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Season of Pentecost: Proper 4B

The notion that God actually calls us in diverse ways permeates Scripture. Whether Hebrew or Christian stories, both affirm and confirm God’s initiative and interest in drawing people from their busy-ness to follow God. As one theologian puts it, "We are launched by grace into a calling of discipleship in which the operative word is ‘follow.’ " The first lesson and the gospel lesson both share this theme, while the epistle lesson tackles the tougher issue of keeping on the path of discipleship once we begin. Enjoy your calling (stories!).

1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20)-Speak, Lord! We’re Listening

In this narrative, God calls to young Samuel, though the boy initially mistakes the voice for Eli the priest at Shiloh and his guardian. "Samuel! Samuel!" the voice calls out. After several miscues, Eli the priest suspects that God is calling his charge and instructs Samuel, "Go lie down; and if he calls you, you shall say, ‘Speak, lord, for your servant is listening.’ " Yet again, the Lord stands and calls to Samuel and this time the boy knows what to do. "Speak, for your servant is listening." Thus closes the ministry of Eli and begins the long and fruitful vocation of Samuel the prophet of Israel.

2 Corinthians 4:5-12 - Christ in Us Earthen Vessels

The apostle Paul talks about how we as believers enflesh the life of Christ in spirit even though we are earthen vessels (in which way we also carry the Lord's death). It's a powerful message that inspired many a song writer (see song/hymn section below). Paul is confident that we as the Body of Christ in this world, have a way to transform the world around us through the power of Christ's spirit.

Mark 2:23-3:6 - The Grace in God's Law

Make no mistake, God's law is serious business, with consequences looming large when violated. But as Jesus of Nazareth made clear to the religious leaders in this passage, the sabbath was made for humanity, not the other way around. The law of God serves us, not the other way around. Ultimately, the law is given to protect us, to guide us, to keep us from harm's way and to benefit us. Here we catch a glimpse into God's Grace even in the Law and in this way we can see the God of Love and Grace even in the Hebrew Scriptures.