August 25, 2024. Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost. Year B.
With his hands and feet shackled by rulers and authorities, Paul nevertheless assumes the role of a military outfitter, describing the gear we need to stand firm against this present darkness. We do well to let register Paul’s premise that the Christian life conscripts us into a battle of good vs. evil. But like Jesus sending the disciples on mission with no bag or tunics or even shoes, Paul now sends us like sheep into the midst of wolves with no weapon but words…“take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (v. 17). Elder veterans know from experience that’s the only weapon that ever could subdue the powers.
Preacher: Rev. Dr. Mack Dennis
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