St. Martin and the Beggar (image source)
scripture readings
textweek resources
• collect/opening prayer reflection for February 20 and week following (NZPB & BCP-TEC)
• collect/opening prayer reflection for February 20 and week following (Common Worship CofE)
To be struck on the right cheek (Mt 5:39) means one has been hit with the back of the right hand or the front of the (toileting) left hand. This was a humiliation. As was to be successfully sued in court. To hand over your coat was bad enough – to give the cloak in which you slept… Soldiers were often traitorous mercenaries. It was humiliating, but they could demand you carry their military gear for a mile.
The Mediterranean understanding of love was as attachment to the group and hate is the opposite.
I recently introduced you to the Rev. Dr. Howard Pilgrim, my colleague and friend, and his relatively new resource WaiapuAcademy.org. Here is his introduction to this coming Sunday:
Please add your own reflections, suggestions of hymns, etc.
Sunday of the Prodigal Son in the East.
On this Sunday in our preparation for Lent we contemplate how we have strayed from the Lord and squandered the gifts he has given us
Kontakion (Tone 3)
I have recklessly forgotten Your glory, O Father;
And among sinners I have scattered the riches which You had given me.
Therefore, I cry to You like the Prodigal:
“I have sinned before You, O compassionate Father;
Receive me a penitent and make me as one of Your hired servants.”
Thanks, Andrei. Having that here IMO really enriches us all.