Fruit Worthy of Repentance--Dec. 17, 2020

 

God, I have to say today’s lectionary readings 

paint a horrible picture of human nature:

jealousy, lies, hypocrisy, adultery, 

betrayal of relatives, greed, 

enticing the weak to sin. 

 

Yet—

 

Jesus partied 

with sinners;

forgave adultery,

came to heal the sick, 

including those sick with sin.

 

He was kinder to sinners than he was

to those who considered themselves holy.

The Baptist’s “bear fruit worthy of repentance” 

was aimed at religious leaders, as were

many of Jesus’ admonitions.

 

Fruit worthy of repentance— 

I have a hefty share

to bear.

 

Lectionary Readings

Ps. 18:1-20; 147:12-20; 126; 62

Isa. 9:18-10:4

2 Peter 2:10b-16

Matt. 3:1-12

 

Selected Verses 

Ps. 62:4

Their only plan is to bring down a person of prominence.
          They take pleasure in falsehood;
they bless with their mouths,
          but inwardly they curse.  Selah

 

Isa. 9:21

Manasseh devoured Ephraim, and Ephraim Manasseh,
     and together they were against Judah.

 

2 Peter 2:14

They have eyes full of adultery, insatiable for sin.  They entice unsteady souls.  They have hearts trained in greed.  Accursed children! 

 

Matt. 3:8

Bear fruit worthy of repentance.