23rd Sunday after Pentecost

Job 42:1-6, 10-17

Psalm 34:1-8, (19-22)

Hebrews 7:23-28

Mark 10:46-52

lectionary:

Season of ordinary time, Year b

Author

Jonathan Cornell

Keywords (11)

Scripture (4)

Date Added

May 21, 2024

Preaching Commentary

What do you want me to do for you, Part 2

Jesus and the disciples are nearing the end of their journey from Galilee to Jerusalem, spanning 100 miles and two chapters in Mark’s Gospel. These verses of chapter 10 mark the last healing narrative in Mark’s Gospel. Throughout chapters 9 and 10, Jesus responds with some of his most prescient teaching on discipleship. In this text, in particular, Jesus offers not just eyesight but insight.

Naming the Easily Overlooked

There is a very interesting juxtaposition at play between the two pericopes 35-45 and 46-52. Both sets of characters are named: James and John, the Sons of Zebedee; and Bartimaeus, Son of Timaeus. Mark’s telling of James and John’s request would seem to suggest…

Discussion Questions

There are a lot of people who meet Jesus whose names we never get: the rich young ruler, the woman with a flow of blood, the Gerasene demoniac, just to name a few. Why do you suppose that Mark gives us Bartimaeus' name? Think of the names of some people in your life who you might have a tendency to overlook (or some people whose names you don't know, even though you interact with them frequently)? Why is a name important?
Do you ever take the time to stop and see someone near you who has a need? Do you ever hurry on by?
One of the oldest Christian prayers is "Kyrie elesion," which simply means "Lord, have mercy." It is a version of what Bartimaeus says to Jesus. Many western churches…

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Hebrews 7:23-28

Lectionary Cycles

Author

Jonathan Cornell

Jonathan Cornell has been serving as the Pastor of Shadle Park Presbyterian Church in Spokane, Washington, since October 2023. Before relocating to Spokane with his family, Jonathan spent a fulfilling decade as the Pastor of Wabash Presbyterian Church in Wabash, Indiana, where he became deeply involved in the life of the congregation and the community. Throughout his ministry, Jonathan has emphasized building strong relationships, fostering spiritual growth, and encouraging active service both within and outside the church.

Jonathan is married to the endlessly thoughtful and adventurous Rev. Jourdan Turner Cornell, a fellow ordained minister who shares his passion for ministry and service. Together, they are raising three children who are rapidly approaching their teenage years, which keeps the family on their toes and ensures there is never a dull moment. Despite their busy lives, the Cornells make time for family adventures and enjoy spending time together exploring new places and creating memories.

Outside of ministry, Jonathan and Jourdan are active in the local community, often attending their children’s sporting and musical events, and making time to relax by sitting on their front porch with friends and neighbors. The Cornells’ commitment to building a supportive and engaging community extends beyond their church family, as they actively participate in their neighborhood and surrounding areas.

In addition to his pastoral work, Jonathan is also the Co-Founder of the South Hill Turkeys Baseball Club in Spokane, a local baseball team for men over 40 who find themselves far past their athletic prime but continue to enjoy the camaraderie and fun of the game. Through his work as a pastor and his involvement in the community, Jonathan remains dedicated to serving others, building connections, and fostering growth in every aspect of his life.