eight days, and was celebrated with extra light in houses, 
joyous meals and uplifting services in synagogues. The reference to Solomon 
reminds us of his wisdom, and sets the scene for the interchange between Jesus 
and the questioners around him.    It would be around late November or early December, 
so it was the beginning of winter.

Jesus is challenged, yet again, on his role or status. Again, he avoids a yes or no, 
but tries to make people think.  He uses the metaphor of the sheep, 
with himself as Shepherd, on behalf of his "Father.[3]"

Let's rise to honour and be open to the Good News for us in:
(Or: Let's listen closely for the Good News for us in: )

John 10: 22 - 30

May we rejoice in the Shepherd's care. Amen.

(It is appropriate to follow the readings with thanks and praise.)

Notes:

 With thanks to CAM and EMC, in retrospect.
 BTW, I am glad to see the Shepherd's Song, Ps. 23, again.  I have taken more than one congregation through it, step by step, from the initial reference to the going down of the sun through the symbolic day, - at one sitting!  RSC
 This may remind us that, if we really want to know what God is like for us, we begin by learning from Jesus, and counting on his family resemblance. "Father," it seems to me, speaks more of relationship than gender, which is irrelevant, inappropriate and idolatrous when linked with the Eternal.


(Comments to Stew at stewclarke@eastlink.ca.)