ICF - Professions of Faith

Sunday 28th September 2025 - 16th Sunday after Pentecost

Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15; Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16; 1 Timothy 6:6-19; Luke 16:19-31.
(Alternatives: Amos 6:1a,4-7; Psalm 146)

A central strand that is riven through today's readings is one of where our faith and our priorities ultimately lie. Each of the Psalm readings in different ways invites the reader to put rely upon God, while the Gospel reading is a stark challenge to those who enjoy earthly wealth and success yet neglect their duty to their fellow citizens. A congregation might helpfully note that the rich man is not condemned for his wealth but his indifference to others. Our world can sometimes be quick to judge those who are considered wealthy, successful and influential on this basis alone, and it may be helpful to explore how this parable invites us to both consider how we use our own resources in the light of other's needs, and the basis on which we judge the actions of others. This might go so far as to highlight how some businesses do or do not express their corporate responsibility, or indeed how some wealthy individuals have used their resources to support and empower others.

The Story of Jeremiah offers itself as a practical application of the call to place our trust in God. He sees beyond the immediate ruin of the land to a day when God's promise of restoration will be fulfilled. It is particularly interesting to note how he uses the commercial practices of his day to display to the world his ultimate faith in God. This offers a potential platform to consider how our faith values are or are not reflected in our individual approach to business practice and in the behaviours of the business world in general. There is also an obvious opportunity to highlight and pray for those who are engaged in legal drafting, property transactions etc.