Sunday, October 02, 2016 Lectionary 27 Introduction

A little faith goes a long way is our Lord’s point in the gospel. A mustard seed’s-worth has miraculous potential. The patience, tenacity, and endurance required for the life of faith are the blessings received in water and the word (holy baptism), bread and wine (Holy Communion), the word read and proclaimed in this assembly. Anticipate them. Receive them with thanksgiving.

First Reading: Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4

Injustice and violence in the time leading up to the Babylonian exile move this prophet to lament: How can a good and all-powerful God see evil in the world and seemingly remain indifferent? God answers by proclaiming that the wicked will perish, but the righteous will live by faith.

Psalm: Psalm 37:1-9

Commit your way to the Lord; put your trust in the Lord. (Ps. 37:5)

Second Reading: 2 Timothy 1:1-14

This message written from Paul to Timothy is a personal message of encouragement. In the face of hardship and persecution, Timothy is reminded that his faith is a gift of God. He is encouraged to exercise that faith with the help of the Holy Spirit.

Gospel: Luke 17:5-10

On the way to Jerusalem, Jesus instructs his followers about the power of faith and the duties of discipleship. He calls his disciples to adopt the attitude of servants whose actions are responses to their identity rather than works seeking reward.