Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b

Pentecost +8 - Year A

Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b

O give thanks . . .

This message came this morning from "The Universe".

Some people think, (your-name-here), that some things are "meant to be."

Meant by whom?

Not me,
    The Universe (www.tut.com)

It is comforting to think that everything is going to turn out well. Jesus doesn't stay in meditative prayer but comes walking on the water in stormy weather and we take a step or two further than we ever thought we might.

It is encouraging that enslavement will turn around and we will be in charge (talking about your tax and saver - see Joseph in power).

However, neither of these sort of next steps stop with the desired outcome. There is more ministry and death to face. There is not just the enslavement of one, but of a whole extended tribe.

Choosing where to cut the storyline tells much about who we are.

Does John the Baptizer's death end with Jesus finally alone or you walking a step on frothy waves? Does Joseph's enslavement end with his coming to power or the enslavement of his family? Does Paul correctly set this choice aside by saying it is not about either result (go to heaven - go to hell) but doing what is needful in the moment, regardless of the consequence?

So, what is meant and by whom? Where is thanks directed and from whence is more asked?