Items for the week of Sunday, October 25th

This past Sunday, October 25^th, was Reformation Sunday

We heard the following scripture readings, introduction, and prayer of the day during the Sunday morning worship service:

Introduction

Rooted in the past and growing into the future, the church must always be reformed in order to live out the love of Christ in an ever-changing world. We celebrate the good news of God’s grace, that Jesus Christ sets us free every day to do this life-transforming work. Trusting in the freedom given to us in baptism, we pray for the church, that Christians will unite more fully in worship and mission.

Prayer of the Day

Almighty God, gracious Lord, we thank you that your Holy Spirit renews the church in every age. Pour out your Holy Spirit on your faithful people. Keep them steadfast in your word, protect and comfort them in times of trial, defend them against all enemies of the gospel, and bestow on the church your saving peace, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Scripture

Jeremiah 31:31-34 I will write my law in their hearts, says the Lord
Psalm 46 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. (Ps. 46:7)
Romans 3:19-28 Justified by God’s grace as a gift
John 8:31-36 Jesus says, Continue in my word and you will know the truth

The Message

If you would like a transcript of the message, please let the office know.

Devotion for the week from Augsburg Fortress

Sharing God’s Love

Jesus calls us to love God with all our hearts, souls, and minds, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. While we may understand the importance of following this call, a lack of courage might keep us from inviting others to come and see Jesus. We confess this sin of hoarding the good news and pray for God’s Holy Spirit to motivate us for the mission of loving people and sharing the gospel of a life lived within Jesus’ beloved community.

When the apostle Paul described his ministry among the people of Thessalonica, he said he was as gentle with them as a nurse tenderly caring for her own children. He talked about how important it is for followers of Jesus to share not only the gospel but themselves with others.

If we consider children who do not have three meals to eat every day; immigrants who want to find employment; neighbors who are unhoused or who are in hospitals, care facilities, or prisons; and more, clearly there is a great need for us to share God’s good news and to share ourselves, both close to home and further away. We might also notice that many people in need cannot come to us, so sharing God’s love with our neighbors means getting out into the community and even into all parts of the world. As we do this, we will find it is a privilege to give ourselves—our heart, soul, and mind—to God and God’s work.