Pentecost 2 – Called into the Unknown, Welcomed into Grace

Called into the Unknown, Welcomed into Grace

A short reflection based on Genesis 12:1-9 and Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26

These readings are full of movement. Abram hears God say, “Go,” and he sets out without a map. Matthew hears Jesus say, “Follow me,” and he leaves his tax booth behind. A grieving father comes searching for help. A suffering woman reaches out in hope. In each story, someone takes a step into the unknown.

That is often how faith feels for us too. We may want certainty, security, and a clear plan, yet God’s call often comes as an invitation to trust one step at a time. Abram shows us that faith doesn’t mean having all the answers. Faith is being willing to move when God stirs the heart. Along the way, Abram builds altars, reminding us to pause and notice God’s presence not only at the destination, but in the middle of the journey.

In the Gospel, Jesus also shows us what God’s grace looks like. He calls Matthew, a man others looked down on and then sits at table with those seen as outsiders. He heals the woman who had been excluded and restores the young girl to life. Jesus repeatedly crosses the boundaries people create. He brings belonging where there was shame, dignity where there was suffering, and hope where there was grief.

These stories remind us that God still calls ordinary people in ordinary lives. We don’t need perfect motives or perfect faith. We are simply invited to trust, to follow, and to make room for others at the table of grace.

Faith begins with one step. We don’t need the whole road mapped out before we respond to God’s call.

Grace widens the circle. Jesus keeps welcoming those others exclude, and he asks us to do the same.

Ngā mihi
Philip

p.s. Worship leaders: You can buy a complete Order of Service and Sermon based on these readings here:  https://philipgarsidebooks.com/products/worship-at-hand-pentecost-2-7-june-2026