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The Season After Pentecost
Third Sunday after Pentecost: June 13, 2021
As We Gather
Though much is made of the smallness of the mustard seed, the focus of Jesus is on outcome—the plant that becomes large enough to give nest and shade to all the birds of the air. The kingdom of God seems small and even irrelevant in the face of large problems, challenges, and problems of this mortal life, and yet it is the kingdom of God that is great. God gives to us the forgiveness that makes a clear conscience, the life that is stronger than death, and the joy that is greater than every joy this world can deliver. In this way, the small seed makes for a great plant, large enough for us to find refuge and a home in its shade. How the kingdom of God grows may seem part of the mystery, but we know that it is a seed planted in the good soil and fed and nourished by God’s grace to the day when the harvest delivers us into His presence forevermore.
As We Gather
Though much is made of the smallness of the mustard seed, the focus of Jesus is on outcome—the plant that becomes large enough to give nest and shade to all the birds of the air. The kingdom of God seems small and even irrelevant in the face of large problems, challenges, and problems of this mortal life, and yet it is the kingdom of God that is great. God gives to us the forgiveness that makes a clear conscience, the life that is stronger than death, and the joy that is greater than every joy this world can deliver. In this way, the small seed makes for a great plant, large enough for us to find refuge and a home in its shade. How the kingdom of God grows may seem part of the mystery, but we know that it is a seed planted in the good soil and fed and nourished by God’s grace to the day when the harvest delivers us into His presence forevermore.
Second Sunday after Pentecost: June 6, 2021
As We Gather
“Whoever does the will of God, He is My brother and sister and mother,” said Jesus. What is the will of the God? That all people would come to the knowledge of the truth in Christ and be saved by His mercy. Faith is the will of God and family is the fruit of this faith—a people united in Christ’s death and resurrection by Baptism. A house divided cannot stand. We know this to be true in an earthly sense, but it is an eternal truth. We belong to the Lord, not just in part but in whole. God was even willing to own our sins to restore us from Satan and his dominion. What keeps us from this wonderful identity and this future is only this: our refusal of God’s mercy and our rejection of His work to save us. The goal of God in all that He is doing is faith, for by this faith we are made one with Him and are united together as His family, the Church.
As We Gather
“Whoever does the will of God, He is My brother and sister and mother,” said Jesus. What is the will of the God? That all people would come to the knowledge of the truth in Christ and be saved by His mercy. Faith is the will of God and family is the fruit of this faith—a people united in Christ’s death and resurrection by Baptism. A house divided cannot stand. We know this to be true in an earthly sense, but it is an eternal truth. We belong to the Lord, not just in part but in whole. God was even willing to own our sins to restore us from Satan and his dominion. What keeps us from this wonderful identity and this future is only this: our refusal of God’s mercy and our rejection of His work to save us. The goal of God in all that He is doing is faith, for by this faith we are made one with Him and are united together as His family, the Church.
Holy Trinity Sunday: May 30, 2021
As We Gather
On this Holy Trinity Sunday, we do not so much explain God as confess Him. We testify to Him who has revealed Himself to us. To the mind in search of reasonable answers, God will always be a question or riddle to be solved. But to the empty heart, the Holy Spirit leads us to see with faith the God whose majesty has worked for our salvation and whose mercy has rescued us sinners from sin and the grave. Like Nicodemus of old, we want to know how, yet our Lord gives us not the how, but the who; not the explanation, but the mystery of mercy big enough to save us. We come today confessing with our fathers in faith the Athanasian Creed, singing “Holy, Holy, Holy,” and rejoicing in the God who is bigger than we are, but who becomes one of us to save us.
As We Gather
On this Holy Trinity Sunday, we do not so much explain God as confess Him. We testify to Him who has revealed Himself to us. To the mind in search of reasonable answers, God will always be a question or riddle to be solved. But to the empty heart, the Holy Spirit leads us to see with faith the God whose majesty has worked for our salvation and whose mercy has rescued us sinners from sin and the grave. Like Nicodemus of old, we want to know how, yet our Lord gives us not the how, but the who; not the explanation, but the mystery of mercy big enough to save us. We come today confessing with our fathers in faith the Athanasian Creed, singing “Holy, Holy, Holy,” and rejoicing in the God who is bigger than we are, but who becomes one of us to save us.
The Day of Pentecost: May 23, 2021
AS WE GATHER
A familiar sight along highways and roadways in summer is the posting of work-zone signs as repairs are made to streets and bridges during the season of good weather. These signs bring a special level of care and concentration for drivers. For Christian people, the Church is the “work zone” of the Holy Spirit. In his hymn paraphrasing the Apostles’ Creed, Martin Luther writes of the Holy Spirit at work: “Who the Church, His own creation, Keeps in unity of spirit. Here forgiveness and salvation Daily come through Jesus’ merit” (LSB 954:3). As we are called and gathered, we are assured that we are in the most vital of work zones—the one to which we can give our greatest care and concentration.
AS WE GATHER
A familiar sight along highways and roadways in summer is the posting of work-zone signs as repairs are made to streets and bridges during the season of good weather. These signs bring a special level of care and concentration for drivers. For Christian people, the Church is the “work zone” of the Holy Spirit. In his hymn paraphrasing the Apostles’ Creed, Martin Luther writes of the Holy Spirit at work: “Who the Church, His own creation, Keeps in unity of spirit. Here forgiveness and salvation Daily come through Jesus’ merit” (LSB 954:3). As we are called and gathered, we are assured that we are in the most vital of work zones—the one to which we can give our greatest care and concentration.
Easter Season
The Ascension of Our Lord (Observed): May 16, 2021
As We Gather
“I’ll see you soon!” So says the parent, spouse, or friend leaving for an errand or a short trip, with certainty that time together will soon be had again. “I’ll see you soon!” so says Jesus as He departs and ascends into heaven. And though it has not been hours or days or even weeks, rather nearly two thousand years later, we still hold to the certainty of His promise that we shall see Him again soon at His time. Until that day, though, we are wise to not stay looking up into the sky, as the disciples began to do long ago. Rather, we heed His mission to make disciples and keep ourselves prepared for that day. Even as we long to see Him soon, we know that Jesus is enough for us every day, and we take comfort in the fact that our ascended Lord Jesus remains present with us now, in this life, even amid troubles and trials. We hold on to His promises by the faith given, and we anticipate that joyful day when He will come again in the same way He was taken up into heaven.
As We Gather
“I’ll see you soon!” So says the parent, spouse, or friend leaving for an errand or a short trip, with certainty that time together will soon be had again. “I’ll see you soon!” so says Jesus as He departs and ascends into heaven. And though it has not been hours or days or even weeks, rather nearly two thousand years later, we still hold to the certainty of His promise that we shall see Him again soon at His time. Until that day, though, we are wise to not stay looking up into the sky, as the disciples began to do long ago. Rather, we heed His mission to make disciples and keep ourselves prepared for that day. Even as we long to see Him soon, we know that Jesus is enough for us every day, and we take comfort in the fact that our ascended Lord Jesus remains present with us now, in this life, even amid troubles and trials. We hold on to His promises by the faith given, and we anticipate that joyful day when He will come again in the same way He was taken up into heaven.
Sixth Sunday of Easter: May 9, 2021
As We Gather
“In the sight of God” is a phrase used throughout Scripture. It reminds us of God’s unceasing care and concern for His creation. In Proverbs: “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man” (Proverbs 3:3–4). All our life is in God’s amazingly loving sight as He watches over all His creation and especially over people. Out of love for Christ and one another, we can strive to see others around us in the same way that God sees them.
As We Gather
“In the sight of God” is a phrase used throughout Scripture. It reminds us of God’s unceasing care and concern for His creation. In Proverbs: “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart. So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man” (Proverbs 3:3–4). All our life is in God’s amazingly loving sight as He watches over all His creation and especially over people. Out of love for Christ and one another, we can strive to see others around us in the same way that God sees them.
Fifth Sunday of Easter: May 2, 2021
As We Gather
The images Jesus uses as He proclaims the kingdom of God often come from the world of agriculture. His parables are filled with plants and trees and birds and animals. Grapes, grapevines, and vineyards are all used as illustrations by Jesus as He teaches the people who are His first hearers and us also. As people who have been grafted as branches into Christ the Vine through Holy Baptism, we seek ways to strengthen that connection as the Holy Spirit works in and through us. We now nourish our faith as branches in Christ’s vineyard as we grow in Him by Word and Sacrament.
As We Gather
The images Jesus uses as He proclaims the kingdom of God often come from the world of agriculture. His parables are filled with plants and trees and birds and animals. Grapes, grapevines, and vineyards are all used as illustrations by Jesus as He teaches the people who are His first hearers and us also. As people who have been grafted as branches into Christ the Vine through Holy Baptism, we seek ways to strengthen that connection as the Holy Spirit works in and through us. We now nourish our faith as branches in Christ’s vineyard as we grow in Him by Word and Sacrament.
Fourth Sunday of Easter: April 25, 2021
As We Gather
Of all the animals that could have been used to portray humanity, does it feel strange to be called a sheep? After all, it is not the most honorable creature. There are no defense mechanisms to escape a predator, no intimidating roar, and limited ability to fend for one’s self when it comes to seeking nourishment, water, and safety. Yet these things reveal the point we are called to understand. It may not be good to be a sheep on our own, but it is great to be a sheep with a Good Shepherd to care for the flock. Jesus is our perfect shepherd who protects and defends, feeds and nourishes, leads and provides all we need in this body and life. Together as His flock, we are blessed to follow Him as by His Word and Means of Grace. He leads us to streams of living water and paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
As We Gather
Of all the animals that could have been used to portray humanity, does it feel strange to be called a sheep? After all, it is not the most honorable creature. There are no defense mechanisms to escape a predator, no intimidating roar, and limited ability to fend for one’s self when it comes to seeking nourishment, water, and safety. Yet these things reveal the point we are called to understand. It may not be good to be a sheep on our own, but it is great to be a sheep with a Good Shepherd to care for the flock. Jesus is our perfect shepherd who protects and defends, feeds and nourishes, leads and provides all we need in this body and life. Together as His flock, we are blessed to follow Him as by His Word and Means of Grace. He leads us to streams of living water and paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Third Sunday of Easter: April 18, 2021
AS WE GATHER
“Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?” (Luke 24:38). These are questions our risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ asked of His disciples in another resurrection appearance after that first Easter morning. They are questions that could also be asked of us numerous times in our daily lives as we face trouble and doubts. Yet as Jesus kept on appearing, He kept on showing them Himself, and more than that, He continued to teach and remind them that all that was written was fulfilled in and through Him. Though we cannot physically touch His hands and side, each time we gather, Jesus continues to speak to us, affirming His work, the Word fulfilled, and the worth of humanity for whom He came. Amid troubles and doubts, through Christ, we can “see what kind of love the Father has given to us” (1 John 3:1).
AS WE GATHER
“Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?” (Luke 24:38). These are questions our risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ asked of His disciples in another resurrection appearance after that first Easter morning. They are questions that could also be asked of us numerous times in our daily lives as we face trouble and doubts. Yet as Jesus kept on appearing, He kept on showing them Himself, and more than that, He continued to teach and remind them that all that was written was fulfilled in and through Him. Though we cannot physically touch His hands and side, each time we gather, Jesus continues to speak to us, affirming His work, the Word fulfilled, and the worth of humanity for whom He came. Amid troubles and doubts, through Christ, we can “see what kind of love the Father has given to us” (1 John 3:1).
Second Sunday of Easter: April 11, 2021
As We Gather
We tend to look for things to make faith easier. Signs, wonders, or just little hints here and there would help. But the disciples had all these things and heard Jesus promise His resurrection, and still they gathered behind the locked doors of their fears. What we do have is Christ, His Word that bestows and sustains our faith, and His Holy Sacrament wherein He feeds us with His body and blood. Though we have not seen with our eyes, we see with faith and join with doubting Thomas to confess, “My Lord and my God!”
As We Gather
We tend to look for things to make faith easier. Signs, wonders, or just little hints here and there would help. But the disciples had all these things and heard Jesus promise His resurrection, and still they gathered behind the locked doors of their fears. What we do have is Christ, His Word that bestows and sustains our faith, and His Holy Sacrament wherein He feeds us with His body and blood. Though we have not seen with our eyes, we see with faith and join with doubting Thomas to confess, “My Lord and my God!”
Easter Sunday: April 4, 2021
As We Gather
Though Christmas may be our favorite, Paul reminds us that Easter is of “first importance.” If Christ had not arisen, our hope would be still locked in the tomb. Because He is risen, just as He said, we have hope of our own resurrection from the dead and look forward to the life everlasting, which death cannot touch. We come here today not simply to remember an event but to rejoice in the future made possible for us because of what happened. Before the world we confess that Jesus’ resurrection is not a hope but a fact witnessed by more than five hundred and on that fact God has built a future for us—one we anticipate now even as we wait to see it fulfilled.
As We Gather
Though Christmas may be our favorite, Paul reminds us that Easter is of “first importance.” If Christ had not arisen, our hope would be still locked in the tomb. Because He is risen, just as He said, we have hope of our own resurrection from the dead and look forward to the life everlasting, which death cannot touch. We come here today not simply to remember an event but to rejoice in the future made possible for us because of what happened. Before the world we confess that Jesus’ resurrection is not a hope but a fact witnessed by more than five hundred and on that fact God has built a future for us—one we anticipate now even as we wait to see it fulfilled.
Lenten Season
Maundy Thursday: April 1, 2021
As We Gather
The quarantine (literally, forty days) of Lent, a time of repentance, began on Ash Wednesday with an extended prayer and confession of sins, and with this reminder: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” The forty days (not including Sundays, which are considered “little Easters”) come to their conclusion now in the three holy days, or Triduum, of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Therefore these days center around the only sacrifice that gives us absolution, the forgiveness we so desire: the body and blood of the Lord’s Supper that proclaim the glorious substitutionary suffering and death of our Lord on the cross and interment in the tomb. Only in this way can a person know and believe what there is to be so happy about on Easter Sunday!
As We Gather
The quarantine (literally, forty days) of Lent, a time of repentance, began on Ash Wednesday with an extended prayer and confession of sins, and with this reminder: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” The forty days (not including Sundays, which are considered “little Easters”) come to their conclusion now in the three holy days, or Triduum, of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Therefore these days center around the only sacrifice that gives us absolution, the forgiveness we so desire: the body and blood of the Lord’s Supper that proclaim the glorious substitutionary suffering and death of our Lord on the cross and interment in the tomb. Only in this way can a person know and believe what there is to be so happy about on Easter Sunday!
Palm Sunday: March 28, 2021
As We Gather
Sunday, “the eighth day of the week,” is celebrated by Christians as the first day of the eternal life into which they were baptized. Today, the beginning of the great and Holy Week of Lent, we begin with the note of great joy as the crowds receive Jesus entering Jerusalem. This will be the last time He comes to the holy city. For we then follow Him to the judgment hall, the cross of suffering, and the fearful tomb of death. The penitential season of Lent concludes with the three holy days, the Triduum of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Let us follow our Lord and allow Him to take our sins upon Himself that we may receive His new life in the forgiveness of our sins and the joy of the resurrection.
As We Gather
Sunday, “the eighth day of the week,” is celebrated by Christians as the first day of the eternal life into which they were baptized. Today, the beginning of the great and Holy Week of Lent, we begin with the note of great joy as the crowds receive Jesus entering Jerusalem. This will be the last time He comes to the holy city. For we then follow Him to the judgment hall, the cross of suffering, and the fearful tomb of death. The penitential season of Lent concludes with the three holy days, the Triduum of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. Let us follow our Lord and allow Him to take our sins upon Himself that we may receive His new life in the forgiveness of our sins and the joy of the resurrection.
Fifth Sunday in Lent: March 21, 2021
As We Gather
The ancient name for today, the Fifth Sunday in Lent, is Judica, the Latin behind “vindicate.” Jesus predicted was about to happen – this vindication – and more... Yet despite all the miracles they see, the disciples repeatedly fail to grasp and trust his promises. When we are tempted to think, “My faith would be stronger if I’d been there,” Mark reminds us that seeing is not believing. We ourselves often do not see Jesus as we should. Instead, through rich language and masterful narration, Mark directs our eyes toward the cross where, with the eyes of faith, we will truly see the Son of God in his glory.
As We Gather
The ancient name for today, the Fifth Sunday in Lent, is Judica, the Latin behind “vindicate.” Jesus predicted was about to happen – this vindication – and more... Yet despite all the miracles they see, the disciples repeatedly fail to grasp and trust his promises. When we are tempted to think, “My faith would be stronger if I’d been there,” Mark reminds us that seeing is not believing. We ourselves often do not see Jesus as we should. Instead, through rich language and masterful narration, Mark directs our eyes toward the cross where, with the eyes of faith, we will truly see the Son of God in his glory.
Fourth Sunday in Lent: March 14, 2021
As We Gather
Few are as popular in America as is Jesus. Polls and books may show that people don’t like the church, but they do like Jesus. In fact, any religion that comes to America has to find a way to account for Jesus and treat him positively in order to survive in America. And in recent years several books have come out highlighting that very fact. One by Steven Prothero is entitled American Jesus: How the Son of God Became a National Icon. The other by Richard Fox, is entitled, Jesus in America: Personal Savior, Cultural Hero, National Obsession. So, from movies like Last Temptation of Christ down through Jesus Christ Superstar, to Godspell, to Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, Jesus has been an object of fascination for Americans. But which Jesus? Jesus is the center of the gracious Good News. We are God’s workmanship, and now He holds the door open as we walk through, looking up to Jesus, just as the Israelites looked to the pole with the bronze serpent…
As We Gather
Few are as popular in America as is Jesus. Polls and books may show that people don’t like the church, but they do like Jesus. In fact, any religion that comes to America has to find a way to account for Jesus and treat him positively in order to survive in America. And in recent years several books have come out highlighting that very fact. One by Steven Prothero is entitled American Jesus: How the Son of God Became a National Icon. The other by Richard Fox, is entitled, Jesus in America: Personal Savior, Cultural Hero, National Obsession. So, from movies like Last Temptation of Christ down through Jesus Christ Superstar, to Godspell, to Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, Jesus has been an object of fascination for Americans. But which Jesus? Jesus is the center of the gracious Good News. We are God’s workmanship, and now He holds the door open as we walk through, looking up to Jesus, just as the Israelites looked to the pole with the bronze serpent…
Third Sunday in Lent: March 7, 2021
AS WE GATHER
The Church has what the world doesn’t want: God’s Law, which always accuses us sinners, and His Gospel, which allows for no boasting on our part. To this day, Jewish leaders teach that God will not demand what we cannot achieve. What a stumbling block, preaching a Messiah who becomes a sacrifice for our failings, both in our actions and our very nature. The polytheistic society of Paul’s day and the secular one of ours both find the Law an encumbrance, preferring to judge by their own standards (or lack of them). What folly, our society believes, to preach a God who chooses people whom everyone knows to be weak. Today is a day for foolish preaching: Christ crucified, the power and wisdom of God.
AS WE GATHER
The Church has what the world doesn’t want: God’s Law, which always accuses us sinners, and His Gospel, which allows for no boasting on our part. To this day, Jewish leaders teach that God will not demand what we cannot achieve. What a stumbling block, preaching a Messiah who becomes a sacrifice for our failings, both in our actions and our very nature. The polytheistic society of Paul’s day and the secular one of ours both find the Law an encumbrance, preferring to judge by their own standards (or lack of them). What folly, our society believes, to preach a God who chooses people whom everyone knows to be weak. Today is a day for foolish preaching: Christ crucified, the power and wisdom of God.
Second Sunday in Lent: February 28, 2021
As We Gather
The old Latin name for this, the Second Sunday in Lent, is Reminiscere, because the Introit pleads, “Remember Your mercy, O Lord.” Confidently, it continues by encouraging us to trust Him because “He has remembered us; He will bless us.” Indeed, God’s promises to Abram in today’s Old Testament Reading were kept as Jesus moved unswervingly toward the cross, as He does in today’s Gospel. As a result, we can be sure, Paul reminds us in the Epistle, that we have peace with God. Even in suffering, we know that hope will not disappoint us, for we remember that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
As We Gather
The old Latin name for this, the Second Sunday in Lent, is Reminiscere, because the Introit pleads, “Remember Your mercy, O Lord.” Confidently, it continues by encouraging us to trust Him because “He has remembered us; He will bless us.” Indeed, God’s promises to Abram in today’s Old Testament Reading were kept as Jesus moved unswervingly toward the cross, as He does in today’s Gospel. As a result, we can be sure, Paul reminds us in the Epistle, that we have peace with God. Even in suffering, we know that hope will not disappoint us, for we remember that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
First Sunday in Lent: February 21, 2021
AS WE GATHER
As the disciples follow Jesus from the upper room to the Mount of Olives, he has a hard word for them, and they find themselves unable to accept it. It is a hard word also for us to accept, but it is ultimately a powerfully saving and transforming word. The Things That Matter Are NOT About You!
AS WE GATHER
As the disciples follow Jesus from the upper room to the Mount of Olives, he has a hard word for them, and they find themselves unable to accept it. It is a hard word also for us to accept, but it is ultimately a powerfully saving and transforming word. The Things That Matter Are NOT About You!
Ash Wednesday: February 17, 2021
As We Gather
As we begin this Lenten season, we once again hear that call to return to the Lord, our God. God says, “Return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments” (Joel 2:12–13). Once again, we return from our wandering to our gracious and merciful God who has paved the way for us to be reconciled to Him through His Son, Jesus. “For our sake He made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:20). Because of Jesus, our heavenly Father rewards us with the gifts of forgiveness, life, and salvation. We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live lives of righteous service in His name.
As We Gather
As we begin this Lenten season, we once again hear that call to return to the Lord, our God. God says, “Return to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments” (Joel 2:12–13). Once again, we return from our wandering to our gracious and merciful God who has paved the way for us to be reconciled to Him through His Son, Jesus. “For our sake He made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:20). Because of Jesus, our heavenly Father rewards us with the gifts of forgiveness, life, and salvation. We are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live lives of righteous service in His name.
The Transfiguration of Our Lord: February 14, 2021
As We Gather
There is nothing quite like being an eyewitness, giving a special perspective to share on the event. Peter writes about being on the Mount of Transfiguration as he, James, and John were privileged to have a special vision of the Lord Jesus Christ. He states: “We were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to Him by the Majestic Glory, ‘This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,’ we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with Him on the holy mountain” (2 Peter 1:16b–18). Today, through the words of Scripture, we, too, become eyewitnesses and are given a glimpse of glory in the vision of our transfigured Lord!
As We Gather
There is nothing quite like being an eyewitness, giving a special perspective to share on the event. Peter writes about being on the Mount of Transfiguration as he, James, and John were privileged to have a special vision of the Lord Jesus Christ. He states: “We were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For when He received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to Him by the Majestic Glory, ‘This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,’ we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with Him on the holy mountain” (2 Peter 1:16b–18). Today, through the words of Scripture, we, too, become eyewitnesses and are given a glimpse of glory in the vision of our transfigured Lord!
Epiphany Season
Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany: February 7, 2021
As We Gather
The Lord alone “is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth” (Is. 40:28). He “sits above the circle of the earth” and “stretches out the heavens like a curtain” (Is. 40:22). Yet, His almighty power is demonstrated chiefly by His mercy and compassion. “He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength” (Is. 40:29). The only begotten Son of the Father, the very Word by whom all things were made, becomes flesh and takes all the poverty and weakness of our sin and death upon Himself, bearing it in His body to the cross. As He dies for us there, He also raises us up, a new creation, in His resurrection from the dead.
As We Gather
The Lord alone “is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth” (Is. 40:28). He “sits above the circle of the earth” and “stretches out the heavens like a curtain” (Is. 40:22). Yet, His almighty power is demonstrated chiefly by His mercy and compassion. “He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength” (Is. 40:29). The only begotten Son of the Father, the very Word by whom all things were made, becomes flesh and takes all the poverty and weakness of our sin and death upon Himself, bearing it in His body to the cross. As He dies for us there, He also raises us up, a new creation, in His resurrection from the dead.
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany: January 31, 2021
As We Gather
In today’s Gospel from Mark 1, we are reminded of Jesus’ divine authority in His teaching to the people and also in His power over evil spirits. This power and authority was foretold by prophets such as Moses, pointing to the One who would fulfill all things as the long-awaited perfect prophet and Savior. In that power and authority, Christ has won our victory through His death and rising, and we are blessed with freedom in that faith to be used to His glory in service to others.
As We Gather
In today’s Gospel from Mark 1, we are reminded of Jesus’ divine authority in His teaching to the people and also in His power over evil spirits. This power and authority was foretold by prophets such as Moses, pointing to the One who would fulfill all things as the long-awaited perfect prophet and Savior. In that power and authority, Christ has won our victory through His death and rising, and we are blessed with freedom in that faith to be used to His glory in service to others.
Third Sunday after the Epiphany: January 24, 2021
As We Gather
Jonah was a reluctant follower. He went to Nineveh begrudgingly, but through him God would issue a call for the Ninevites to repentance. Jesus would call Simon, Andrew, James, and John to follow Him, and promised that through them, God would issue a call of repentance to many. In Baptism, God has called us to follow Him in a life of faith and repentance, and He promises that through us, others will also be called to that same repentance and new life.
As We Gather
Jonah was a reluctant follower. He went to Nineveh begrudgingly, but through him God would issue a call for the Ninevites to repentance. Jesus would call Simon, Andrew, James, and John to follow Him, and promised that through them, God would issue a call of repentance to many. In Baptism, God has called us to follow Him in a life of faith and repentance, and He promises that through us, others will also be called to that same repentance and new life.
Second Sunday after Epiphany: January 17, 2021
As We Gather
Today we consider the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives. How we live and interact with others is important, for we are representing the Holy Spirit. How we act when we are alone is important, for the Spirit is always present with us, and He has no desire to take part in sin of any kind. As we reflect, we remember the glorious news that we were bought with a price—the blood of Jesus, which forgives all our sins and removes all our shame. For that we are most thankful!
As We Gather
Today we consider the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives. How we live and interact with others is important, for we are representing the Holy Spirit. How we act when we are alone is important, for the Spirit is always present with us, and He has no desire to take part in sin of any kind. As we reflect, we remember the glorious news that we were bought with a price—the blood of Jesus, which forgives all our sins and removes all our shame. For that we are most thankful!
The Epiphany of Our Lord (Observed): January 10, 2021
As We Gather
We consider the mysteries highlighted by the Readings for the Feast of the Epiphany. The Wise Men, or Magi, mysteriously show up in Jerusalem, and these strangers are looking for the King of the Jews. The King of the Jews is mysteriously an infant, born to a humble family in Bethlehem, not in Jerusalem. And this King of the Jews mysteriously invites all people from all nations into His kingdom. These mysteries, hidden for the ages, is revealed in Jesus, the Light of the world.
As We Gather
We consider the mysteries highlighted by the Readings for the Feast of the Epiphany. The Wise Men, or Magi, mysteriously show up in Jerusalem, and these strangers are looking for the King of the Jews. The King of the Jews is mysteriously an infant, born to a humble family in Bethlehem, not in Jerusalem. And this King of the Jews mysteriously invites all people from all nations into His kingdom. These mysteries, hidden for the ages, is revealed in Jesus, the Light of the world.
Christmas Season
Advent 2020 Click below to View/Download Sunday's Worship Bulletin
