Fifth Sunday of Lent

Luke 19:1-27

These two stories of Jesus in Jericho to me share a common theme of risk taking. If you want to know more about Zacchaeus and the risk you took you should listen to my sermon today (3-9-2008). http://www.fumcr.com/pages/sermons

In the second story about the three servants is also about taking risks. This is hard to hear this story, because the challenge can lead to failure. Two of these men risked what they have been entrusted with and invested in hope of great returns. One played it safe. Here is the part that challenges me. Jesus says the one who played it safe was punished.

It sounds like from this story that Jesus wants us or even expects us to take risks on his behalf and on behalf o what he calls the kingdom of God. I don’t know about risking it all. I like to think things through. I like having things under my control. This message sounds similar to his message of “we have to lose our life in order to save it.”

In this journey, I have found when Jesus issues a challenge us to risk, he matches his words with action. When he issues challenges to people, he also issues them to himself. I experience these stories of risk as more authentic now that we are in Jerusalem. It is not safe in Jerusalem for Jesus as it was in Galilee. I don’t think these stories would mean as much if Jesus had stayed in his comfort zone of Galilee. Jesus own risk taking actions lends to his stories. In the shadow of Roman military rule and great tension, Jesus can not be accused of demanding more from others than he demands of himself.

Questions for Reflection and Comment:

You hear this parable about the servant who was careful and played it safe. You want to ask Jesus questions for clarification.

What do you ask?

How do you pose the question to him?

He shares with you his belief that he does not think he will get out of Jerusalem alive. Jesus asks you to pray for him.

What do you ask him about this perceived risk?

What do you pray for?

What risk do you need to take?

What risk does our church need to take?