Pentecost 10 – Fire!
Lectionary Pentecost 10, Year C
Commentary Pentecost 10
A Word or Two about each Reading
Visual Lectionary, Aug 17, 2025
The four readings from the lectionary are united by the theme of God’s presence, justice, and the challenging call of faith. Jeremiah 23:23–29 reminds us that God is not distant but actively involved, with a word like fire and a hammer that breaks rock—powerful and transformative truth that challenges falsehood. Psalm 82 reveals God standing in judgment over corrupt powers, calling for justice for the weak and needy, echoing the divine demand for righteousness. Hebrews 11:29–12:2 continues this call through the faith of those who endured trials and upheaval, urging us to persevere by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. In Luke 12:49–56, Jesus declares that he brings not peace but division, emphasizing how the gospel confronts and disrupts the status quo, forcing decisions about justice, truth, and faith. Together, these readings call believers to courageous, discerning, and enduring faith in a God who acts decisively in history and in our lives.
Focus on the Gospel
Gospel, “I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! “
Voices from the Gospel, Pentecost 10
Remembering
Clare of Assisi (1194-1253), Aug. 11
Jonathan Myrick Daniels (1939-1965), Aug. 14
Virgin Mary, Aug 15