Pentecost 22 – More Than We Expect

More Than We Expect

A short reflection based on Deuteronomy 34:1-12 and Matthew 22:34-46

Moses stands on Mount Nebo looking towards the Promised Land. After 40 years of leading God’s people, he can see the future, but he won’t enter it. His story reminds us that faithfulness doesn’t always mean seeing the final result of our work.

This can be difficult to accept. We naturally want to finish what we’ve begun, protect what we’ve built and know that our efforts have succeeded. Yet God’s purposes are larger than any one person. Moses had brought the people to the threshold. Joshua would lead them forward. Moses’ task mattered deeply, even though the story continued without him.

Jesus also brings us back to what matters most: love God with all your heart, soul and mind, and love your neighbour as yourself. These aren’t separate duties. Love of God should shape how we treat others, while healthy love of self helps us receive God’s grace and serve without losing ourselves.

Jesus then challenges people to expect more from the Messiah. Christ doesn’t simply preserve the past or confirm our assumptions. He leads us towards God’s surprising future.

Churches and communities often stand on similar thresholds. Familiar ways change, responsibilities pass to others and the future may feel uncertain. These readings invite us to let go without despair. We can honour what has been, bless those who come after us and trust that God is still at work.

God’s future may look different from what we expected, but it remains filled with grace, justice, love and hope.

Faithfulness includes letting go. We can trust others to continue work that God began through us.

Love is our true measure. Our choices should deepen love for God, neighbour and ourselves.

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-22-25-october-2026