The readings for Pentecost 10 are taken from Isaiah 55:1-5; Romans 9:1-13; and Matthew 14:13-21. The intersection of the three lessons today contrasts the collapsed worldview of corrupt human nature with the infinite and generous worldview of God’s creation.
Isaiah extends a unique invitation based in the green arc kingdom of God’s creation. Isaiah’s words crash into our convictions that we must provide for ourselves by means of the world’s economy. In God’s kingdom, everything is provided for us. Meaningful, enduring work is a gift, not a burden. Jesus makes this evident in the Gospels. Read John 4 and 6 for whole chapters about this.
Paul explains to the Romans the difference between the soul regenerated by God’s Word and human nature bound in the corruption of Adam. Not just the economy, but our identity is contrasted. Corrupt human nature is trapped in pretended autonomy, insisting that our life must be one of our own determinations and labor. Thus, the physical descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were not any different than anyone else and sinned and died like everyone else (see John 8:31ff). Only those generated by God’s promise are children of Abraham and of God. The crowds who followed to hear the words of Jesus, no matter what, are the children of God.
Matthew records how the crowds kept finding Jesus and kept following Him. Jesus embodies the green arc kingdom of God’s creation and redeeming work. Jesus provides in every way and in order of importance. First Jesus healed all who were in need. Then He fed them because they were hungry.