Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church - Olive Branch, MS: Recent Episodes
beautifulsaviorlc
Color: Green
Old Testament: 1 Kings 19:11–21
Psalm: Psalm 16; antiphon: v. 11
Epistle: 1 Peter 3:8–15
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:18–25
Gospel: Luke 5:1–11
Introit: Psalm 27:1a, 11–12, 14; antiphon: vv. 7, 9b
Gradual: Psalm 84:9, 8
Verse: Psalm 21:1
Jesus Makes Fishers of Men
The Lord called fishermen to be fishers of men (Luke 5:1–11). The net they would use is the message of the cross, which is foolishness and a stumbling block to the world (1 Cor. 1:18–25). The power of God to save is not in spectacular signs like wind and fire and earthquakes (1 Kings 19:11–21), nor is it to be found in human intelligence and wisdom. The power of God to save comes in the still, small voice of the preaching of Christ crucified. In worldly darkness the disciples could catch nothing. But in the light of Christ, whose Word was attached to the water, the boats were filled with fish. So it is that in Baptism you have been drawn in to the ship of the Church. Though the nets are breaking and some who hear the Word do not believe, pastors continue to cast the net of the Gospel and the Sacraments, that Christians may abide in the boat of the Church and that we may be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:8–15).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 50:15–21
Psalm: Psalm 138; antiphon: v. 8b
Epistle: Romans 8:18–23
Epistle: Romans 12:14–21
Gospel: Luke 6:36–42
Introit: Psalm 27:3–4a, 5; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Gradual: Psalm 79:9–10a
Verse: Psalm 9:4b, 9
Christ’s Mercy Is Ours to Show to Others
“Be merciful, even as your Father also is merciful” (Luke 6:36–42). The old Adam in us wants to condemn and seek vengeance. But the Lord says, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay” (Rom. 12:14–21). To condemn, to avenge yourself, is to put yourself in the place of God. It is to fail to trust that He is just. Ultimately, it is to disbelieve that Jesus suffered the full vengeance for all wrongs. Only Christ is merciful as the Father is merciful. He is the one who overcame all evil with the good of His cross, forgiving even His executioners. Jesus is our Joseph, who comforts us with words of pardon and reconciliation (Gen. 50:15–21). He is the One who does not condemn but gives life that runs over. Only through faith in Christ are we sons of the Father—being merciful, forgiving, doing good to our enemies. For in Christ we know that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Rom. 8:8–13).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Final Class - Class Notes at https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?usp=drive_link
Color: Green
Old Testament: Micah 7:18–20
Psalm: Psalm 103:1–13; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: 1 Timothy 1:12–17
Epistle: 1 Peter 5:6–11
Gospel: Luke 15:1–10
Gospel: Luke 15:11–32
Introit: Psalm 25:1–2a, 5b, 15, 20; antiphon: vv. 16, 18
Gradual: Psalm 55:22a, 16, 18a
Verse: Psalm 18:1–2a
Jesus Receives Sinners
“This man receives sinners and eats with them” (Luke 15:2). The Pharisees’ statement of judgment against Jesus is in fact a proclamation of Gospel truth. For our God is one who delights in mercy, who casts all our sins into the depths of the sea through the cross (Micah 7:18–20). “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Tim. 1:15). Those who refuse to be counted as sinners also refuse Jesus who came only for sinners. Those like the older son (Luke 15:11–32), who think they are righteous of themselves, will not join in the heavenly celebration over the sinner who repents and so remain outside of the Father’s house. Let us therefore be on guard against self–righteously trusting in our own merits. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you” (1 Peter 5:6). Rejoice that Jesus receives sinners like us and that He still sits at table with us in the Holy Supper, bestowing His forgiveness and life.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Proverbs 9:1–10
Psalm: Psalm 34:12–22; antiphon: v. 11
Epistle: Ephesians 2:13–22
Epistle: 1 John 3:13–18
Gospel: Luke 14:15–24
Introit: Psalm 18:1–2a, 27, 30a, 49; antiphon: vv. 18b–19
Gradual: Psalm 120:1–2
Verse: Psalm 7:17
The Gospel Call Goes Out to All
Wisdom has issued an invitation to the divine feast: “Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight” (Prov. 9:5–6). This is the call of the Spirit of Christ to believe the Gospel and to receive His saving gifts in the Holy Supper. Many make excuses and reject this invitation, even as the Jews did in the days of Jesus, yet the Master’s house will be filled. The Gospel call therefore goes out to the lowly and despised, into the highways, even to all the Gentiles (Luke 14:15–24). For “you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Eph. 2:13–22). In Christ, believing Jews and Gentiles are no longer strangers but fellow members of the household of God. The enmity of class and race is put to death through the cross. Having been reconciled in the one Body of Christ, we are enabled to love one another (1 John 3:13–18) as we await the marriage feast of the Lamb in His kingdom which will have no end.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?usp=drive_link
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 15:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 33:12–22; antiphon: v. 20
Epistle: 1 John 4:16–21
Gospel: Luke 16:19–31
Introit: Psalm 13:1–4; antiphon: vv. 5–6
Gradual: Psalm 41:4, 1
Verse: Psalm 7:1
Faith Trusts in Christ for Life Eternal
When the beggar Lazarus died, he was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. For he was truly Abraham’s seed. Like Abraham, he believed in the Lord, and the Lord “counted it to him as righteousness” (Gen. 15:6). The name Lazarus means “God is my help.” The unnamed rich man, on the other hand, did not love and trust in God. For he evidently cared little for the beggar at his gate. And “he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen” (1 John 4:20). He who loved and trusted in possessions and prestige died and was in torments in Hades (Luke 16:19–31). Repentance and faith are worked only through Moses and the prophets—that is, the Word of God, for it points us to Christ. Only through His death and resurrection are we brought the comfort of life everlasting.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?usp=drive_link
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 6:1–7
Psalm: Psalm 29; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: Romans 11:33–36
Gospel: John 3:1–17
Gospel: John 3:1–15
Introit: Psalm 8:1–2a, 3–5; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Liturgical Text
Verse: Liturgical Text
The Holy Trinity Reveals Himself to Sinners
When Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he cried out “Woe is me!” For the sinner cannot stand in the presence of a holy God and live (Is. 6:1–7). But God the Father lifted up His Son Jesus for us on the cross, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. This eternal life of Christ is given us according to the Holy Spirit’s good pleasure in Baptism. “Unless one is born [again] of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). To sinners in fear of death, the messengers of God place on our lips the living body and blood of Christ and speak His words of absolution, “Your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for” (Is. 6:7). Having received forgiveness and life from the Father through the Son by the Holy Spirit, we join with the angels in praising the blessed Trinity, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts!” (Is. 6:3). “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen” (Rom. 11:33–36).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Red
Old Testament: Genesis 11:1–9
Psalm: Psalm 143; antiphon: v. 11
Second Reading: Acts 2:1–21
Gospel: John 14:23–31
Introit: Psalm 68:1, 4a, c, 11a, 33b, 35a; antiphon: Liturgical Text; Psalm 68:3
Verse: Psalm 104:30; Liturgical Text
The Holy Spirit Gives Peace
Following the flood, Noah’s descendants failed to spread out and fill the earth as God had spoken. Rather, they exalted themselves; with “one language and the same words” (Gen. 11:1) they spoke proudly and arrogantly. The Lord humbled them by confusing “the language of all the earth,” dividing and dispersing the people (Gen. 11:9). That dispersal was reversed on Pentecost Day (the fiftieth day of Easter), when God caused the one Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to be preached in a multitude of languages. “At this sound the multitude came together” (Acts 2:6), for the preaching of Christ is the primary work of the Holy Spirit, whereby He gathers people from all nations into one Church. The Holy Spirit teaches and brings to our remembrance the words of Jesus, which are the words of the Father who sent Him. These words bestow forgiveness and peace to those who keep and hold on to them in love for Jesus. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
(Part 2 of Class)
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?usp=drive_link
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?usp=drive_link
Color: White
Old Testament: 2 Kings 2:5–15
Psalm: Psalm 110; antiphon: v. 1
Second Reading: Acts 1:1–11
Gospel: Mark 16:14–20
Gospel: Luke 24:44–53
Introit: Psalm 47:1–2, 5, 8; antiphon: Acts 1:11
Verse: Psalm 47:5; 68:18a
Jesus Is Ascended, but Not Absent
On the fortieth day after His resurrection, our Lord ascended to the right hand of the Father. But although Jesus is hidden from your eyes, He is not absent from you. For He now fills all things in heaven and on earth. He continues “to do and to teach” (Acts 1:1), preaching repentance and forgiveness of sins through those sent in His name (Mark 16:14–20; Luke 24:44–53), giving you His true body and blood in the Supper. Jesus is your great Elijah who pours out on you a double portion of His Spirit in the Word and the Sacraments (2 Kings 2:5–15). He is Lord over all things for the sake of the Church. He whom heaven cannot contain has raised your human nature to share fully in the glory of God. You who believe and are baptized into Christ’s body are already sitting in the heavenly places; for you are in Him who is at the Father’s right hand. When He comes again in the clouds on the Last Day, you also will appear with Him in glory.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?usp=drive_link
Color: White
Old Testament: Numbers 21:4–9
Psalm: Psalm 107:1–9; antiphon: v. 19
Epistle: 1 Timothy 2:1–6
Epistle: James 1:22–27
Gospel: John 16:23–33
Gospel: John 16:23–30
Introit: Psalm 66:1–2a, 17, 19–20; antiphon: Isaiah 48:20b
Verse: Liturgical Text; John 16:28
The Father Answers Our Prayers Because of Jesus
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you” (John 16:23). To pray in Jesus’ name is to pray as one who has been baptized. For it is in the water that He put His name upon you, claiming you as His own, making you a son of God with access to the Father. By His incarnation and crucifixion, our Lord Jesus broke through the barrier of sin which separated us from God, opening a portal to the Father. To pray in Jesus’ name is to pray with faith in Him as the one Mediator between God and men, who gave Himself a ransom for all (1 Tim. 2:1–6). Like Moses in the wilderness, Jesus is our go-between and intercessor before the throne of heaven. He was lifted up for us on the cross that we might be saved and restored to fellowship with the Father (Num. 21:4–9). Looking into this perfect teaching of liberty (James 1:22–27) we pray with boldness and confidence as dear children of God.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Biblical Cosmology Cont. Class notes - https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?usp=drive_link
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 12:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 66:1–8; antiphon: v. 5
Epistle: James 1:16–21
Gospel: John 16:5–15
Introit: Psalm 98:1b, 3–4; antiphon: vv. 1a, 2b
Verse: Psalm 118:16; Romans 6:9
Jesus Promises to Send His Holy Spirit, the Helper
Though Jesus has departed from us visibly to the right hand of the Father who sent Him, yet this is to our advantage. For Jesus—who is Lord over all creation, who intercedes for us before the Father, who is preparing a place for us in heaven—has sent the Helper, the Spirit of Truth (John 16:5–15). “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights” through Jesus Christ (James 1:17). The Holy Spirit helps us by taking what is Christ’s and declaring it to us. In the Word of truth, the Spirit works repentance and delivers to us the forgiveness of sins, the righteousness of Christ, and victory over the devil. For the ruler of this world is judged and defeated by the cross. Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, we have been brought forth to new life in Him who is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. Confident of our resurrection with Christ we confess, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid” (Is. 12:2).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?usp=sharing
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 40:25–31
Old Testament: Lamentations 3:22–33
Psalm: Psalm 147:1–11; antiphon: v. 5
Epistle: 1 John 3:1–3
Epistle: 1 Peter 2:11–20
Gospel: John 16:16–22
Introit: Psalm 66:3, 5, 8–9; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Verse: Psalm 111:9a; Luke 24:26
Those Who Wait on the Lord Shall Rejoice
The people of God are pilgrims and sojourners in this world, looking ahead to a destination yet to come (1 Peter 2:11–20). Though we are now children of God, the fullness of what we shall be has not yet been revealed (1 John 3:1–3). We are those who wait on the Lord. “The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him” (Lam. 3:25). Jesus tells us that the wait is just a little while. “A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me” (John 16:16). Though you must experience sorrow for a time, though you must live as strangers in a world that is at enmity with Christ, yet your sorrow will be turned to joy when He returns. “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength” (Is. 40:31). The little while of weeping shall be replaced with an eternity of rejoicing in the presence of Christ the crucified and risen Savior. “And no one will take your joy from you” (John 16:22).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Biblical Cosmology Cont. Class notes at https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?usp=sharing
Color: White
Old Testament: Ezekiel 34:11–16
Psalm: Psalm 23; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 Peter 2:21–25
Gospel: John 10:11–16
Introit: Psalm 33:1, 18–20; antiphon: vv. 5b, 6a
Verse: Luke 24:35b; John 10:14
The Good Shepherd Cares for His Sheep
Our Lord Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11–16). He is not like the hireling, who cares nothing for the sheep and only for himself, who flees when he sees the wolf coming. Rather, Jesus is the Good Shepherd who seeks out His scattered sheep to deliver them (Ezek. 34:11–16). He gathers them and feeds them in rich pasture. He binds up the broken and strengthens the sick. He lays down His life for wandering and wayward sheep. On the cross, Christ bore in His body the attacks of the predators of sin and death and the devil for you that you might be saved. He now lives to restore your soul in the still waters of baptism, to lead you in the paths of righteousness by the voice of His Gospel, to prepare the table of His holy supper before you, that you may dwell in the house of the Lord forever (Psalm 23). “For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls” (1 Peter 2:25).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Ezekiel 37:1–14
Psalm: Psalm 33; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 John 5:4–10
Gospel: John 20:19–31
Introit: Psalm 81:1, 7a, 10, 16b; antiphon: 1 Peter 2:2a
Verse: Matthew 28:7b; John 20:26a, c
The Wounds of Christ Give Us Life
“For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood” (1 John 5:7). These three point to Christ and flow from Christ. Jesus shows His disciples His hands side, from which blood and water flowed, saying “Peace be with you.” He presents the wounds which turn our fear to gladness and which restore us to the Father. Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:23). His breath, His words are Spirit and life. They raise up our dry, dead bones and give us new and everlasting life (Ezek. 37:1–14). Christ now gives His ministers to speak His forgiving, Spirit-filled words to the penitent in His stead. Our Lord continues to come to His people, presenting His wounds to us in the Sacraments of water and blood. He bids us to touch His side at His table, to receive His risen body and blood in true faith, that believing we may have life in His name.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Job 19:23–27
Psalm: Psalm 118:15–29; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:51–57
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 5:6–8
Gospel: Mark 16:1–8
Introit: Psalm 8:1, 5–6, 9; antiphon: Luke 24:5b–6b
Gradual: Psalm 118:24, 1
Verse: 1 Corinthians 5:7b–8a, c
Christ’s Resurrection Means That We Will One Day Be Raised
“Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Cor. 5:7). By the shed blood of Christ, the Lamb of God, eternal death has passed over us. Now we pass with Christ through death into life everlasting. For Christ the crucified One is risen! The stone has been rolled away from the tomb, revealing that the tomb could not hold Him (Mark 16:1–8). Now our Redeemer lives eternally to save us from sin and Satan and the grave, and we can live in the sure hope of our own bodily resurrection with Christ. “After my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God” (Job 19:26). Feasting on the living Christ, who is our meat and drink indeed, we boldly say: “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? . . . But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:54–55, 57).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Exodus 14:10—15:1
Old Testament: Isaiah 25:6–9
Psalm: Psalm 16; antiphon: v. 11
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:12–25
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:1–11
Gospel: John 20:1–18
Introit: Psalm 139:1–2a, 8, 10; antiphon: vv. 18b, 5b, 6
Gradual: Psalm 118:24, 1
Verse: 1 Corinthians 5:7b–8a, c
Christ’s Resurrection Brings Us Life
“In Adam all die.” For we are all participants in the sin of Adam, who rebelled against God in the garden and brought the curse of death into the world. But “in Christ shall all be made alive” (1 Cor. 15:22)). For He was faithful to His Father and destroyed death on the holy tree. Jesus, the Second Adam, now walks in the garden in the cool of the day and reveals Himself to the daughter of Eve (John 20:1–18). The risen Christ brings not the curse of death but the blessing of life, the resurrection of the body. He leads us through the baptismal sea to new life on the other side, conquering our mortal enemies in its depths (Ex. 14:10—15:1). In this way our Lord Jesus wipes away the tears from all faces. For He has swallowed up death forever. Let us therefore be glad and rejoice in His salvation (Is. 25:6–9)!
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Black
Old Testament: Isaiah 52:13—53:12
Psalm: Psalm 22; antiphon: v. 1
Psalm: Psalm 31; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:14–21
Gospel: John 18:1—19:42
Introit: Psalm 102:1–2, 12; antiphon: Isaiah 53:4a, 5a, 6a, c
Gradual: Isaiah 53:1, 11b
Tract: Psalm 140:1–7, 12–13
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the world. “Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and carries our sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement, so that “with His stripes we are healed” (Is. 53:4–5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). For in Christ, “God was reconciling the whole world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them” (2 Cor. 5:19).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Black
Old Testament: Isaiah 52:13—53:12
Psalm: Psalm 22; antiphon: v. 1
Psalm: Psalm 31; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:14–21
Gospel: John 18:1—19:42
Introit: Psalm 102:1–2, 12; antiphon: Isaiah 53:4a, 5a, 6a, c
Gradual: Isaiah 53:1, 11b
Tract: Psalm 140:1–7, 12–13
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the world. “Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and carries our sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement, so that “with His stripes we are healed” (Is. 53:4–5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). For in Christ, “God was reconciling the whole world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them” (2 Cor. 5:19).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Exodus 12:1–14
Old Testament: Exodus 24:3–11
Psalm: Psalm 116:12–19; antiphon: v. 17
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 11:23–32
Gospel: John 13:1–15
Gospel: John 13:1–15, 34–35
Introit: Psalm 67:1–3, 6b–7; antiphon: Galatians 6:14b; Liturgical Text
Gradual: Psalm 111:4–5
Tract: Psalm 111:4–5; John 6:55–56
Let Us Love One Another, as Christ Jesus Has Loved Us
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes” (1 Cor. 11:26). By eating His body and drinking His blood, we proclaim to all the world that Jesus is, indeed, our Passover Lamb (Ex. 12:1–14), who was sacrificed for us on Calvary. In Christ, the Lord remembers us in mercy and remembers our sin no more; He forgives us all our iniquity. With such love, he “loved His own who were in the world,” and even loves us “to the end” (John 13:1). As He washes us and feeds us in love, let us love one another, just as He has loved us (John 13:34).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Purple
Old Testament: Genesis 22:1–14
Psalm: Psalm 43; antiphon: v. 5
Epistle: Hebrews 9:11–15
Gospel: John 8:42–59
Gospel: John 8:46–59
Introit: Psalm 43:3–5; antiphon: vv. 1–2a
Gradual: Psalm 143:9a, 10a; 18:48a, c
Tract: Psalm 129:1–4
Jesus Is Our Redemption
In the temple Jesus said, “If anyone keeps my word, he will never see death” (John 8:51). For Jesus came to taste death for us—to drink the cup of suffering to the dregs in order that we might be released from its power. Clinging to His life-giving words, we are delivered from death’s sting and its eternal judgment. Christ is our High Priest, who entered the Most Holy Place and with His own blood obtained everlasting redemption for His people (Heb. 9:11–15). He is the One who was before Abraham was, and yet is his descendant. He is the promised Son who carries the wood up the mountain for the sacrifice, who is bound and laid upon the altar of the cross. He is the ram who is offered in our place, who is willingly caught in the thicket of our sin, and who wears the crown of thorns upon His head (Gen. 22:1–14). Though Jesus is dishonored by the sons of the devil, He is vindicated by the Father through the cross.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Purple
Old Testament: Isaiah 49:8–13
Old Testament: Exodus 16:2–21
Psalm: Psalm 132:8–18; antiphon: v. 13
Second Reading: Acts 2:41–47
Epistle: Galatians 4:21–31
Gospel: John 6:1–15
Introit: Psalm 122:1–2, 6, 8; antiphon: Isaiah 66:10a, 11a
Gradual: Psalm 122:1, 7
Tract: Psalm 125:1–2, 5b
The Lord Feeds His People
The Lord provided bread from heaven for His people in the wilderness (Ex. 16:2–21). Now He who is Himself the living bread from heaven miraculously provides bread for the five thousand (John 6:1–15). This takes place near the time of the Passover, after a great multitude had followed Jesus across the sea, and when He went up on a mountain. Seen in this way, Jesus is our new and greater Moses, who releases us from the bondage of Mount Sinai and makes us free children of the promise (Gal. 4:21–31). Five loaves become twelve baskets—that is, the five books of Moses find their goal and fulfillment in Christ, whose people continue steadfastly in the doctrine and fellowship of the twelve apostles, and in the breaking and receiving of the bread of life, which is the body of Christ together with His precious blood, and in the prayers (Acts 2:41–47). So it is that God’s people “shall not hunger or thirst” (Is. 49:8–13). For He abundantly provides for us in both body and soul.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Purple
Old Testament: Genesis 32:22–32
Psalm: Psalm 121; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Epistle: Romans 5:1–5
Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 4:1–7
Gospel: Matthew 15:21–28
Introit: Psalm 25:1–2a, 7–8, 11; antiphon: vv. 6, 2b, 22
Gradual: Psalm 25:17–18
Tract: Psalm 106:1–4
Holding God to His Word
Jacob wrestled with God; he would not let Him go until he received a blessing from Him (Gen. 32:22–32). So it was with the Canaanite woman. Though Jesus seemed to ignore and reject her, she continued to call upon His name and look to Him for help (Mt. 15:21–28). Even when the Lord called her a little dog, she held on to Him in faith and would not let Him wriggle out of His words: “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” This Gentile woman shows herself to be a true Israelite, who struggles with God and man in Christ and prevails. “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire” (Mt. 15:27–28). This is the sanctifying will of God (1 Thess. 4:1–7)—to test your faith in order that it may be refined and strengthened. For tribulation produces perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope. And hope in Christ does not disappoint (Rom. 5:1–5).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Purple
Old Testament: Genesis 3:1–21
Old Testament: 1 Samuel 17:40–51
Psalm: Psalm 32; antiphon: v. 7
Psalm: Psalm 118:1–13; antiphon: v. 5
Epistle: Hebrews 4:14–16
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 6:1–10
Gospel: Matthew 4:1–11
Introit: Psalm 91:1–2, 9–10, 13; antiphon: vv. 15a, c, 16
Gradual: Psalm 91:11–12
Tract: Psalm 91:1, 4a, 15a, 16
Jesus Does Battle in Our Place
In the Garden, man exalts himself to be a god in place of God (Gen. 3:1–21). He succumbs to the temptation of the devil, and eating of the forbidden fruit, he receives death. But in the sin-cursed wilderness, God humbles Himself to become man in place of man (Mt. 4:1–11). He does not eat but fasts and bears the onslaughts of the devil for us that we may be restored to life. Jesus stands as David in our place to do battle against the Goliath, Satan (1 Samuel 17:40–51). Though outwardly Jesus appears weak, yet He comes in the name of the Lord of hosts. He draws from the five smooth stones of the books of Moses and slings the Word of God. The stone sinks into the forehead, and the enemy falls. In Christ we are victorious over the devil. Let us therefore not receive the grace of God in vain (2 Cor. 6:1–10), but seeing that we have a great High Priest, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain help in time of need (Heb 4:14–16).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Black
Old Testament: Jonah 3:1–10
Old Testament: Joel 2:12–19
Psalm: Psalm 51; antiphon: v. 17
Psalm: Psalm 51:1–13; antiphon: v. 17
Epistle: 2 Peter 1:2–11
Gospel: Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21
Gospel: Matthew 6:16–21
Introit: Psalm 57:1–3a, c; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Psalm 57:1a, 3a
Tract: Psalm 103:10; 79:8a, 9a
Return to the Lord Your God with All Your Heart, for He Has Reconciled You to Himself
“Consecrate a fast, call a solemn assembly; gather the people” (Joel 2:15–16). Lent, with its corporate fast, begins today. Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return(Imposition of Ashes, from Genesis 3:19). “Who knows, whether God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger” (Jonah 3:9)? We know. Faith believes that, for Christ’s sake, “a broken and contrite heart our God will not despise” (Psalm 51:17). He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love (Joel 2:13); therefore, we do not hesitate to return to him with all our heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning” (v.12). He raises the dead, as we shall see in forty days’ time. Satan opposes such reconciliation and life. He would twist our discipline into self-serving pride (Matthew 6:1–12), leading us into unbelief and unfruitfulness until we fall from the Lord’s precious and very great promises (2 Peter 1:4, 8). For this reason, our Lenten discipline not only gives something up but also takes up the sustenance and exercise of faith: hearing His Word and turning from ourselves—to God in prayer and to our neighbor with charity. Make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection and love” (v. 5–7).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: 1 Samuel 16:1–13
Old Testament: Isaiah 35:3–7
Psalm: Psalm 89:18–29; antiphon: v. 20
Psalm: Psalm 146; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 13:1–13
Gospel: Luke 18:31–43
Introit: Psalm 31:1, 5, 9, 16; antiphon: vv. 2b–3
Gradual: Psalm 77:14–15
Tract: Psalm 100:1–3
Faith Alone
The seeing are blind, while the one who is blind can see (Luke 18:31–43). Jesus tells the twelve that He is going up to Jerusalem to suffer and die and rise again, but they cannot understand or grasp what He is saying. The meaning of His words is hidden from their sight. However, as Jesus makes His way up to Jerusalem, a blind man calls out to Him for mercy. This blind man sees that Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior, for he calls Him “Son of David.” Indeed, Jesus is the Lord’s anointed, the keeper of sheep (1 Sam. 16:1–13) who goes to lay down His life for the sheep. He is the incarnate love of the Father who suffers long and is kind, who is not puffed up, who never fails us (1 Cor. 13:1–13). Jesus opens the eyes of the blind (Is. 35:3–7) to see Him not according to outward appearances of lowliness, but according to His heart of mercy and compassion. Those who behold Him thus by faith follow Him to the cross through death into life.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Biblical Cosmology Class 3
Class Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.z1vdba4ocg1i
SEXAGESIMA
Isaiah 55:10–13
2 Corinthians 11:19—12:9
or Hebrews 4:9–13
Luke 8:4–15
Scripture Alone
The Sower sows the seed of His Word (Luke 8:4–15). This Word is living and powerful (Heb. 4:9–13) to conceive new life in those who hear it. But the planting of Christ is attacked by the devil, the world, and the flesh. Satan snatches the Word away from hard hearts. The riches and pleasures of this life choke off faith. Shallow and emotional belief withers in time of temptation and trouble. But see how Christ bears this attack for us! Christ’s cross was planted in the hard and rocky soil of Golgotha. A crown of thorns was placed upon His head. Satan and His demons hellishly hounded and devoured Him. Yet, through His dying and rising again, He destroyed these enemies of ours. Jesus is Himself the Seed which fell to the ground and died in order that it might sprout forth to new life and produce much grain. In Him, the weak are strong (2 Cor. 11:19–12:9). He is the Word of the Father which does not return void (Is. 55:10–13) but yields a harvest hundredfold.
Biblical Cosmology Class 2
Class Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.jebujyjhy2z8
Color: Green
Old Testament: Exodus 17:1–7
Psalm: Psalm 95:1–9; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 9:24—10:5
Gospel: Matthew 20:1–16
Introit: Psalm 18:1–2a, 27, 32, 49; antiphon: vv. 5–6a
Gradual: Psalm 9:9–10, 18–19a
Tract: Psalm 130:1–4
Grace Alone
The people of Israel contended with the Lord in the wilderness (Ex. 17:1–7). They were dissatisfied with His provision. In the same way, the first laborers in the vineyard complained against the landowner for the wage he provided them (Matt. 20:1–16). They charged him with being unfair, but in reality he was being generous. For the Lord does not wish to deal with us on the basis of what we deserve but on the basis of His abounding grace in Christ. The first—those who rely on their own merits—will be last. “For they were overthrown in the wilderness” (1 Cor. 10:5). But the last, those who rely on Christ, will be first. For Christ is the Rock (1 Cor. 9:24–10:5). He is the One who was struck and from whose side blood and water flowed that we may be cleansed of our sin.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Biblical Cosmology Class 1
Class Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Yni__tn-bCYL8XWHmaMlNbrXaGul8dcSGi0DbDgodA/edit?tab=t.0
Color: White
First Reading: Acts 4:8–13
Psalm: Psalm 118:19–29; antiphon: v. 26
Epistle: 2 Peter 1:1–15
Gospel: Mark 8:27—9:1
Gospel: Mark 8:27–35
Introit: Psalm 89:1, 5, 15–16; antiphon: Psalm 119:46
Gradual: 2 Corinthians 4:5a, 13c; 1 Peter 4:11b; Psalm 113:3
Verse: Mark 8:35
Losing Ourselves in the Confession of the One Name of Salvation
St. Peter speaks for all disciples when he confesses, “You are the Christ” (Mark 8:29). This confession is the bedrock of the Church, which Christ Himself builds (Matt. 16:18), for “this Jesus,” the stone rejected by earthly builders, “has become the cornerstone” (Acts 4:11). This was a scandal even to Peter. The Christ must suffer, be rejected, be killed “and after three days rise again” (Mark 8:31), for through this work of salvation received by faith, God’s “precious and very great promises” are granted, “so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature” (2 Peter 1:4). Wherever Jesus is the Christ, His disciples deny themselves, take up their crosses and follow Him (Mark 8:34). They have been cleansed from their former sins and increase in faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection and love, effective and fruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:5–9). All who trust in Jesus, the Christ of Peter’s confession, will save their life, though for His sake they lose it (Mark 8:35). “For there is no other name … by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 60:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 24; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Ephesians 3:1–12
Gospel: Matthew 2:1–12
Introit: Psalm 72:1–2, 10–11; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Isaiah 60:6b, 1
Verse: Matthew 2:2b
The Lord God Is Manifested in the Incarnate Son
The Feast of the Epiphany centers in the visit of the Magi from the East. In that respect, it is a “Thirteenth Day” of Christmas; and yet, it also marks the beginning of a new liturgical season. While Christmas has focused on the Incarnation of our Lord—that is, on God becoming flesh—the season of Epiphany emphasizes the manifestation or self-revelation of God in that same flesh of Christ. For the Lord Himself has entered our darkness and rises upon us with the brightness of His true light (Is. 60:1–2). He does so chiefly by His Word of the Gospel, which He causes to be preached within His Church on earth—not only to the Jews but also to Gentiles (Eph. 3:8–10). As the Magi were guided by the promises of Holy Scripture to find and worship the Christ Child with His mother in the house (Matt. 2:5–11), so does He call disciples from all nations by the preaching of His Word, to find and worship Him within His Church (Is. 60:3–6). With gold they confess His royalty; with incense, His deity; and with myrrh, His priestly sacrifice (Matt. 2:11).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Red
Old Testament: Jeremiah 31:15–17
Psalm: Psalm 54; antiphon: v. 4
Epistle: Revelation 14:1–5
Gospel: Matthew 2:13–18
Introit: Psalm 31:1, 3, 5; antiphon: Revelation 7:14b
Gradual: Psalm 71:4a, 5a, 6a, b, 8
Verse: Psalm 116:15
The Holy Innocents, Martyrs
“A voice is heard in Ramah, lamentation and bitter weeping. Rachel is weeping for her children” (Jer. 31:15). Herod rages and sends to kill all boys two years and younger (Matt. 2:16), desperate to destroy the newborn King of kings. The Church remembers these innocent victims as martyrs. They died for the One who came to die for them. This dark commemoration bears witness to the cruelty of sinful men and the world’s hatred of Christ, who has sanctified our fragile life even from His conception and birth. But the boy who escaped Bethlehem’s bloody streets unscathed went on to face thorns, nails and spear for them and for us. He is the Lamb whose name is written with the Father’s name on the foreheads of His baptized saints (Rev. 14:1). By His death, He has redeemed an inheritance for Himself and brought peace at last by His blood. On the fourth day of Christmas, we sing “a new song” of the Lamb, of Christ the true martyr, whose death testifies that our redemption is won. We “follow the Lamb wherever he goes” (Rev. 14:3, 4), for He will bring our tears to an end.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Exodus 40:17–21, 34–38
Psalm: Psalm 2; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Titus 3:4–7
Gospel: John 1:1–18
Gospel: John 1:1–14
Introit: Psalm 98:1–4; antiphon: Isaiah 9:6
Gradual: Psalm 118:26a, 27a, 23
Verse: Liturgical Text
The Living and Life-Giving Word of God Dwells among Us in the Flesh
In the beginning God created all things through His Word, His Son. But man fell into sin, and with man all creation was cursed. Therefore, God spoke His Word again, this time into the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary. The glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle of our human nature (Ex. 40:17–21, 34–38). “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1–14). The Son of God took on our flesh and blood and died on the cross in order that we might receive the right to become the children of God through faith. Baptized into Christ’s body, we are made partakers of a new Genesis, “the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:4–7). In Christ, the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man has truly appeared.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Blue
Old Testament: Deuteronomy 18:15–19
Psalm: Psalm 111; antiphon: v. 9
Epistle: Philippians 4:4–7
Gospel: John 1:19–28
Gospel: Luke 1:39–56
Introit: Psalm 19:1, 4–6; antiphon: Isaiah 45:8a
Gradual: Psalm 145:18, 21
Verse: Psalm 40:17b
John the Baptizer Points Everyone to the Messiah
The coming of God in all His unveiled power at Mount Sinai was terrifying to the people of Israel. The thundering voice of the Lord puts sinners in fear of death (Deut. 18:15–19). God, therefore, raised up a prophet like Moses—the Messiah, the Christ. God came to His people veiled in human flesh. The skies poured down the Righteous One from heaven; the earth opened her womb and brought forth Salvation (Introit) through the blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of the Lord (Luke 1:39–56). The fruit of her womb is the very Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the One whose sandal strap John was not worthy to loose (John 1:19–28). In Jesus we are delivered from fear and anxiety. In Him alone we have the peace of God which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:4–7).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Blue
Old Testament: Isaiah 40:1–8
Old Testament: Isaiah 40:1–11
Psalm: Psalm 85; antiphon: v. 9
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 4:1–5
Gospel: Matthew 11:2–11
Gospel: Matthew 11:2–10
Introit: Psalm 85:1–2, 6, 8; antiphon: Philippians 4:4–5
Gradual: Psalm 80:1–2
Verse: Psalm 80:2b
John the Baptizer Prepares the Way for the Lord
The voice of the Baptizer cried out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord . . .” (Isa. 40:1). John called the people to be made ready for the Messiah’s coming through repentance, for “all flesh is grass” (Isa. 40:6). Now He asks from prison, “Are you the one who is to come . . .?” (Matt. 11:2). Jesus’ works bear witness that He is. The sick are made well; the dead are raised, and the poor have the Gospel preached to them. Their iniquity is pardoned; they have received from the Lord’s hand double forgiveness for all their sins. The “stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Cor. 4:1) still deliver Christ’s overflowing forgiveness to the poor in spirit, comforting God’s people with the word of the Gospel which stands forever. This Gospel produces rejoicing among all those who believe.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Blue
Old Testament: Malachi 4:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 50:1–15; antiphon: v. 15
Epistle: Romans 15:4–13
Gospel: Luke 21:25–36
Introit: Psalm 80:1, 3, 14, 17; antiphon: Isaiah 62:11b; 30:30, 29
Gradual: Psalm 50:2–3a, 5
Verse: Luke 21:26b–27
The Lord Comes on the Last Day
The day on which our Lord returns will be a “great and awesome day” (Mal. 4:5). For He will come in a cloud with great power and glory. To the wicked and the proud, it will be a Day of judgment that will “set them ablaze” (Mal. 4:1). The signs preceding this Day will bring them fear and fainting. But to those who believe, who fear the name of the Lord, this Day is one to look forward to and rejoice in: “. . . straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). Christ our Redeemer is coming; the Sun of Righteousness will bring healing in His wings. Let us, then, give attention to the words of the Lord, which do not pass away. Let us “through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures” (Rom. 15:4) be strengthened in our hope by the Holy Spirit and watch diligently for Jesus’ coming. Then, by God’s grace, we shall escape all these things that will come to pass and stand before the Son of Man.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Blue
Old Testament: Jeremiah 23:5–8
Psalm: Psalm 24; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Romans 13:8–14
Epistle: Romans 13:11–14
Gospel: Matthew 21:1–9
Introit: Psalm 25:4–5, 21–22; antiphon: vv. 1–3a
Gradual: Psalm 25:3–4
Verse: Psalm 85:7
The Lord Jesus Comes in Humility to Redeem Us
The new Church Year begins by focusing on the humble coming of our Lord. “Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey” (Matt. 21:5). Even as He was born in a lowly manger, so Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a beast of burden. For He bears the sin of the world. He is the Son of David riding to His enthronement on the cross, where He shows Himself to be “The Lord is our Righteousness” (Jer. 23:5–6). Our Lord still comes in great humility to deliver His righteousness to us in the Word and Sacraments. Before receiving Christ’s body and blood, we also sing, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” (Matt. 21:9) And as we receive the Sacrament, we set our hearts on His return in glory, for “our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Isaiah 65:17–25
Psalm: Psalm 149; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11
Gospel: Matthew 25:1–13
Introit: Psalm 39:4–5, 7–8; antiphon: Isaiah 35:10
Gradual: Psalm 45:14–15
Verse: Revelation 21:2
By Faith We Are Prepared for Christ’s Return
“The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night” (1 Thess. 5:1–11). The arrival of the bridegroom will be sudden and unexpected. Therefore you are to be watchful and ready like the five wise virgins. “For you know neither the day nor the hour” when the Son of Man is to return. (Matt. 25:1–13). The lamps are the Word of Christ. The oil in the lamps is the Holy Spirit, who works through the Word to create and sustain the flame of faith in Christ. The foolish are those who do not give proper attention to the working of the Holy Spirit in baptism, preaching, and the supper, and so their faith does not endure. The wise, however, are those who diligently attend to these gifts of the Spirit, and who therefore have an abundance of oil. The flame of faith endures to the end. By God’s grace they are received into the eternal wedding feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, the new heavens and the new earth created by the Lord for the joy of His people (Is. 65:17–25).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Micah 6:6–8
Psalm: Psalm 116:12–19; antiphon: v. 13
Epistle: Philippians 1:3–11
Gospel: Matthew 18:21–35
Introit: Psalm 130:1–2, 7–8; antiphon: vv. 3–4
Gradual: Psalm 133:1, 3b
Verse: Psalm 147:3
Walking Humbly with Our God and Forgiving One Another
With what shall we come before the Lord (Micah 6:6) who forgives all our sins, and how often shall our fellow Christians sin against us and we forgive them (Matt. 18:21)? Our gracious God on high does not need our “burnt offerings” or “thousands of rams” (Micah 6:6-7), which we could legitimately offer in thanksgiving. He is the Savior who gave His only-begotten Son for our transgression. He offers the fruit of His body, once hanging dead on a cross but now living and giving life in His holy Meal, for the sin of our souls (Micah 6:7). Because He releases us from our enormous debt of sin against Him, we need not imprison our fellow sinners with our lack of love and refusal of forgiveness (Matt. 18:24, 27, 30). As partakers of His grace, we yearn for one another “with the affection of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:8). As forgiven sinners, “filled with the fruit of Christ’s righteousness,” our “love may abound more and more, with knowledge and discernment” (Phil. 1:11, 9), for He leads us “to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with [our] God” (Micah 6:8).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: 2 Chronicles 28:8–15
Psalm: Psalm 32; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: Galatians 3:15–22
Gospel: Luke 10:23–37
Introit: Psalm 74:1–2, 19b, 21b; antiphon: vv. 20a, 21a, 22a, 23a
Gradual: Psalm 77:14–15
Verse: Psalm 88:1
Jesus Is Our Good Samaritan
The Law cannot help us or give us life. Rather, it confines everyone under sin as wounded and naked before God (Gal. 3:15–22). So it is that two figures of the Law, the priest and the Levite, passed by the injured man on the side of the road (Luke 10:23–37). Only the promised Seed of Abraham can rescue us and make us righteous before God. Only the Samaritan, our Lord Jesus, had compassion, as did the Samaritans of old (2 Chronicles 28:8–15). He came down to us in our lost and dying condition, pouring on the oil and wine of the Sacraments. He placed us on His own animal, bearing our sin and brokenness in His body on the cross to restore us. Jesus brought us to the inn, that is, the Church, and gave the innkeeper two denarii, that His double forgiveness might continue to be ministered to us. In this way the Lord, by whose Law we are torn and stricken, heals us and revives us by His Gospel and raises us up with Himself.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Isaiah 29:17–24
Psalm: Psalm 146; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 3:4–11
Epistle: Romans 10:9–17
Gospel: Mark 7:31–37
Introit: Psalm 70:2b, 4a, 5b; antiphon: vv. 1–2a
Gradual: Psalm 34:1–2
Verse: Psalm 81:1
Faith Comes from Hearing
A man who was deaf and therefore also had an impediment in his speech was brought to Jesus (Mark 7:31–37). In the same way, all are by nature deaf toward God and therefore also unable to confess the faith rightly. For “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Rom. 10:9–17). Jesus put His fingers into the man’s ears, and He spat and touched His tongue. Even so in Holy Baptism, water sanctified by the words of Jesus’ mouth is applied to us; and the finger of God, that is, the life–giving Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 3:4–11) is put into our ears in the hearing of the baptismal Gospel. Jesus’ sighing “Ephphatha” opened the man’s ears, and his tongue was loosed to speak plainly as Isaiah prophesied of the Messiah, “In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book” (Is. 29:18–24) So also, He who sighed and breathed His last on the cross for us has given us to hear and believe in Him and has opened our lips that our mouths may declare His praise.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 4:1–15
Psalm: Psalm 50:7–23; antiphon: v. 14
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:1–10
Epistle: Ephesians 2:1–10
Gospel: Luke 18:9–14
Introit: Psalm 68:1, 3, 7a, 10b, 19; antiphon: vv. 5b, 6a, 35b
Gradual: Psalm 28:7b, 1a, 2a
Verse: Psalm 90:1
The Lord Lifts Up the Lowly
“And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard” (Gen. 4:1–15). For unlike Abel, Cain’s offering did not proceed from a heart that revered and trusted in the Lord. Thus, the lowly tax collector who prayed, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” was the one who went down to his house justified before God, not the respectable, outwardly righteous Pharisee who trusted in himself and his own good living (Luke 18:9–14). “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph. 2:1–10). The one who penitently despairs of his own righteousness and relies completely on the atoning mercy of God in Christ is the one who is declared righteous. For Christ died for our sins and rose again the third day (1 Cor. 15:1–10). Therefore, “everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Jeremiah 23:16–29
Psalm: Psalm 26; antiphon: v. 12
Epistle: Romans 8:12–17
Second Reading: Acts 20:27–38
Gospel: Matthew 7:15–23
Introit: Psalm 48:1, 3, 11, 14; antiphon: vv. 9–10
Gradual: Psalm 31:2b, 1a
Verse: Psalm 78:1
Beware of False Prophets
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Matt. 7:15). Deceit has its strength in masquerading as the truth. False prophets speak a vision of their own heart, not from the mouth of the Lord (Jer. 23:16–29). They deny the judgment of the Lord, speaking peace to the unrepentant, when in truth there is condemnation and wrath. “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matt. 7:20). The “fruits” of a true prophet are not outward righteousness or success but faithfulness in proclaiming the Word of the Lord. This is the will of the Father in heaven, that pastors take heed to the flock, the Father’s adopted ones (Rom. 8:12–17), warning them against the wolves and their lies, and shepherding the Church of God which He purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:27–38). For indeed, the cross is that good tree bearing good fruit—namely, the body and blood of Christ, given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 2:7–17
Psalm: Psalm 33:1–11; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: Romans 6:19–23
Gospel: Mark 8:1–9
Introit: Psalm 47:3, 6–8; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Gradual: Psalm 34:11, 5
Verse: Psalm 47:1
Jesus Restores Paradise and Feeds Us Freely
In the Garden of Eden, our first parents received food freely from the gracious hand of God, apart from any burdensome work (Gen 2:7–17). But after the fall, food would be received only through toil and labor. The curse declared, “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground . . .” (Gen. 3:19). In other words, “The wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23). But into this wilderness world came Jesus the Messiah to restore creation. Having compassion on the weary multitudes, He renewed the bounty of Eden on the third day, freely granting an abundance of bread to the 4,000 (Mark 8:1–9). So also our Lord Jesus, having endured the burden of our sin, was raised on the third day to bring us back to Paradise. He now miraculously turns the bread of death into the Bread of Life in the Sacrament, giving you His very body and blood for your forgiveness. For “the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 6:23).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Exodus 20:1–17
Psalm: Psalm 19; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: Romans 6:3–11
Epistle: Romans 6:1–11
Gospel: Matthew 5:20–26
Gospel: Matthew 5:17–26
Introit: Psalm 28:1–2, 7; antiphon: vv. 8–9
Gradual: Psalm 90:13, 1, 2b
Verse: Psalm 31:1
Our Only Hope Is in Christ’s Righteousness
“Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matt 5:20). God demands nothing less than perfection and holiness from you in regard to His commandments (Ex. 20:1–17). Your only hope, then, is not in your own goodness but in the goodness of Christ, who did not come to destroy the Law and the Prophets, but to fulfill them for you. In Christ, your righteousness does indeed exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees. For you have been baptized into Christ’s death and your sinful nature crucified. Therefore, he who has died has been freed from sin (Rom. 6:1–11). You are now raised with Christ to walk in newness of life and to share in His resurrection on the Last Day. Christ has brought you through the baptismal sea “out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery” (Ex. 20:2). Therefore, “consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 6:11).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: 1 Kings 19:11–21
Psalm: Psalm 16; antiphon: v. 11
Epistle: 1 Peter 3:8–15
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:18–25
Gospel: Luke 5:1–11
Introit: Psalm 27:1a, 11–12, 14; antiphon: vv. 7, 9b
Gradual: Psalm 84:9, 8
Verse: Psalm 21:1
Jesus Makes Fishers of Men
The Lord called fishermen to be fishers of men (Luke 5:1–11). The net they would use is the message of the cross, which is foolishness and a stumbling block to the world (1 Cor. 1:18–25). The power of God to save is not in spectacular signs like wind and fire and earthquakes (1 Kings 19:11–21), nor is it to be found in human intelligence and wisdom. The power of God to save comes in the still, small voice of the preaching of Christ crucified. In worldly darkness the disciples could catch nothing. But in the light of Christ, whose Word was attached to the water, the boats were filled with fish. So it is that in Baptism you have been drawn in to the ship of the Church. Though the nets are breaking and some who hear the Word do not believe, pastors continue to cast the net of the Gospel and the Sacraments, that Christians may abide in the boat of the Church and that we may be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:8–15).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 50:15–21
Psalm: Psalm 138; antiphon: v. 8b
Epistle: Romans 8:18–23
Epistle: Romans 12:14–21
Gospel: Luke 6:36–42
Introit: Psalm 27:3–4a, 5; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Gradual: Psalm 79:9–10a
Verse: Psalm 9:4b, 9
Christ’s Mercy Is Ours to Show to Others
“Be merciful, even as your Father also is merciful” (Luke 6:36–42). The old Adam in us wants to condemn and seek vengeance. But the Lord says, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay” (Rom. 12:14–21). To condemn, to avenge yourself, is to put yourself in the place of God. It is to fail to trust that He is just. Ultimately, it is to disbelieve that Jesus suffered the full vengeance for all wrongs. Only Christ is merciful as the Father is merciful. He is the one who overcame all evil with the good of His cross, forgiving even His executioners. Jesus is our Joseph, who comforts us with words of pardon and reconciliation (Gen. 50:15–21). He is the One who does not condemn but gives life that runs over. Only through faith in Christ are we sons of the Father—being merciful, forgiving, doing good to our enemies. For in Christ we know that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Rom. 8:8–13).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Micah 7:18–20
Psalm: Psalm 103:1–13; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: 1 Timothy 1:12–17
Epistle: 1 Peter 5:6–11
Gospel: Luke 15:1–10
Gospel: Luke 15:11–32
Introit: Psalm 25:1–2a, 5b, 15, 20; antiphon: vv. 16, 18
Gradual: Psalm 55:22a, 16, 18a
Verse: Psalm 18:1–2a
Jesus Receives Sinners
“This man receives sinners and eats with them” (Luke 15:2). The Pharisees’ statement of judgment against Jesus is in fact a proclamation of Gospel truth. For our God is one who delights in mercy, who casts all our sins into the depths of the sea through the cross (Micah 7:18–20). “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Tim. 1:15). Those who refuse to be counted as sinners also refuse Jesus who came only for sinners. Those like the older son (Luke 15:11–32), who think they are righteous of themselves, will not join in the heavenly celebration over the sinner who repents and so remain outside of the Father’s house. Let us therefore be on guard against self–righteously trusting in our own merits. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you” (1 Peter 5:6). Rejoice that Jesus receives sinners like us and that He still sits at table with us in the Holy Supper, bestowing His forgiveness and life.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Red
First Reading: Acts 15:1–12
First Reading: Acts 15:1–21
Psalm: Psalm 46; antiphon: v. 11
Epistle: Galatians 2:1–10
Gospel: Matthew 16:13–19
Introit: Psalm 89:1, 5, 15–16; antiphon: Psalm 119:46
Gradual: Romans 10:15b, 18b; Isaiah 52:7b, alt.
Verse: Matthew 16:18b
St. Peter and St. Paul, Apostles
Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God.” So confessed St. Peter. And Christ promised to build His Church on it by the forgiveness of sins (Matt. 16:16–19). He does this so we don’t try to build the Church ourselves, on this or that person, or by any human means. “Let no one boast in men … whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas,” for “all are yours, and you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s” (1 Cor. 3:21–23). The same Lord “who worked through Peter … worked also through” Paul and is still at work in His Gospel and Sacraments (Gal. 2:7–8). The Church of every age must be recalled to “hear the word of the gospel” — the free forgiveness of sins for Christ’s sake apart from the Law — “and believe.” The Holy Spirit makes “no distinction” among men, but cleanses “hearts by faith” alone. So “we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus” (Acts 15:7–11). Both were imprisoned (Acts 12:1–11), both wrote Scripture (2 Peter 3:15–16), both opposed the world — and sometimes each other (Gal. 2:11–16) — all so “that the truth of the gospel might be preserved” for us (Gal. 2:5).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 15:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 33:12–22; antiphon: v. 20
Epistle: 1 John 4:16–21
Gospel: Luke 16:19–31
Introit: Psalm 13:1–4; antiphon: vv. 5–6
Gradual: Psalm 41:4, 1
Verse: Psalm 7:1
Faith Trusts in Christ for Life Eternal
When the beggar Lazarus died, he was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. For he was truly Abraham’s seed. Like Abraham, he believed in the Lord, and the Lord “counted it to him as righteousness” (Gen. 15:6). The name Lazarus means “God is my help.” The unnamed rich man, on the other hand, did not love and trust in God. For he evidently cared little for the beggar at his gate. And “he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen” (1 John 4:20). He who loved and trusted in possessions and prestige died and was in torments in Hades (Luke 16:19–31). Repentance and faith are worked only through Moses and the prophets—that is, the Word of God, for it points us to Christ. Only through His death and resurrection are we brought the comfort of life everlasting.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 6:1–7
Psalm: Psalm 29; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: Romans 11:33–36
Gospel: John 3:1–17
Gospel: John 3:1–15
Introit: Psalm 8:1–2a, 3–5; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Liturgical Text
Verse: Liturgical Text
The Holy Trinity Reveals Himself to Sinners
When Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he cried out “Woe is me!” For the sinner cannot stand in the presence of a holy God and live (Is. 6:1–7). But God the Father lifted up His Son Jesus for us on the cross, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. This eternal life of Christ is given us according to the Holy Spirit’s good pleasure in Baptism. “Unless one is born [again] of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). To sinners in fear of death, the messengers of God place on our lips the living body and blood of Christ and speak His words of absolution, “Your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for” (Is. 6:7). Having received forgiveness and life from the Father through the Son by the Holy Spirit, we join with the angels in praising the blessed Trinity, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts!” (Is. 6:3). “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen” (Rom. 11:33–36).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Red
Old Testament: Genesis 11:1–9
Psalm: Psalm 143; antiphon: v. 11
Second Reading: Acts 2:1–21
Gospel: John 14:23–31
Introit: Psalm 68:1, 4a, c, 11a, 33b, 35a; antiphon: Liturgical Text; Psalm 68:3
Verse: Psalm 104:30; Liturgical Text
The Holy Spirit Gives Peace
Following the flood, Noah’s descendants failed to spread out and fill the earth as God had spoken. Rather, they exalted themselves; with “one language and the same words” (Gen. 11:1) they spoke proudly and arrogantly. The Lord humbled them by confusing “the language of all the earth,” dividing and dispersing the people (Gen. 11:9). That dispersal was reversed on Pentecost Day (the fiftieth day of Easter), when God caused the one Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to be preached in a multitude of languages. “At this sound the multitude came together” (Acts 2:6), for the preaching of Christ is the primary work of the Holy Spirit, whereby He gathers people from all nations into one Church. The Holy Spirit teaches and brings to our remembrance the words of Jesus, which are the words of the Father who sent Him. These words bestow forgiveness and peace to those who keep and hold on to them in love for Jesus. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: 2 Kings 2:5–15
Psalm: Psalm 110; antiphon: v. 1
Second Reading: Acts 1:1–11
Gospel: Mark 16:14–20
Gospel: Luke 24:44–53
Introit: Psalm 47:1–2, 5, 8; antiphon: Acts 1:11
Verse: Psalm 47:5; 68:18a
Jesus Is Ascended, but Not Absent
On the fortieth day after His resurrection, our Lord ascended to the right hand of the Father. But although Jesus is hidden from your eyes, He is not absent from you. For He now fills all things in heaven and on earth. He continues “to do and to teach” (Acts 1:1), preaching repentance and forgiveness of sins through those sent in His name (Mark 16:14–20; Luke 24:44–53), giving you His true body and blood in the Supper. Jesus is your great Elijah who pours out on you a double portion of His Spirit in the Word and the Sacraments (2 Kings 2:5–15). He is Lord over all things for the sake of the Church. He whom heaven cannot contain has raised your human nature to share fully in the glory of God. You who believe and are baptized into Christ’s body are already sitting in the heavenly places; for you are in Him who is at the Father’s right hand. When He comes again in the clouds on the Last Day, you also will appear with Him in glory.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Numbers 21:4–9
Psalm: Psalm 107:1–9; antiphon: v. 19
Epistle: 1 Timothy 2:1–6
Epistle: James 1:22–27
Gospel: John 16:23–33
Introit: Psalm 66:1–2a, 17, 19–20; antiphon: Isaiah 48:20b
Verse: Liturgical Text; John 16:28
The Father Answers Our Prayers Because of Jesus
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you” (John 16:23). To pray in Jesus’ name is to pray as one who has been baptized. For it is in the water that He put His name upon you, claiming you as His own, making you a son of God with access to the Father. By His incarnation and crucifixion, our Lord Jesus broke through the barrier of sin which separated us from God, opening a portal to the Father. To pray in Jesus’ name is to pray with faith in Him as the one Mediator between God and men, who gave Himself a ransom for all (1 Tim. 2:1–6). Like Moses in the wilderness, Jesus is our go-between and intercessor before the throne of heaven. He was lifted up for us on the cross that we might be saved and restored to fellowship with the Father (Num. 21:4–9). Looking into this perfect teaching of liberty (James 1:22–27) we pray with boldness and confidence as dear children of God.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 12:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 66:1–8; antiphon: v. 5
Epistle: James 1:16–21
Gospel: John 16:5–15
Introit: Psalm 98:1b, 3–4; antiphon: vv. 1a, 2b
Verse: Psalm 118:16; Romans 6:9
Jesus Promises to Send His Holy Spirit, the Helper
Though Jesus has departed from us visibly to the right hand of the Father who sent Him, yet this is to our advantage. For Jesus—who is Lord over all creation, who intercedes for us before the Father, who is preparing a place for us in heaven—has sent the Helper, the Spirit of Truth (John 16:5–15). “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights” through Jesus Christ (James 1:17). The Holy Spirit helps us by taking what is Christ’s and declaring it to us. In the Word of truth, the Spirit works repentance and delivers to us the forgiveness of sins, the righteousness of Christ, and victory over the devil. For the ruler of this world is judged and defeated by the cross. Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, we have been brought forth to new life in Him who is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. Confident of our resurrection with Christ we confess, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid” (Is. 12:2).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 40:25–31
Old Testament: Lamentations 3:22–33
Psalm: Psalm 147:1–11; antiphon: v. 5
Epistle: 1 John 3:1–3
Epistle: 1 Peter 2:11–20
Gospel: John 16:16–22
Introit: Psalm 66:3, 5, 8–9; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Verse: Psalm 111:9a; Luke 24:26
Those Who Wait on the Lord Shall Rejoice
The people of God are pilgrims and sojourners in this world, looking ahead to a destination yet to come (1 Peter 2:11–20). Though we are now children of God, the fullness of what we shall be has not yet been revealed (1 John 3:1–3). We are those who wait on the Lord. “The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him” (Lam. 3:25). Jesus tells us that the wait is just a little while. “A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me” (John 16:16). Though you must experience sorrow for a time, though you must live as strangers in a world that is at enmity with Christ, yet your sorrow will be turned to joy when He returns. “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength” (Is. 40:31). The little while of weeping shall be replaced with an eternity of rejoicing in the presence of Christ the crucified and risen Savior. “And no one will take your joy from you” (John 16:22).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Ezekiel 34:11–16
Psalm: Psalm 23; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 Peter 2:21–25
Gospel: John 10:11–16
Introit: Psalm 33:1, 18–20; antiphon: vv. 5b, 6a
Verse: Luke 24:35b; John 10:14
The Good Shepherd Cares for His Sheep
Our Lord Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11–16). He is not like the hireling, who cares nothing for the sheep and only for himself, who flees when he sees the wolf coming. Rather, Jesus is the Good Shepherd who seeks out His scattered sheep to deliver them (Ezek. 34:11–16). He gathers them and feeds them in rich pasture. He binds up the broken and strengthens the sick. He lays down His life for wandering and wayward sheep. On the cross, Christ bore in His body the attacks of the predators of sin and death and the devil for you that you might be saved. He now lives to restore your soul in the still waters of baptism, to lead you in the paths of righteousness by the voice of His Gospel, to prepare the table of His holy supper before you, that you may dwell in the house of the Lord forever (Psalm 23). “For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls” (1 Peter 2:25).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Ezekiel 37:1–14
Psalm: Psalm 33; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 John 5:4–10
Gospel: John 20:19–31
Introit: Psalm 81:1, 7a, 10, 16b; antiphon: 1 Peter 2:2a
Verse: Matthew 28:7b; John 20:26a, c
The Wounds of Christ Give Us Life
“For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood” (1 John 5:7). These three point to Christ and flow from Christ. Jesus shows His disciples His hands side, from which blood and water flowed, saying “Peace be with you.” He presents the wounds which turn our fear to gladness and which restore us to the Father. Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:23). His breath, His words are Spirit and life. They raise up our dry, dead bones and give us new and everlasting life (Ezek. 37:1–14). Christ now gives His ministers to speak His forgiving, Spirit-filled words to the penitent in His stead. Our Lord continues to come to His people, presenting His wounds to us in the Sacraments of water and blood. He bids us to touch His side at His table, to receive His risen body and blood in true faith, that believing we may have life in His name.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Job 19:23–27
Psalm: Psalm 118:15–29; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:51–57
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 5:6–8
Gospel: Mark 16:1–8
Introit: Psalm 8:1, 5–6, 9; antiphon: Luke 24:5b–6b
Gradual: Psalm 118:24, 1
Verse: 1 Corinthians 5:7b–8a, c
Christ’s Resurrection Means That We Will One Day Be Raised
“Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Cor. 5:7). By the shed blood of Christ, the Lamb of God, eternal death has passed over us. Now we pass with Christ through death into life everlasting. For Christ the crucified One is risen! The stone has been rolled away from the tomb, revealing that the tomb could not hold Him (Mark 16:1–8). Now our Redeemer lives eternally to save us from sin and Satan and the grave, and we can live in the sure hope of our own bodily resurrection with Christ. “After my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God” (Job 19:26). Feasting on the living Christ, who is our meat and drink indeed, we boldly say: “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? . . . But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:54–55, 57).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Black
Old Testament: Isaiah 52:13—53:12
Psalm: Psalm 22; antiphon: v. 1
Psalm: Psalm 31; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:14–21
Gospel: John 18:1—19:42
Introit: Psalm 102:1–2, 12; antiphon: Isaiah 53:4a, 5a, 6a, c
Gradual: Isaiah 53:1, 11b
Tract: Psalm 140:1–7, 12–13
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the world. “Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and carries our sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement, so that “with His stripes we are healed” (Is. 53:4–5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). For in Christ, “God was reconciling the whole world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them” (2 Cor. 5:19).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Black
Old Testament: Isaiah 52:13—53:12
Psalm: Psalm 22; antiphon: v. 1
Psalm: Psalm 31; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:14–21
Gospel: John 18:1—19:42
Introit: Psalm 102:1–2, 12; antiphon: Isaiah 53:4a, 5a, 6a, c
Gradual: Isaiah 53:1, 11b
Tract: Psalm 140:1–7, 12–13
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the world. “Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and carries our sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement, so that “with His stripes we are healed” (Is. 53:4–5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). For in Christ, “God was reconciling the whole world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them” (2 Cor. 5:19).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Exodus 12:1–14
Old Testament: Exodus 24:3–11
Psalm: Psalm 116:12–19; antiphon: v. 17
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 11:23–32
Gospel: John 13:1–15
Gospel: John 13:1–15, 34–35
Introit: Psalm 67:1–3, 6b–7; antiphon: Galatians 6:14b; Liturgical Text
Gradual: Psalm 111:4–5
Tract: Psalm 111:4–5; John 6:55–56
Let Us Love One Another, as Christ Jesus Has Loved Us
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes” (1 Cor. 11:26). By eating His body and drinking His blood, we proclaim to all the world that Jesus is, indeed, our Passover Lamb (Ex. 12:1–14), who was sacrificed for us on Calvary. In Christ, the Lord remembers us in mercy and remembers our sin no more; He forgives us all our iniquity. With such love, he “loved His own who were in the world,” and even loves us “to the end” (John 13:1). As He washes us and feeds us in love, let us love one another, just as He has loved us (John 13:34).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
John 12:12–19
Color: Red
Old Testament: Zechariah 9:9–12
Psalm: Psalm 31:9–16; antiphon: v. 5
Psalm: Psalm 118:19–29; antiphon: v. 26
Epistle: Philippians 2:5–11
Gospel: Matthew 26:1—27:66
Gospel: Matthew 27:11–54
Introit: Psalm 22:1, 7–8, 11; antiphon: vv. 19, 21
Gradual: Psalm 73:23b–24, 1
Tract: Psalm 22:1, 4–5
The Cross and Passion of Our Lord Are the Hour of His Glory
“Behold, your King is coming to you . . . humble and mounted on a donkey” (Zech. 9:9–12; Mt. 21:1–9). Our Lord rides in this humble fashion because He is entering Jerusalem to humble Himself even to the point of death on a cross (Phil. 2:5–11). His kingly crown will not be made of gold but of thorns, the sign of sin’s curse. For His royal reign is displayed in bearing this curse for His people, saving us from our enemies by sacrificing His own life. The sinless One takes the place of the sinner so that the sinner can be freed and bear the name “Barabbas,” “son of the Father” (Matthew 26 and 27). It is at the name of this exalted Savior, Jesus, that we bow in humble faith. With the centurion who declared, “Truly this was the Son of God!” (Mt. 27:54), we are also given to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Phil. 2:11).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Purple
Old Testament: Genesis 22:1–14
Psalm: Psalm 43; antiphon: v. 5
Epistle: Hebrews 9:11–15
Gospel: John 8:42–59
Gospel: John 8:46–59
Introit: Psalm 43:3–5; antiphon: vv. 1–2a
Gradual: Psalm 143:9a, 10a; 18:48a, c
Tract: Psalm 129:1–4
Jesus Is Our Redemption
In the temple Jesus said, “If anyone keeps my word, he will never see death” (John 8:51). For Jesus came to taste death for us—to drink the cup of suffering to the dregs in order that we might be released from its power. Clinging to His life-giving words, we are delivered from death’s sting and its eternal judgment. Christ is our High Priest, who entered the Most Holy Place and with His own blood obtained everlasting redemption for His people (Heb. 9:11–15). He is the One who was before Abraham was, and yet is his descendant. He is the promised Son who carries the wood up the mountain for the sacrifice, who is bound and laid upon the altar of the cross. He is the ram who is offered in our place, who is willingly caught in the thicket of our sin, and who wears the crown of thorns upon His head (Gen. 22:1–14). Though Jesus is dishonored by the sons of the devil, He is vindicated by the Father through the cross.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Purple
Old Testament: Isaiah 49:8–13
Old Testament: Exodus 16:2–21
Psalm: Psalm 132:8–18; antiphon: v. 13
Second Reading: Acts 2:41–47
Epistle: Galatians 4:21–31
Gospel: John 6:1–15
Introit: Psalm 122:1–2, 6, 8; antiphon: Isaiah 66:10a, 11a
Gradual: Psalm 122:1, 7
Tract: Psalm 125:1–2, 5b
The Lord Feeds His People
The Lord provided bread from heaven for His people in the wilderness (Ex. 16:2–21). Now He who is Himself the living bread from heaven miraculously provides bread for the five thousand (John 6:1–15). This takes place near the time of the Passover, after a great multitude had followed Jesus across the sea, and when He went up on a mountain. Seen in this way, Jesus is our new and greater Moses, who releases us from the bondage of Mount Sinai and makes us free children of the promise (Gal. 4:21–31). Five loaves become twelve baskets—that is, the five books of Moses find their goal and fulfillment in Christ, whose people continue steadfastly in the doctrine and fellowship of the twelve apostles, and in the breaking and receiving of the bread of life, which is the body of Christ together with His precious blood, and in the prayers (Acts 2:41–47). So it is that God’s people “shall not hunger or thirst” (Is. 49:8–13). For He abundantly provides for us in both body and soul.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Purple
Old Testament: Exodus 8:16–24
Old Testament: Jeremiah 26:1–15
Psalm: Psalm 136:1–16; antiphon: v. 26
Psalm: Psalm 4; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: Ephesians 5:1–9
Gospel: Luke 11:14–28
Introit: Psalm 25:1–2, 17–18, 20; antiphon: vv. 15–16
Gradual: Psalm 9:19, 3
Tract: Psalm 123:1–3a
Jesus Overcomes the Strong Man
Jeremiah was charged with speaking evil when he spoke the Word of the Lord (Jer. 26:1–15). So also, Jesus is accused of doing evil when in fact He is doing good. He casts out a demon from a mute man so that he is able to speak (Luke 11:14–28). But some said Jesus did this by the power of Beelzebub, Satan. Like Pharaoh of old, their hearts were hard (Ex. 8:16–24). They did not recognize the finger of God, the power of the Holy Spirit at work in and through Jesus. Jesus is the Stronger Man who overcomes the strong man. He takes the devil’s armor of sin and death and destroys it from the inside out by the holy cross. He exorcizes and frees us by water and the Word. We were once darkness, but now we are light in Christ the Lord (Eph. 5:1–9). As children of light, our tongues are loosed to give thanks to Him who saved us.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Purple
Old Testament: Genesis 32:22–32
Psalm: Psalm 121; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Epistle: Romans 5:1–5
Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 4:1–7
Gospel: Matthew 15:21–28
Introit: Psalm 25:1–2a, 7–8, 11; antiphon: vv. 6, 2b, 22
Gradual: Psalm 25:17–18
Tract: Psalm 106:1–4
Holding God to His Word
Jacob wrestled with God; he would not let Him go until he received a blessing from Him (Gen. 32:22–32). So it was with the Canaanite woman. Though Jesus seemed to ignore and reject her, she continued to call upon His name and look to Him for help (Mt. 15:21–28). Even when the Lord called her a little dog, she held on to Him in faith and would not let Him wriggle out of His words: “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” This Gentile woman shows herself to be a true Israelite, who struggles with God and man in Christ and prevails. “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire” (Mt. 15:27–28). This is the sanctifying will of God (1 Thess. 4:1–7)—to test your faith in order that it may be refined and strengthened. For tribulation produces perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope. And hope in Christ does not disappoint (Rom. 5:1–5).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Purple
Old Testament: Genesis 3:1–21
Old Testament: 1 Samuel 17:40–51
Psalm: Psalm 32; antiphon: v. 7
Psalm: Psalm 118:1–13; antiphon: v. 5
Epistle: Hebrews 4:14–16
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 6:1–10
Gospel: Matthew 4:1–11
Introit: Psalm 91:1–2, 9–10, 13; antiphon: vv. 15a, c, 16
Gradual: Psalm 91:11–12
Tract: Psalm 91:1, 4a, 15a, 16
Jesus Does Battle in Our Place
In the Garden, man exalts himself to be a god in place of God (Gen. 3:1–21). He succumbs to the temptation of the devil, and eating of the forbidden fruit, he receives death. But in the sin-cursed wilderness, God humbles Himself to become man in place of man (Mt. 4:1–11). He does not eat but fasts and bears the onslaughts of the devil for us that we may be restored to life. Jesus stands as David in our place to do battle against the Goliath, Satan (1 Samuel 17:40–51). Though outwardly Jesus appears weak, yet He comes in the name of the Lord of hosts. He draws from the five smooth stones of the books of Moses and slings the Word of God. The stone sinks into the forehead, and the enemy falls. In Christ we are victorious over the devil. Let us therefore not receive the grace of God in vain (2 Cor. 6:1–10), but seeing that we have a great High Priest, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain help in time of need (Heb 4:14–16).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Black
Old Testament: Jonah 3:1–10
Old Testament: Joel 2:12–19
Psalm: Psalm 51; antiphon: v. 17
Psalm: Psalm 51:1–13; antiphon: v. 17
Epistle: 2 Peter 1:2–11
Gospel: Matthew 6:1–6, 16–21
Gospel: Matthew 6:16–21
Introit: Psalm 57:1–3a, c; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Psalm 57:1a, 3a
Tract: Psalm 103:10; 79:8a, 9a
Return to the Lord Your God with All Your Heart, for He Has Reconciled You to Himself
“Consecrate a fast, call a solemn assembly; gather the people” (Joel 2:15–16). Lent, with its corporate fast, begins today. Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return(Imposition of Ashes, from Genesis 3:19). “Who knows, whether God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger” (Jonah 3:9)? We know. Faith believes that, for Christ’s sake, “a broken and contrite heart our God will not despise” (Psalm 51:17). He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love (Joel 2:13); therefore, we do not hesitate to return to him with all our heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning” (v.12). He raises the dead, as we shall see in forty days’ time. Satan opposes such reconciliation and life. He would twist our discipline into self-serving pride (Matthew 6:1–12), leading us into unbelief and unfruitfulness until we fall from the Lord’s precious and very great promises (2 Peter 1:4, 8). For this reason, our Lenten discipline not only gives something up but also takes up the sustenance and exercise of faith: hearing His Word and turning from ourselves—to God in prayer and to our neighbor with charity. Make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection and love” (v. 5–7).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: 1 Samuel 16:1–13
Old Testament: Isaiah 35:3–7
Psalm: Psalm 89:18–29; antiphon: v. 20
Psalm: Psalm 146; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 13:1–13
Gospel: Luke 18:31–43
Introit: Psalm 31:1, 5, 9, 16; antiphon: vv. 2b–3
Gradual: Psalm 77:14–15
Tract: Psalm 100:1–3
Faith Alone
The seeing are blind, while the one who is blind can see (Luke 18:31–43). Jesus tells the twelve that He is going up to Jerusalem to suffer and die and rise again, but they cannot understand or grasp what He is saying. The meaning of His words is hidden from their sight. However, as Jesus makes His way up to Jerusalem, a blind man calls out to Him for mercy. This blind man sees that Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior, for he calls Him “Son of David.” Indeed, Jesus is the Lord’s anointed, the keeper of sheep (1 Sam. 16:1–13) who goes to lay down His life for the sheep. He is the incarnate love of the Father who suffers long and is kind, who is not puffed up, who never fails us (1 Cor. 13:1–13). Jesus opens the eyes of the blind (Is. 35:3–7) to see Him not according to outward appearances of lowliness, but according to His heart of mercy and compassion. Those who behold Him thus by faith follow Him to the cross through death into life.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Isaiah 55:10–13
Psalm: Psalm 84; antiphon: v. 4
Epistle: Hebrews 4:9–13
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 11:19—12:9
Gospel: Luke 8:4–15
Introit: Psalm 44:1–2, 7–8; antiphon: vv. 23, 25a, 26a
Gradual: Psalm 83:18, 13
Tract: Psalm 60:1–2, 5
Scripture Alone
The Sower sows the seed of His Word (Luke 8:4–15). This Word is living and powerful (Heb. 4:9–13) to conceive new life in those who hear it. But the planting of Christ is attacked by the devil, the world, and the flesh. Satan snatches the Word away from hard hearts. The riches and pleasures of this life choke off faith. Shallow and emotional belief withers in time of temptation and trouble. But see how Christ bears this attack for us! Christ’s cross was planted in the hard and rocky soil of Golgotha. A crown of thorns was placed upon His head. Satan and His demons hellishly hounded and devoured Him. Yet, through His dying and rising again, He destroyed these enemies of ours. Jesus is Himself the Seed which fell to the ground and died in order that it might sprout forth to new life and produce much grain. In Him, the weak are strong (2 Cor. 11:19–12:9). He is the Word of the Father which does not return void (Is. 55:10–13) but yields a harvest hundredfold.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Exodus 17:1–7
Psalm: Psalm 95:1–9; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 9:24—10:5
Gospel: Matthew 20:1–16
Introit: Psalm 18:1–2a, 27, 32, 49; antiphon: vv. 5–6a
Gradual: Psalm 9:9–10, 18–19a
Tract: Psalm 130:1–4
Grace Alone
The people of Israel contended with the Lord in the wilderness (Ex. 17:1–7). They were dissatisfied with His provision. In the same way, the first laborers in the vineyard complained against the landowner for the wage he provided them (Matt. 20:1–16). They charged him with being unfair, but in reality he was being generous. For the Lord does not wish to deal with us on the basis of what we deserve but on the basis of His abounding grace in Christ. The first—those who rely on their own merits—will be last. “For they were overthrown in the wilderness” (1 Cor. 10:5). But the last, those who rely on Christ, will be first. For Christ is the Rock (1 Cor. 9:24–10:5). He is the One who was struck and from whose side blood and water flowed that we may be cleansed of our sin.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Exodus 3:1–14
Old Testament: Exodus 34:29–35
Psalm: Psalm 2; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: 2 Peter 1:16–21
Gospel: Matthew 17:1–9
Introit: Psalm 84:1–2a, 4, 10–11; antiphon: Psalm 77:18b
Gradual: Psalm 45:2a; 110:1
Verse: Psalm 96:2–3
Jesus Is Transfigured and Manifests His Glory
The Lord appeared to Moses in the light of the burning bush (Ex. 3:1–14). Later Moses’ face would shine with the light of God’s glory when he came down from Mount Sinai (Ex. 34:29–35). At the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared with the One who is the Light of Light Himself (Matt. 17:1–9). Jesus’ glory as God shines with brilliant splendor in and through His human nature. By this epiphany, our Lord confirmed the prophetic word (2 Pet. 1:16–21), revealing that He is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. He manifested His majesty as the eternal Son of the Father, and He wonderfully foreshowed our adoption as sons (Collect). We who have been baptized into Christ’s body are given a glimpse of the glory that we will share with Him in the resurrection on the Last Day.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Jonah 1:1–17
Psalm: Psalm 96; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: Romans 13:8–10
Epistle: Romans 8:18–23
Gospel: Matthew 8:23–27
Introit: Psalm 107:1, 8, 24–25; antiphon: vv. 28–29
Gradual: Psalm 102:15–16
Verse: Psalm 97:1
Jesus Is Lord of All Creation
In Jonah we see ourselves. For Jonah fled from the presence of the Lord (Jonah 1:1–17) even as we sinners turn our backs on God and go our own way. This brings the storm of God’s judgment. But in Jonah we also see Christ. For even as he was in the great fish for three days and three nights, so also Christ Jesus was buried in the depths of death for us and raised on the third day. The Lord of creation, who rules over the wind and the wave (Matt. 8:23–27), saved us from the fury of divine wrath by taking the judgment in His own body. His love is the fulfillment of the Law (Rom. 13:8–10). Though our faith be weak in the face of peril, yet we are kept in safety on the ship of the Church; for the Son of God is with us. Though the whole creation groans with us under the curse, yet by Jesus’ speaking, there is a great calm. For we know that our present sufferings are not worthy to be compared with the glory to be revealed in us (Rom. 8:18–23).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
First Reading: Acts 20:28–35
Psalm: Psalm 71:1–14; antiphon: v. 17
Epistle: Titus 1:1–9
Gospel: Luke 10:1–9
Introit: Psalm 89:1, 5, 15–16; antiphon: Titus 3:4–5a
Gradual: Ezekiel 34:11, 12b; Jeremiah 23:4a, b
Verse: Titus 2:11
St. Titus, Pastor and Confessor
“Faith,” the “knowledge of the truth” and the “hope of eternal life” are manifested daily among us in His Word through the preaching of the Gospel of Christ Jesus (Titus 1:1–3). The times seem desperate: “Fierce wolves” are among us, “not sparing the flock” (Acts 20:29), and “the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few” (Luke 10:2). The Lord, however, is diligent to build and care for the Church, “which he obtained with his own blood” (Acts 20:28). We are not to fear, but rather to “pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest” (Luke 10:2). Send us faithful laborers! Preserve all pastors and teachers, that they “hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught” so that they, like St. Titus, “may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it” (Titus 1:9)! Give us ears to hear their preaching in repentance and faith. Preserve them from falsehood, greed and unholy living. We commend them to You and the Word of Your grace (Acts 20:32), that “when the chief Shepherd appears,” (1 Peter 5:4) He may declare, “Well done, good and faithful servant. … Enter into the joy of your master” (Matt. 25:21).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Exodus 33:12–23
Old Testament: Amos 9:11–15
Psalm: Psalm 111; antiphon: v. 9
Psalm: Psalm 67; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: Romans 12:6–16
Epistle: Ephesians 5:22–33
Gospel: John 2:1–11
Introit: Psalm 66:1–5, 20; antiphon: v. 4; 92:1
Gradual: Psalm 107:20–21
Verse: Psalm 148:2
Jesus’ First Miracle Reveals God’s Glory
The coming of the Messianic kingdom means the restoration of creation. The sign of this restoration is that “the mountains shall drip sweet wine” (Amos 9:11–15). When the elements of a fallen creation fail and run short at a wedding feast, our Lord Jesus steps in to restore creation and miraculously changes water into an abundance of the very best wine (John 2:1–11). With this sign, Christ manifests His glory. The “back” of God (Ex. 33:12–23) is revealed to those who believe. The hour will come when Jesus will again manifest His glory by taking creation’s curse into His own body to release us from its power. The Bridegroom will give His life for the Bride (Eph. 5:22–32), and from His side will flow water and blood, the holy sacraments by which she is cleansed and made one with Him. Through this sacrificial love of Christ we are enabled to “love one another with brotherly affection . . .” and to “outdo one another in showing honor” (Rom. 12:6–16).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Joshua 3:1–3, 7–8, 13–17
Old Testament: Isaiah 42:1–7
Psalm: Psalm 85; antiphon: v. 9
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:26–31
Gospel: Matthew 3:13–17
Introit: Psalm 89:1, 26–28; antiphon: Liturgical Text; Psalm 89:20
Gradual: Psalm 72:18–19
Verse: Psalm 143:10
In His Baptism, Jesus Takes His Place with Sinners
Our Lord Jesus is baptized “to fulfill all righteousness” (Matt. 3:13–17). He partakes of a baptism for sinners in order that He might be our substitute and bear the judgment we deserve. In the water, Jesus trades places with us. Our sin becomes His sin. His righteousness becomes our righteousness. Our glory, therefore, is in “Christ Jesus, who became to us . . . righteousness and sanctification and redemption” (1 Cor. 1:26–31). Jesus is the “chosen” One sent from the Father to release us from the prison house of sin and death (Is. 42:1–7). Baptized into Christ, we also become the chosen ones, beloved of the Father. We cross the Jordan with Jesus (Joshua 3) through death into the promised land of new life with God.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 60:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 24; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Ephesians 3:1–12
Gospel: Matthew 2:1–12
Introit: Psalm 72:1–2, 10–11; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Isaiah 60:6b, 1
Verse: Matthew 2:2b
The Lord God Is Manifested in the Incarnate Son
The Feast of the Epiphany centers in the visit of the Magi from the East. In that respect, it is a “Thirteenth Day” of Christmas; and yet, it also marks the beginning of a new liturgical season. While Christmas has focused on the Incarnation of our Lord—that is, on God becoming flesh—the season of Epiphany emphasizes the manifestation or self-revelation of God in that same flesh of Christ. For the Lord Himself has entered our darkness and rises upon us with the brightness of His true light (Is. 60:1–2). He does so chiefly by His Word of the Gospel, which He causes to be preached within His Church on earth—not only to the Jews but also to Gentiles (Eph. 3:8–10). As the Magi were guided by the promises of Holy Scripture to find and worship the Christ Child with His mother in the house (Matt. 2:5–11), so does He call disciples from all nations by the preaching of His Word, to find and worship Him within His Church (Is. 60:3–6). With gold they confess His royalty; with incense, His deity; and with myrrh, His priestly sacrifice (Matt. 2:11).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: 2 Samuel 7:1–16
Old Testament: Isaiah 11:1–5
Psalm: Psalm 89:1–8; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: Galatians 4:1–7
Gospel: Luke 2:33–40
Gospel: Luke 2:22–40
Introit: Psalm 93:1, 3–4; antiphon: vv. 5, 2
Gradual: Psalm 45:2a, 1b
Verse: Psalm 93:1
The Seed of David Comes to His Temple
A Rod has come forth from the stem of Jesse (Is. 11:1–5)—the Seed of David whose kingdom shall be established forever (2 Sam. 7:1–16). In the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son Jesus to redeem us from the judgment of the Law (Gal. 4:1–7). Now He is presented in the temple in fulfillment of the Law and revealed to be “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (Luke 2:22–40). Christ has enlightened us in baptism, giving us to be adopted as sons of God and heirs of eternal life. Receiving the Holy Sacrament of His body and blood, we are prepared to depart this world in peace, for our eyes have seen the salvation of God in Him.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Exodus 40:17–21, 34–38
Psalm: Psalm 2; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Titus 3:4–7
Gospel: John 1:1–18
Gospel: John 1:1–14
Introit: Psalm 98:1–4; antiphon: Isaiah 9:6
Gradual: Psalm 118:26a, 27a, 23
Verse: Liturgical Text
The Living and Life-Giving Word of God Dwells among Us in the Flesh
In the beginning God created all things through His Word, His Son. But man fell into sin, and with man all creation was cursed. Therefore, God spoke His Word again, this time into the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary. The glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle of our human nature (Ex. 40:17–21, 34–38). “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1–14). The Son of God took on our flesh and blood and died on the cross in order that we might receive the right to become the children of God through faith. Baptized into Christ’s body, we are made partakers of a new Genesis, “the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:4–7). In Christ, the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man has truly appeared.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 9:2–7
Psalm: Psalm 96; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: Titus 2:11–14
Gospel: Luke 2:1–14
Gospel: Luke 2:1–20
Introit: Psalm 2:1–2, 4–6; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Psalm 98:3b–4a, 2
Verse: Psalm 95:1a, 6b
The Light of Christ Shines Forth in the Darkness
Heaven and earth rejoice on this night because the glory of the Triune God is manifested in the human birth of “our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). In Him, the Father’s grace, mercy and peace rest upon the world. The silence of death is broken by this “good news of great joy that will be for all the people” (Luke 2:10). And all we who have gone astray like lost and wandering sheep, who have “walked in the darkness” of doubt and fear and sinful unbelief, behold “a great light” in the nativity of Christ (Is. 9:2). In Him “the grace of God has appeared” (Titus 2:11). For this Child of Mary who is born for us, this dear Son of God who is given to us, will bear the burden of our sin and death in His own body on the cross. He thereby establishes a government of peace, “with justice and with righteousness,” which shall have no end; not by any work of man, but “the zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this” (Is. 9:7).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Blue
Old Testament: Deuteronomy 18:15–19
Psalm: Psalm 111; antiphon: v. 9
Epistle: Philippians 4:4–7
Gospel: John 1:19–28
Gospel: Luke 1:39–56
Introit: Psalm 19:1, 4–6; antiphon: Isaiah 45:8a
Gradual: Psalm 145:18, 21
Verse: Psalm 40:17b
John the Baptizer Points Everyone to the Messiah
The coming of God in all His unveiled power at Mount Sinai was terrifying to the people of Israel. The thundering voice of the Lord puts sinners in fear of death (Deut. 18:15–19). God, therefore, raised up a prophet like Moses—the Messiah, the Christ. God came to His people veiled in human flesh. The skies poured down the Righteous One from heaven; the earth opened her womb and brought forth Salvation (Introit) through the blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of the Lord (Luke 1:39–56). The fruit of her womb is the very Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the One whose sandal strap John was not worthy to loose (John 1:19–28). In Jesus we are delivered from fear and anxiety. In Him alone we have the peace of God which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:4–7).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Blue
Old Testament: Isaiah 40:1–11
Psalm: Psalm 85; antiphon: v. 9
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 4:1–5
Gospel: Matthew 11:2–11
Introit: Psalm 85:1–2, 6, 8; antiphon: Philippians 4:4–5
Gradual: Psalm 80:1–2
Verse: Psalm 80:2b
John the Baptizer Prepares the Way for the Lord
The voice of the Baptizer cried out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord . . .” (Isa. 40:1). John called the people to be made ready for the Messiah’s coming through repentance, for “all flesh is grass” (Isa. 40:6). Now He asks from prison, “Are you the one who is to come . . .?” (Matt. 11:2). Jesus’ works bear witness that He is. The sick are made well; the dead are raised, and the poor have the Gospel preached to them. Their iniquity is pardoned; they have received from the Lord’s hand double forgiveness for all their sins. The “stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Cor. 4:1) still deliver Christ’s overflowing forgiveness to the poor in spirit, comforting God’s people with the word of the Gospel which stands forever. This Gospel produces rejoicing among all those who believe.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Blue
Old Testament: Malachi 4:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 50:1–15; antiphon: v. 15
Epistle: Romans 15:4–13
Gospel: Luke 21:25–36
Introit: Psalm 80:1, 3, 14, 17; antiphon: Isaiah 62:11b; 30:30, 29
Gradual: Psalm 50:2–3a, 5
Verse: Luke 21:26b–27
The Lord Comes on the Last Day
The day on which our Lord returns will be a “great and awesome day” (Mal. 4:5). For He will come in a cloud with great power and glory. To the wicked and the proud, it will be a Day of judgment that will “set them ablaze” (Mal. 4:1). The signs preceding this Day will bring them fear and fainting. But to those who believe, who fear the name of the Lord, this Day is one to look forward to and rejoice in: “. . . straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). Christ our Redeemer is coming; the Sun of Righteousness will bring healing in His wings. Let us, then, give attention to the words of the Lord, which do not pass away. Let us “through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures” (Rom. 15:4) be strengthened in our hope by the Holy Spirit and watch diligently for Jesus’ coming. Then, by God’s grace, we shall escape all these things that will come to pass and stand before the Son of Man.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Blue
Old Testament: Jeremiah 23:5–8
Psalm: Psalm 24; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Romans 13:8–14
Epistle: Romans 13:11–14
Gospel: Matthew 21:1–9
Introit: Psalm 25:4–5, 21–22; antiphon: vv. 1–3a
Gradual: Psalm 25:3–4
Verse: Psalm 85:7
The Lord Jesus Comes in Humility to Redeem Us
The new Church Year begins by focusing on the humble coming of our Lord. “Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey” (Matt. 21:5). Even as He was born in a lowly manger, so Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a beast of burden. For He bears the sin of the world. He is the Son of David riding to His enthronement on the cross, where He shows Himself to be “The Lord is our Righteousness” (Jer. 23:5–6). Our Lord still comes in great humility to deliver His righteousness to us in the Word and Sacraments. Before receiving Christ’s body and blood, we also sing, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” (Matt. 21:9) And as we receive the Sacrament, we set our hearts on His return in glory, for “our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Isaiah 65:17–25
Psalm: Psalm 149; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 5:1–11
Gospel: Matthew 25:1–13
Introit: Psalm 39:4–5, 7–8; antiphon: Isaiah 35:10
Gradual: Psalm 45:14–15
Verse: Revelation 21:2
By Faith We Are Prepared for Christ’s Return
“The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night” (1 Thess. 5:1–11). The arrival of the bridegroom will be sudden and unexpected. Therefore you are to be watchful and ready like the five wise virgins. “For you know neither the day nor the hour” when the Son of Man is to return. (Matt. 25:1–13). The lamps are the Word of Christ. The oil in the lamps is the Holy Spirit, who works through the Word to create and sustain the flame of faith in Christ. The foolish are those who do not give proper attention to the working of the Holy Spirit in baptism, preaching, and the supper, and so their faith does not endure. The wise, however, are those who diligently attend to these gifts of the Spirit, and who therefore have an abundance of oil. The flame of faith endures to the end. By God’s grace they are received into the eternal wedding feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, the new heavens and the new earth created by the Lord for the joy of His people (Is. 65:17–25).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Old Testament: Job 14:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 102:1–13; antiphon: v. 12
Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18
Gospel: Matthew 24:15–28
Introit: Psalm 31:1–2a, 5, 24; antiphon: vv. 9a, 15b, 17a
Gradual: Psalm 74:4, 2a
Verse: Psalm 46:4
Faith Comes By Hearing the Word of Christ
“The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed” (Luke 17:20). You must use your ears and not your eyes. For God’s kingdom in this world is one of faith, and faith comes by hearing the Word of Christ. The people of Israel, however, wanted to walk not by faith but by sight. When Moses delayed in coming down the mountain, they decided to make a visible god for themselves, the golden calf (Ex. 32:1). Upon such faithless and false worshipers God’s judgment comes. Only on the Last Day will our faith be turned to sight. “For as the lightning comes from the east and shines as far as the west, so will be the coming of the Son of Man” (Matt. 24:27). The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, and He will gather His people to Himself, both the living and the dead. In a world in which our days are few and full of trouble (Job 14:1), let us comfort one another with these words of the resurrection and the coming of our Lord Jesus.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Revelation 5
Class Notes at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bnLzimYfwjp6mb6erh8JQ4GfAguInwWL/edit
Color: Green
Old Testament: Isaiah 51:9–16
Psalm: Psalm 126; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: Colossians 1:9–14
Gospel: Matthew 9:18–26
Introit: Psalm 95:1–4; antiphon: vv. 6–7a
Gradual: Psalm 116:8, 1
Verse: Psalm 36:9
The Strength of the Lord Is Our Salvation from Sin, Death, and Darkness
A shroud of darkness engulfs us. Sin, death, and disease threaten to sever us from life’s fullest measure. Without new life in Christ Jesus, there would be no light to dissipate, dispel, or curb grief and sadness. But Jesus has qualified us “to share in the inheritance of the saints of light” delivering us from the dark domain (Col. 1:9–14). “I have put my words in your mouth and covered you in the shadow of my hand, . . . You are my people” (Is. 51:9–16). The presence of Christ, in word, wine, bread, and water, confronts our sinful nature with forgiveness. In the sacraments, God claims us to be His very own children, creating, and sustaining our faith. So in Christ, we humbly receive the words, “your faith has made you well” (Matt. 9:18–26). On the last day God will surely awaken us also from slumber in resurrection glory.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Rev. Sawyer Meyers; Iowa District East; Church Revitalization Seminar; Part 4 - The Revitalizing Pastor
Rev. Sawyer Meyers; Iowa District East; Church Revitalization Seminar; Part 3 - Tactics of Revitalization
Rev. Sawyer Meyers; Iowa District East; Church Revitalization Seminar; Part 2 - Principles of Revitalization
Rev. Sawyer Meyers; Iowa District East; Church Revitalization Seminar; Part 1 - Introduction and Theology of Revitalization
Revelation 4
Class Notes at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bnLzimYfwjp6mb6erh8JQ4GfAguInwWL/edit
Color: White
First Reading: Revelation 7:2–17
First Reading: Revelation 7:9–17
Psalm: Psalm 149; antiphon: v. 4
Epistle: 1 John 3:1–3
Gospel: Matthew 5:1–12
Introit: Psalm 31:1, 3, 5; antiphon: Revelation 7:14b
Gradual: Revelation 7:14b; Psalm 84:5
Verse: Hebrews 12:1a, 2a
Saints Are Blessed in the Eternal Presence of Christ
“A great multitude from all tribes and peoples and languages,” cry out “salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne” (Rev. 7:9–17). Faith-filled saints from every place and time with unified voices eternally magnify the Lamb of God. As His beloved children, we too, “shall see him as he is” (1 John 3:1–3). Joined with the throng of angels and a myriad of saints, we shall “serve him day and night in his temple” (Rev. 7:9–17). In our earthly tension vacillating between saint and sinner, faith and doubt, sacred and profane, we earnestly seek Jesus to calm our fears, comfort our spirits, and forgive our sins. The Holy Spirit, through faith in Christ propels us forward, fortifying us in Word and Sacrament, to our eternal home. In the midst of our constant struggle as believers, we need to be blessed. And so we are. The poor in spirit, the meek, the hungry, the thirsty, the merciful, the pure, and the persecuted are all blessed and we will most certainly inherit the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:1–12).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Revelation 3:9-22; Class Notes at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bnLzimYfwjp6mb6erh8JQ4GfAguInwWL/edit
Color: Red
First Reading: Revelation 14:6–7
Psalm: Psalm 46; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Romans 3:19–28
Gospel: Matthew 11:12–19
Gospel: John 8:31–36
Introit: Psalm 34:1–2, 11, 22; antiphon: Psalm 119:46
Gradual: Psalm 48:1a, 12–14a
Verse: Luke 12:32
The Son of God Has Set Us Free from Sin and Death by His Grace
“Wisdom is justified by her deeds” (Matt. 11:19), and the true Wisdom of God, Christ Jesus the incarnate Son, justifies us by His deeds. He prepares His way by the preaching of repentance, but He has suffered the violence of the Law and voluntarily handed Himself over to violent men, that we might eat and drink with Him in His Kingdom and “remain in the house forever” (John 8:35). For He is “a friend of tax collectors and sinners” (Matt. 11:19), and He has rescued us by His grace from the slavery of sin and death. By the proclamation of His eternal Gospel “to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people” (Rev. 14:6), “the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law” (Rom. 3:21), “that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus” (Rom. 3:26). And by hearing the Gospel of Christ Jesus, “whom God put forward as a propitiation by His blood, to be received by faith” (Rom. 3:25), “you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31–32).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Revelation 3:1-8
class notes
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bnLzimYfwjp6mb6erh8JQ4GfAguInwWL/edit
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 1:1—2:3
Psalm: Psalm 8; antiphon: v. 9
Epistle: Ephesians 6:10–17
Gospel: John 4:46–54
Introit: Psalm 119:1, 38–40; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Psalm 90:1–2
Verse: Psalm 125:1
God Declares Us Righteous Unsheathing His Word Against All Evil
“‘Let there be light,’ and there was light” (Gen. 1:1—2:3). The Father speaks, and it is so. His Word accomplishes what it says. He created all things out of nothing through His Son by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Father’s creative Word became flesh in Jesus Christ, that He might restore fallen creation and save fallen man. To the nobleman whose son was deathly ill, Jesus says, “Go; your son will live” (John 4:46–54). And in the very hour Jesus spoke, the nobleman’s son was made well. The Word of Christ still accomplishes what it says. In baptism, absolution, and the Lord’s Supper, He declares His life–giving forgiveness to you, and it is so. This saving Word of God is the sword of the Spirit by which you are able to fight off all the onslaughts of the devil (Eph. 6:10–17). “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.”
Color: Green
Old Testament: Isaiah 55:1–9
Psalm: Psalm 27:1–9; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: Ephesians 5:15–21
Gospel: Matthew 21:33–44
Gospel: Matthew 22:1–14
Introit: Psalm 48:1, 9–11; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Psalm 145:15–16
Verse: Psalm 130:1–2a
Jesus Invites Us to His Wedding Feast to Receive Abundant Righteousness
The Holy Spirit sounds forth the Gospel call: “See, I have prepared my dinner . . . Come to the wedding feast” (Matt. 22:1–14). But many reject this invitation in favor of worldly pursuits. And so the call goes out to others, both the good and the bad. For the wedding invitation is not based on the qualifications of those invited but on the basis of the merits and work of Christ. The feast is free: “He who has no money, come, buy and eat . . . delight yourselves in rich food.” (Is. 55:1–9). Those rejecting the Spirit’s work shall experience God’s wrath and judgment. Those who are not clothed in Christ’s righteousness shall be cast into outer darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Let us therefore seek the Lord while He may be found, for He will have mercy upon us. Let us redeem the time, being filled with the Spirit, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Eph 5:15–21).
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 28:10–17
Psalm: Psalm 84; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: Ephesians 4:22–28
Gospel: Matthew 9:1–8
Introit: Psalm 78:1–3, 4b; antiphon: Psalm 35:3b; 34:17a, 6b; 48:14a
Gradual: Psalm 141:1–2
Verse: Psalm 98:1a
Jesus’ Incarnation Secures for Us Life, Forgiveness, and Healing
The Lord does not require us to ascend to Him; in mercy He descends to us (Gen. 28:10–17). The ladder in Jacob’s dream was not for climbing; it was the means by which the Lord came to bless Jacob. This event finds its fulfillment in Christ who descended from His throne to save and bless us. By His incarnation He is the eternal bridge between heaven and earth. “The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” (Matt. 9:1–8). The Lord was present in the flesh to absolve the paralytic. Jesus also healed and restored this man’s body. “For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation” (Small Catechism). The Lord still has power on earth to forgive sins. In holy absolution He raises up the new man (Eph. 4:22–28) and bestows the healing medicine which will bring about our resurrection on the Last Day. Thus we say with Jacob, “This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!” (Gen. 28:17)
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Old Testament: Daniel 10:10–14; 12:1–3
Psalm: Psalm 91; antiphon: v. 11
Epistle: Revelation 12:7–12
Gospel: Matthew 18:1–11
Gospel: Luke 10:17–20
Introit: Psalm 103:20–22; antiphon: v. 1
Gradual: Psalm 91:11; 103:1
Verse: Revelation 12:11
Our Father in Heaven Protects His Children by Giving His Holy Angels Charge Over Them
We live in “a time of trouble” (Dan. 12:1), in the midst of great tribulation. Satan and his wicked angels have been thrown out of heaven and have come down to earth “in great wrath,” with woeful “temptations to sin” and with constant accusations (Rev. 12:8–12; Matt. 18:7). Even so, we are encouraged by the presence and protection of St. Michael and the holy angels, whom God sends to help us in the strife (Dan. 10:11–13). By “the authority of his Christ,” His holy angels guard and keep us in body and soul. These heavenly servants of God preserve His human messengers on earth, the ministers of “the blood of the Lamb,” against all the power of the enemy, for by “the word of their testimony,” the Church is saved and the devil is defeated (Rev. 12:10–11; Luke 10:18–19). By their preaching and Baptism of repentance, the old Adam and the old evil foe are “drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matt. 18:6). As God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, so are His people delivered and raised from the dust of the earth through the forgiveness of their sins (Dan. 12:1–3).
Color: Green
Old Testament: Proverbs 25:6–14
Psalm: Psalm 2; antiphon: v. 11
Epistle: Ephesians 4:1–6
Gospel: Luke 14:1–11
Introit: Psalm 119:1–2, 5–6; antiphon: vv. 137, 124
Gradual: Psalm 33:12, 6
Verse: Psalm 116:1
Whoever Humbles Himself Will Be Exalted
“Do not put yourself forward in the king’s presence” (Prov. 25:6–14). Rather, take the lowest position at the table. Humble yourself before Him. For your place is not for you to take but for Him to give. Conduct yourself with all lowliness and gentleness, bearing with one another in love (Eph. 4:1–6), that the King may give you glory in the presence of those at the table with you. “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 14:1–11). Is this not the way of Christ? He is the one who took the lowest place, who humbled Himself even to the point of death for us. He is now exalted to the highest place at the right hand of the Father that penitent believers may be exalted together with Him in the resurrection. To the humble at His Supper He says, “Friend, move up higher,” giving you His very body and blood for your forgiveness that you may ascend to take part in the great wedding feast which has no end.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission.
Color: Green
Old Testament: 1 Kings 17:17–24
Psalm: Psalm 30; antiphon: v. 5b
Epistle: Ephesians 3:13–21
Gospel: Luke 7:11–17
Introit: Psalm 86:1, 7, 12–13; antiphon: vv. 3, 5
Gradual: Psalm 102:15–16
Verse: Psalm 115:11
Jesus Calls forth Life from Death
A large funeral procession carrying the only son of a widow is confronted by another large procession, Jesus and His followers. Death and Life meet face to face at the gate of the city (Luke 7:11–17). Filled with compassion, Jesus comes into direct contact with our mortality in order to overcome it. He touches the coffin and speaks His creative words of life, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” Jesus does what is neither expected nor requested. For through Christ, God the Father “is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think” (Eph. 3:14–21). Jesus bore our death in His body that we may share in His resurrection. Even as Elijah stretched himself out three times over the Zarephath woman’s son (2 Kings 17:17–24), God stretched Himself out over us in the threefold application of His name in the baptismal water, breathing new and everlasting life into us. “To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: 1 Kings 17:8–16
Psalm: Psalm 146; antiphon: v. 9a
Epistle: Galatians 5:25—6:10
Gospel: Matthew 6:24–34
Introit: Psalm 86:4, 6, 15a, 16; antiphon: vv. 1a, 2b, 3
Gradual: Psalm 118:8–9
Verse: Psalm 95:1
Anxious Bondage vs. Confident Trust
“You cannot serve God and money” (Matt. 6:24–34), for they require two contrary forms of service. Worry is the worship given to the false god of mammon, an unbelieving anxiousness and focus on the things of this world. Faith is the worship of the true God, a confident trust that He is a loving Father who will care for all of our needs in both body and soul. The widow of Zarephath served God— that is, she believed the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah that the bin of flour would not be used up nor would the jar of oil run dry (1 Kings 17:8–16). He who feeds the birds and clothes the flowers will certainly provide for our daily needs. For He has already provided for our eternal needs, clothing us with Christ’s righteousness in Baptism and feeding us His body and blood for our forgiveness. With such confidence we are liberated from worry and freed to do good with our material resources, especially to those who are of the household of faith (Gal. 5:25–6:10).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Old Testament: Proverbs 4:10–23
Psalm: Psalm 119:9–16; antiphon: v. 12
Epistle: Galatians 5:16–24
Gospel: Luke 17:11–19
Introit: Psalm 84:1–2a, 4, 10b, 11b; antiphon: vv. 9–10a
Gradual: Psalm 92:1–2
Verse: Psalm 65:1
The Cry of Faith: Lord, Have Mercy
The ten lepers cried out from a distance, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” (Luke 17:11–19). Their condition cut them off from God and others. So also do the works of the flesh cut us off from God and others. “Those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Gal. 5:16–24). Thus we cry out with the lepers, “Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy; Lord, have mercy,” eagerly seeking His good gifts. Jesus said to the lepers, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. So too, we walk by faith and not by sight, being confident of Jesus’ help before we see any evidence of it, trusting that Jesus’ cleansing words of forgiveness will restore us to wholeness in the resurrection. Let us be as the one leper who returned to the true High Priest to give Him thanks and glory. For Jesus bore our infirmities in His sacrifice at Calvary. His words are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh (Prov. 4:10–23).
Old Testament: 2 Chronicles 28:8–15
Psalm: Psalm 32; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: Galatians 3:15–22
Gospel: Luke 10:23–37
Introit: Psalm 74:1–2, 19b, 21b; antiphon: vv. 20a, 21a, 22a, 23a
Gradual: Psalm 77:14–15
Verse: Psalm 88:1
Jesus Is Our Good Samaritan
The Law cannot help us or give us life. Rather, it confines everyone under sin as wounded and naked before God (Gal. 3:15–22). So it is that two figures of the Law, the priest and the Levite, passed by the injured man on the side of the road (Luke 10:23–37). Only the promised Seed of Abraham can rescue us and make us righteous before God. Only the Samaritan, our Lord Jesus, had compassion, as did the Samaritans of old (2 Chronicles 28:8–15). He came down to us in our lost and dying condition, pouring on the oil and wine of the Sacraments. He placed us on His own animal, bearing our sin and brokenness in His body on the cross to restore us. Jesus brought us to the inn, that is, the Church, and gave the innkeeper two denarii, that His double forgiveness might continue to be ministered to us. In this way the Lord, by whose Law we are torn and stricken, heals us and revives us by His Gospel and raises us up with Himself.
LCMS Pastor Sawyer Meyers presents on Lutheranism to Immanuel Baptist Church - Olive Branch, MS
Color: Green
Old Testament: Isaiah 29:17–24
Psalm: Psalm 146; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 3:4–11
Epistle: Romans 10:9–17
Gospel: Mark 7:31–37
Introit: Psalm 70:2b, 4a, 5b; antiphon: vv. 1–2a
Gradual: Psalm 34:1–2
Verse: Psalm 81:1
Faith Comes from Hearing
A man who was deaf and therefore also had an impediment in his speech was brought to Jesus (Mark 7:31–37). In the same way, all are by nature deaf toward God and therefore also unable to confess the faith rightly. For “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Rom. 10:9–17). Jesus put His fingers into the man’s ears, and He spat and touched His tongue. Even so in Holy Baptism, water sanctified by the words of Jesus’ mouth is applied to us; and the finger of God, that is, the life–giving Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 3:4–11) is put into our ears in the hearing of the baptismal Gospel. Jesus’ sighing “Ephphatha” opened the man’s ears, and his tongue was loosed to speak plainly as Isaiah prophesied of the Messiah, “In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book” (Is. 29:18–24) So also, He who sighed and breathed His last on the cross for us has given us to hear and believe in Him and has opened our lips that our mouths may declare His praise.
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 4:1–15
Psalm: Psalm 50:7–23; antiphon: v. 14
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:1–10
Epistle: Ephesians 2:1–10
Gospel: Luke 18:9–14
Introit: Psalm 68:1, 3, 7a, 10b, 19; antiphon: vv. 5b, 6a, 35b
Gradual: Psalm 28:7b, 1a, 2a
Verse: Psalm 90:1
The Lord Lifts Up the Lowly
“And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard” (Gen. 4:1–15). For unlike Abel, Cain’s offering did not proceed from a heart that revered and trusted in the Lord. Thus, the lowly tax collector who prayed, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” was the one who went down to his house justified before God, not the respectable, outwardly righteous Pharisee who trusted in himself and his own good living (Luke 18:9–14). “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph. 2:1–10). The one who penitently despairs of his own righteousness and relies completely on the atoning mercy of God in Christ is the one who is declared righteous. For Christ died for our sins and rose again the third day (1 Cor. 15:1–10). Therefore, “everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Old Testament: Jeremiah 8:4–12
Old Testament: Jeremiah 7:1–11
Psalm: Psalm 92; antiphon: v. 4
Epistle: Romans 9:30—10:4
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 12:1–11
Gospel: Luke 19:41–48
Introit: Psalm 55:1, 4–5, 16; antiphon: vv. 16a, 17b, 18a, 22a
Gradual: Psalm 17:8, 2
Verse: Psalm 88:1
Jesus Weeps for Jerusalem
Our Lord wept over Jerusalem for the destruction that would soon come upon her. For she did not recognize the time of God’s visitation in Christ, who had come to bring her peace (Luke 19:41–48). Through His prophets God had consistently called His people to turn from their deceit and false worship. “But My people do not know the judgments of the Lord” (Jer. 8:4–12). They sought to establish their own righteousness rather than receive Christ’s righteousness through faith (Rom. 9:30–10:4). So it was that God was in His temple to cleanse it, a precursor to the once-for-all cleansing from sin which He would accomplish in the temple of His own body on the cross. God grant us to know the things that make for our peace—His visitation in the Word and Sacraments—that by the Holy Spirit we may penitently confess “Jesus is Lord” (1 Cor. 12:1–11).
Color: Green
Old Testament: 2 Samuel 22:26–34
Psalm: Psalm 51:1–12; antiphon: v. 18
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 10:6–13
Gospel: Luke 16:1–13
Gospel: Luke 16:1–9
Introit: Psalm 54:1–3, 7; antiphon: vv. 4–5
Gradual: Psalm 8:1
Verse: Psalm 112:1
The Steward’s Shrewdness Sanctified
“The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness” (Luke 16:1–9). The steward’s shrewdness is praiseworthy for two reasons. First, he knew the master would be merciful. He trusted that the master would honor the debts he forgave in the master’s name. In the same way, though we have squandered our heavenly Father’s possessions in selfishness and sin, Jesus is the Steward who has canceled our debt, knowing that His forgiveness will be honored by the Father because of the holy cross. Secondly, the steward was shrewd in using oil and wheat to provide for his earthly welfare. So also do these earthly elements aid us when pressed into heavenly use in the anointing of baptism and the wheat of the Lord’s Supper. Those who have the Sacraments will have an eternal home when their earthly home fails. These provide us aid in times of temptation (1 Cor. 10:6–13). For the Lord is our strength and a shield to all who trust in Him (2 Sam. 22:26–34).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Jeremiah 23:16–29
Psalm: Psalm 26; antiphon: v. 12
Epistle: Romans 8:12–17
Second Reading: Acts 20:27–38
Gospel: Matthew 7:15–23
Introit: Psalm 48:1, 3, 11, 14; antiphon: vv. 9–10
Gradual: Psalm 31:2b, 1a
Verse: Psalm 78:1
Beware of False Prophets
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves” (Matt. 7:15). Deceit has its strength in masquerading as the truth. False prophets speak a vision of their own heart, not from the mouth of the Lord (Jer. 23:16–29). They deny the judgment of the Lord, speaking peace to the unrepentant, when in truth there is condemnation and wrath. “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Matt. 7:20). The “fruits” of a true prophet are not outward righteousness or success but faithfulness in proclaiming the Word of the Lord. This is the will of the Father in heaven, that pastors take heed to the flock, the Father’s adopted ones (Rom. 8:12–17), warning them against the wolves and their lies, and shepherding the Church of God which He purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:27–38). For indeed, the cross is that good tree bearing good fruit—namely, the body and blood of Christ, given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Exodus 20:1–17
Psalm: Psalm 19; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: Romans 6:3–11
Epistle: Romans 6:1–11
Gospel: Matthew 5:20–26
Gospel: Matthew 5:17–26
Introit: Psalm 28:1–2, 7; antiphon: vv. 8–9
Gradual: Psalm 90:13, 1, 2b
Verse: Psalm 31:1
Our Only Hope Is in Christ’s Righteousness
“Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matt 5:20). God demands nothing less than perfection and holiness from you in regard to His commandments (Ex. 20:1–17). Your only hope, then, is not in your own goodness but in the goodness of Christ, who did not come to destroy the Law and the Prophets, but to fulfill them for you. In Christ, your righteousness does indeed exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees. For you have been baptized into Christ’s death and your sinful nature crucified. Therefore, he who has died has been freed from sin (Rom. 6:1–11). You are now raised with Christ to walk in newness of life and to share in His resurrection on the Last Day. Christ has brought you through the baptismal sea “out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery” (Ex. 20:2). Therefore, “consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Rom. 6:11).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: 1 Kings 19:11–21
Psalm: Psalm 16; antiphon: v. 11
Epistle: 1 Peter 3:8–15
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:18–25
Gospel: Luke 5:1–11
Introit: Psalm 27:1a, 11–12, 14; antiphon: vv. 7, 9b
Gradual: Psalm 84:9, 8
Verse: Psalm 21:1
Jesus Makes Fishers of Men
The Lord called fishermen to be fishers of men (Luke 5:1–11). The net they would use is the message of the cross, which is foolishness and a stumbling block to the world (1 Cor. 1:18–25). The power of God to save is not in spectacular signs like wind and fire and earthquakes (1 Kings 19:11–21), nor is it to be found in human intelligence and wisdom. The power of God to save comes in the still, small voice of the preaching of Christ crucified. In worldly darkness the disciples could catch nothing. But in the light of Christ, whose Word was attached to the water, the boats were filled with fish. So it is that in Baptism you have been drawn in to the ship of the Church. Though the nets are breaking and some who hear the Word do not believe, pastors continue to cast the net of the Gospel and the Sacraments, that Christians may abide in the boat of the Church and that we may be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:8–15).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 50:15–21
Psalm: Psalm 138; antiphon: v. 8b
Epistle: Romans 8:18–23
Epistle: Romans 12:14–21
Gospel: Luke 6:36–42
Introit: Psalm 27:3–4a, 5; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Gradual: Psalm 79:9–10a
Verse: Psalm 9:4b, 9
Christ’s Mercy Is Ours to Show to Others
“Be merciful, even as your Father also is merciful” (Luke 6:36–42). The old Adam in us wants to condemn and seek vengeance. But the Lord says, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay” (Rom. 12:14–21). To condemn, to avenge yourself, is to put yourself in the place of God. It is to fail to trust that He is just. Ultimately, it is to disbelieve that Jesus suffered the full vengeance for all wrongs. Only Christ is merciful as the Father is merciful. He is the one who overcame all evil with the good of His cross, forgiving even His executioners. Jesus is our Joseph, who comforts us with words of pardon and reconciliation (Gen. 50:15–21). He is the One who does not condemn but gives life that runs over. Only through faith in Christ are we sons of the Father—being merciful, forgiving, doing good to our enemies. For in Christ we know that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Rom. 8:8–13).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Micah 7:18–20
Psalm: Psalm 103:1–13; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: 1 Timothy 1:12–17
Epistle: 1 Peter 5:6–11
Gospel: Luke 15:1–10
Gospel: Luke 15:11–32
Introit: Psalm 25:1–2a, 5b, 15, 20; antiphon: vv. 16, 18
Gradual: Psalm 55:22a, 16, 18a
Verse: Psalm 18:1–2a
Jesus Receives Sinners
“This man receives sinners and eats with them” (Luke 15:2). The Pharisees’ statement of judgment against Jesus is in fact a proclamation of Gospel truth. For our God is one who delights in mercy, who casts all our sins into the depths of the sea through the cross (Micah 7:18–20). “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Tim. 1:15). Those who refuse to be counted as sinners also refuse Jesus who came only for sinners. Those like the older son (Luke 15:11–32), who think they are righteous of themselves, will not join in the heavenly celebration over the sinner who repents and so remain outside of the Father’s house. Let us therefore be on guard against self–righteously trusting in our own merits. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you” (1 Peter 5:6). Rejoice that Jesus receives sinners like us and that He still sits at table with us in the Holy Supper, bestowing His forgiveness and life.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Proverbs 9:1–10
Psalm: Psalm 34:12–22; antiphon: v. 11
Epistle: Ephesians 2:13–22
Epistle: 1 John 3:13–18
Gospel: Luke 14:15–24
Introit: Psalm 18:1–2a, 27, 30a, 49; antiphon: vv. 18b–19
Gradual: Psalm 120:1–2
Verse: Psalm 7:17
The Gospel Call Goes Out to All
Wisdom has issued an invitation to the divine feast: “Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight” (Prov. 9:5–6). This is the call of the Spirit of Christ to believe the Gospel and to receive His saving gifts in the Holy Supper. Many make excuses and reject this invitation, even as the Jews did in the days of Jesus, yet the Master’s house will be filled. The Gospel call therefore goes out to the lowly and despised, into the highways, even to all the Gentiles (Luke 14:15–24). For “you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Eph. 2:13–22). In Christ, believing Jews and Gentiles are no longer strangers but fellow members of the household of God. The enmity of class and race is put to death through the cross. Having been reconciled in the one Body of Christ, we are enabled to love one another (1 John 3:13–18) as we await the marriage feast of the Lamb in His kingdom which will have no end.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Green
Old Testament: Genesis 15:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 33:12–22; antiphon: v. 20
Epistle: 1 John 4:16–21
Gospel: Luke 16:19–31
Introit: Psalm 13:1–4; antiphon: vv. 5–6
Gradual: Psalm 41:4, 1
Verse: Psalm 7:1
Faith Trusts in Christ for Life Eternal
When the beggar Lazarus died, he was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. For he was truly Abraham’s seed. Like Abraham, he believed in the Lord, and the Lord “counted it to him as righteousness” (Gen. 15:6). The name Lazarus means “God is my help.” The unnamed rich man, on the other hand, did not love and trust in God. For he evidently cared little for the beggar at his gate. And “he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen” (1 John 4:20). He who loved and trusted in possessions and prestige died and was in torments in Hades (Luke 16:19–31). Repentance and faith are worked only through Moses and the prophets—that is, the Word of God, for it points us to Christ. Only through His death and resurrection are we brought the comfort of life everlasting.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Isaiah 6:1–7
Psalm: Psalm 29; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: Romans 11:33–36
Gospel: John 3:1–17
Gospel: John 3:1–15
Introit: Psalm 8:1–2a, 3–5; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Liturgical Text
Verse: Liturgical Text
The Holy Trinity Reveals Himself to Sinners
When Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he cried out “Woe is me!” For the sinner cannot stand in the presence of a holy God and live (Is. 6:1–7). But God the Father lifted up His Son Jesus for us on the cross, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. This eternal life of Christ is given us according to the Holy Spirit’s good pleasure in Baptism. “Unless one is born [again] of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). To sinners in fear of death, the messengers of God place on our lips the living body and blood of Christ and speak His words of absolution, “Your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for” (Is. 6:7). Having received forgiveness and life from the Father through the Son by the Holy Spirit, we join with the angels in praising the blessed Trinity, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts!” (Is. 6:3). “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen” (Rom. 11:33–36).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Red
Old Testament: Genesis 11:1–9
Psalm: Psalm 143; antiphon: v. 11
Second Reading: Acts 2:1–21
Gospel: John 14:23–31
Introit: Psalm 68:1, 4a, c, 11a, 33b, 35a; antiphon: Liturgical Text; Psalm 68:3
Verse: Psalm 104:30; Liturgical Text
The Holy Spirit Gives Peace
Following the flood, Noah’s descendants failed to spread out and fill the earth as God had spoken. Rather, they exalted themselves; with “one language and the same words” (Gen. 11:1) they spoke proudly and arrogantly. The Lord humbled them by confusing “the language of all the earth,” dividing and dispersing the people (Gen. 11:9). That dispersal was reversed on Pentecost Day (the fiftieth day of Easter), when God caused the one Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to be preached in a multitude of languages. “At this sound the multitude came together” (Acts 2:6), for the preaching of Christ is the primary work of the Holy Spirit, whereby He gathers people from all nations into one Church. The Holy Spirit teaches and brings to our remembrance the words of Jesus, which are the words of the Father who sent Him. These words bestow forgiveness and peace to those who keep and hold on to them in love for Jesus. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: 2 Kings 2:5–15
Psalm: Psalm 110; antiphon: v. 1
Second Reading: Acts 1:1–11
Gospel: Mark 16:14–20
Gospel: Luke 24:44–53
Introit: Psalm 47:1–2, 5, 8; antiphon: Acts 1:11
Verse: Psalm 47:5; 68:18a
Jesus Is Ascended, but Not Absent
On the fortieth day after His resurrection, our Lord ascended to the right hand of the Father. But although Jesus is hidden from your eyes, He is not absent from you. For He now fills all things in heaven and on earth. He continues “to do and to teach” (Acts 1:1), preaching repentance and forgiveness of sins through those sent in His name (Mark 16:14–20; Luke 24:44–53), giving you His true body and blood in the Supper. Jesus is your great Elijah who pours out on you a double portion of His Spirit in the Word and the Sacraments (2 Kings 2:5–15). He is Lord over all things for the sake of the Church. He whom heaven cannot contain has raised your human nature to share fully in the glory of God. You who believe and are baptized into Christ’s body are already sitting in the heavenly places; for you are in Him who is at the Father’s right hand. When He comes again in the clouds on the Last Day, you also will appear with Him in glory.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Old Testament: Numbers 21:4–9
Psalm: Psalm 107:1–9; antiphon: v. 19
Epistle: 1 Timothy 2:1–6
Epistle: James 1:22–27
Gospel: John 16:23–33
Gospel: John 16:23–30
Introit: Psalm 66:1–2a, 17, 19–20; antiphon: Isaiah 48:20b
Verse: Liturgical Text; John 16:28
The Father Answers Our Prayers Because of Jesus
“Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you” (John 16:23). To pray in Jesus’ name is to pray as one who has been baptized. For it is in the water that He put His name upon you, claiming you as His own, making you a son of God with access to the Father. By His incarnation and crucifixion, our Lord Jesus broke through the barrier of sin which separated us from God, opening a portal to the Father. To pray in Jesus’ name is to pray with faith in Him as the one Mediator between God and men, who gave Himself a ransom for all (1 Tim. 2:1–6). Like Moses in the wilderness, Jesus is our go-between and intercessor before the throne of heaven. He was lifted up for us on the cross that we might be saved and restored to fellowship with the Father (Num. 21:4–9). Looking into this perfect teaching of liberty (James 1:22–27) we pray with boldness and confidence as dear children of God.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Jesus Promises to Send His Holy Spirit, the Helper
Though Jesus has departed from us visibly to the right hand of the Father who sent Him, yet this is to our advantage. For Jesus—who is Lord over all creation, who intercedes for us before the Father, who is preparing a place for us in heaven—has sent the Helper, the Spirit of Truth (John 16:5–15). “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights” through Jesus Christ (James 1:17). The Holy Spirit helps us by taking what is Christ’s and declaring it to us. In the Word of truth, the Spirit works repentance and delivers to us the forgiveness of sins, the righteousness of Christ, and victory over the devil. For the ruler of this world is judged and defeated by the cross. Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, we have been brought forth to new life in Him who is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. Confident of our resurrection with Christ we confess, “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid” (Is. 12:2).
Old Testament: Ezekiel 34:11–16
Psalm: Psalm 23; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 Peter 2:21–25
Gospel: John 10:11–16
Introit: Psalm 33:1, 18–20; antiphon: vv. 5b, 6a
Verse: Luke 24:35b; John 10:14
The Good Shepherd Cares for His Sheep
Our Lord Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11–16). He is not like the hireling, who cares nothing for the sheep and only for himself, who flees when he sees the wolf coming. Rather, Jesus is the Good Shepherd who seeks out His scattered sheep to deliver them (Ezek. 34:11–16). He gathers them and feeds them in rich pasture. He binds up the broken and strengthens the sick. He lays down His life for wandering and wayward sheep. On the cross, Christ bore in His body the attacks of the predators of sin and death and the devil for you that you might be saved. He now lives to restore your soul in the still waters of baptism, to lead you in the paths of righteousness by the voice of His Gospel, to prepare the table of His holy supper before you, that you may dwell in the house of the Lord forever (Psalm 23). “For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls” (1 Peter 2:25).
Old Testament: Ezekiel 37:1–14
Psalm: Psalm 33; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 John 5:4–10
Gospel: John 20:19–31
Introit: Psalm 81:1, 7a, 10, 16b; antiphon: 1 Peter 2:2a
Verse: Matthew 28:7b; John 20:26a, c
The Wounds of Christ Give Us Life
“For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood” (1 John 5:7). These three point to Christ and flow from Christ. Jesus shows His disciples His hands side, from which blood and water flowed, saying “Peace be with you.” He presents the wounds which turn our fear to gladness and which restore us to the Father. Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:23). His breath, His words are Spirit and life. They raise up our dry, dead bones and give us new and everlasting life (Ezek. 37:1–14). Christ now gives His ministers to speak His forgiving, Spirit-filled words to the penitent in His stead. Our Lord continues to come to His people, presenting His wounds to us in the Sacraments of water and blood. He bids us to touch His side at His table, to receive His risen body and blood in true faith, that believing we may have life in His name.
Color: White
Old Testament: Job 19:23–27
Psalm: Psalm 118:15–29; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 15:51–57
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 5:6–8
Gospel: Mark 16:1–8
Introit: Psalm 8:1, 5–6, 9; antiphon: Luke 24:5b–6b
Gradual: Psalm 118:24, 1
Verse: 1 Corinthians 5:7b–8a, c
Christ’s Resurrection Means That We Will One Day Be Raised
“Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed” (1 Cor. 5:7). By the shed blood of Christ, the Lamb of God, eternal death has passed over us. Now we pass with Christ through death into life everlasting. For Christ the crucified One is risen! The stone has been rolled away from the tomb, revealing that the tomb could not hold Him (Mark 16:1–8). Now our Redeemer lives eternally to save us from sin and Satan and the grave, and we can live in the sure hope of our own bodily resurrection with Christ. “After my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God” (Job 19:26). Feasting on the living Christ, who is our meat and drink indeed, we boldly say: “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? . . . But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:54–55, 57).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Black
Old Testament: Isaiah 52:13—53:12
Psalm: Psalm 22; antiphon: v. 1
Psalm: Psalm 31; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:14–21
Gospel: John 18:1—19:42
Introit: Psalm 102:1–2, 12; antiphon: Isaiah 53:4a, 5a, 6a, c
Gradual: Isaiah 53:1, 11b
Tract: Psalm 140:1–7, 12–13
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the world. “Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and carries our sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement, so that “with His stripes we are healed” (Is. 53:4–5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). For in Christ, “God was reconciling the whole world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them” (2 Cor. 5:19).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: Black
Old Testament: Isaiah 52:13—53:12
Psalm: Psalm 22; antiphon: v. 1
Psalm: Psalm 31; antiphon: v. 1
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 5:14–21
Gospel: John 18:1—19:42
Introit: Psalm 102:1–2, 12; antiphon: Isaiah 53:4a, 5a, 6a, c
Gradual: Isaiah 53:1, 11b
Tract: Psalm 140:1–7, 12–13
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the world. “Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and carries our sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement, so that “with His stripes we are healed” (Is. 53:4–5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). For in Christ, “God was reconciling the whole world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them” (2 Cor. 5:19).
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Color: White
Old Testament: Exodus 12:1–14
Old Testament: Exodus 24:3–11
Psalm: Psalm 116:12–19; antiphon: v. 17
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 11:23–32
Gospel: John 13:1–15
Gospel: John 13:1–15, 34–35
Introit: Psalm 67:1–3, 6b–7; antiphon: Galatians 6:14b; Liturgical Text
Gradual: Psalm 111:4–5
Tract: Psalm 111:4–5; John 6:55–56
Let Us Love One Another, as Christ Jesus Has Loved Us
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes” (1 Cor. 11:26). By eating His body and drinking His blood, we proclaim to all the world that Jesus is, indeed, our Passover Lamb (Ex. 12:1–14), who was sacrificed for us on Calvary. In Christ, the Lord remembers us in mercy and remembers our sin no more; He forgives us all our iniquity. With such love, he “loved His own who were in the world,” and even loves us “to the end” (John 13:1). As He washes us and feeds us in love, let us love one another, just as He has loved us (John 13:34).
Old Testament: Zechariah 9:9–12
Psalm: Psalm 31:9–16; antiphon: v. 5
Psalm: Psalm 118:19–29; antiphon: v. 26
Epistle: Philippians 2:5–11
Gospel: Matthew 26:1—27:66
Gospel: Matthew 27:11–54
Introit: Psalm 22:1, 7–8, 11; antiphon: vv. 19, 21
Gradual: Psalm 73:23b–24, 1
Tract: Psalm 22:1, 4–5
The Cross and Passion of Our Lord Are the Hour of His Glory
“Behold, your King is coming to you . . . humble and mounted on a donkey” (Zech. 9:9–12; Mt. 21:1–9). Our Lord rides in this humble fashion because He is entering Jerusalem to humble Himself even to the point of death on a cross (Phil. 2:5–11). His kingly crown will not be made of gold but of thorns, the sign of sin’s curse. For His royal reign is displayed in bearing this curse for His people, saving us from our enemies by sacrificing His own life. The sinless One takes the place of the sinner so that the sinner can be freed and bear the name “Barabbas,” “son of the Father” (Matthew 26 and 27). It is at the name of this exalted Savior, Jesus, that we bow in humble faith. With the centurion who declared, “Truly this was the Son of God!” (Mt. 27:54), we are also given to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Phil. 2:11).
Old Testament: Genesis 22:1–14
Psalm: Psalm 43; antiphon: v. 5
Epistle: Hebrews 9:11–15
Gospel: John 8:42–59
Gospel: John 8:46–59
Introit: Psalm 43:3–5; antiphon: vv. 1–2a
Gradual: Psalm 143:9a, 10a; 18:48a, c
Tract: Psalm 129:1–4
Jesus Is Our Redemption
In the temple Jesus said, “If anyone keeps my word, he will never see death” (John 8:51). For Jesus came to taste death for us—to drink the cup of suffering to the dregs in order that we might be released from its power. Clinging to His life-giving words, we are delivered from death’s sting and its eternal judgment. Christ is our High Priest, who entered the Most Holy Place and with His own blood obtained everlasting redemption for His people (Heb. 9:11–15). He is the One who was before Abraham was, and yet is his descendant. He is the promised Son who carries the wood up the mountain for the sacrifice, who is bound and laid upon the altar of the cross. He is the ram who is offered in our place, who is willingly caught in the thicket of our sin, and who wears the crown of thorns upon His head (Gen. 22:1–14). Though Jesus is dishonored by the sons of the devil, He is vindicated by the Father through the cross.
Old Testament: Isaiah 49:8–13
Old Testament: Exodus 16:2–21
Psalm: Psalm 132:8–18; antiphon: v. 13
Second Reading: Acts 2:41–47
Epistle: Galatians 4:21–31
Gospel: John 6:1–15
Introit: Psalm 122:1–2, 6, 8; antiphon: Isaiah 66:10a, 11a
Gradual: Psalm 122:1, 7
Tract: Psalm 125:1–2, 5b
The Lord Feeds His People
The Lord provided bread from heaven for His people in the wilderness (Ex. 16:2–21). Now He who is Himself the living bread from heaven miraculously provides bread for the five thousand (John 6:1–15). This takes place near the time of the Passover, after a great multitude had followed Jesus across the sea, and when He went up on a mountain. Seen in this way, Jesus is our new and greater Moses, who releases us from the bondage of Mount Sinai and makes us free children of the promise (Gal. 4:21–31). Five loaves become twelve baskets—that is, the five books of Moses find their goal and fulfillment in Christ, whose people continue steadfastly in the doctrine and fellowship of the twelve apostles, and in the breaking and receiving of the bread of life, which is the body of Christ together with His precious blood, and in the prayers (Acts 2:41–47). So it is that God’s people “shall not hunger or thirst” (Is. 49:8–13). For He abundantly provides for us in both body and soul.
Old Testament: Exodus 8:16–24
Old Testament: Jeremiah 26:1–15
Psalm: Psalm 136:1–16; antiphon: v. 26
Psalm: Psalm 4; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: Ephesians 5:1–9
Gospel: Luke 11:14–28
Introit: Psalm 25:1–2, 17–18, 20; antiphon: vv. 15–16
Gradual: Psalm 9:19, 3
Tract: Psalm 123:1–3a
Jesus Overcomes the Strong Man
Jeremiah was charged with speaking evil when he spoke the Word of the Lord (Jer. 26:1–15). So also, Jesus is accused of doing evil when in fact He is doing good. He casts out a demon from a mute man so that he is able to speak (Luke 11:14–28). But some said Jesus did this by the power of Beelzebub, Satan. Like Pharaoh of old, their hearts were hard (Ex. 8:16–24). They did not recognize the finger of God, the power of the Holy Spirit at work in and through Jesus. Jesus is the Stronger Man who overcomes the strong man. He takes the devil’s armor of sin and death and destroys it from the inside out by the holy cross. He exorcizes and frees us by water and the Word. We were once darkness, but now we are light in Christ the Lord (Eph. 5:1–9). As children of light, our tongues are loosed to give thanks to Him who saved us.
Old Testament: Genesis 32:22–32
Psalm: Psalm 121; antiphon: vv. 1–2
Epistle: Romans 5:1–5
Epistle: 1 Thessalonians 4:1–7
Gospel: Matthew 15:21–28
Introit: Psalm 25:1–2a, 7–8, 11; antiphon: vv. 6, 2b, 22
Gradual: Psalm 25:17–18
Tract: Psalm 106:1–4
Holding God to His Word
Jacob wrestled with God; he would not let Him go until he received a blessing from Him (Gen. 32:22–32). So it was with the Canaanite woman. Though Jesus seemed to ignore and reject her, she continued to call upon His name and look to Him for help (Mt. 15:21–28). Even when the Lord called her a little dog, she held on to Him in faith and would not let Him wriggle out of His words: “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” This Gentile woman shows herself to be a true Israelite, who struggles with God and man in Christ and prevails. “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire” (Mt. 15:27–28). This is the sanctifying will of God (1 Thess. 4:1–7)—to test your faith in order that it may be refined and strengthened. For tribulation produces perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope. And hope in Christ does not disappoint (Rom. 5:1–5).
Old Testament: Genesis 3:1–21
Psalm: Psalm 32; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 6:1–10
Gospel: Matthew 4:1–11
Introit: Psalm 91:1–2, 9–10, 13; antiphon: vv. 15a, c, 16
Gradual: Psalm 91:11–12
Tract: Psalm 91:1, 4a, 15a, 16
Jesus Does Battle in Our Place
In the Garden, man exalts himself to be a god in place of God (Gen. 3:1–21). He succumbs to the temptation of the devil, and eating of the forbidden fruit, he receives death. But in the sin-cursed wilderness, God humbles Himself to become man in place of man (Mt. 4:1–11). He does not eat but fasts and bears the onslaughts of the devil for us that we may be restored to life. Jesus stands as David in our place to do battle against the Goliath, Satan (1 Samuel 17:40–51). Though outwardly Jesus appears weak, yet He comes in the name of the Lord of hosts. He draws from the five smooth stones of the books of Moses and slings the Word of God. The stone sinks into the forehead, and the enemy falls. In Christ we are victorious over the devil. Let us therefore not receive the grace of God in vain (2 Cor. 6:1–10), but seeing that we have a great High Priest, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain help in time of need (Heb 4:14–16).
Old Testament: Jonah 3:1–10
Psalm: Psalm 51:1–13; antiphon: v. 17
Epistle: 2 Peter 1:2–11
Gospel: Matthew 6:16–21
Introit: Psalm 57:1–3a, c; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Old Testament: 1 Samuel 16:1–13
Old Testament: Isaiah 35:3–7
Psalm: Psalm 89:18–29; antiphon: v. 20
Psalm: Psalm 146; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 13:1–13
Gospel: Luke 18:31–43
Introit: Psalm 31:1, 5, 9, 16; antiphon: vv. 2b–3
Gradual: Psalm 77:14–15
Tract: Psalm 100:1–3
Faith Alone
The seeing are blind, while the one who is blind can see (Luke 18:31–43). Jesus tells the twelve that He is going up to Jerusalem to suffer and die and rise again, but they cannot understand or grasp what He is saying. The meaning of His words is hidden from their sight. However, as Jesus makes His way up to Jerusalem, a blind man calls out to Him for mercy. This blind man sees that Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior, for he calls Him “Son of David.” Indeed, Jesus is the Lord’s anointed, the keeper of sheep (1 Sam. 16:1–13) who goes to lay down His life for the sheep. He is the incarnate love of the Father who suffers long and is kind, who is not puffed up, who never fails us (1 Cor. 13:1–13). Jesus opens the eyes of the blind (Is. 35:3–7) to see Him not according to outward appearances of lowliness, but according to His heart of mercy and compassion. Those who behold Him thus by faith follow Him to the cross through death into life.
Old Testament: Isaiah 55:10–13
Psalm: Psalm 84; antiphon: v. 4
Epistle: Hebrews 4:9–13
Epistle: 2 Corinthians 11:19—12:9
Gospel: Luke 8:4–15
Introit: Psalm 44:1–2, 7–8; antiphon: vv. 23, 25a, 26a
Gradual: Psalm 83:18, 13
Tract: Psalm 60:1–2, 5
Scripture Alone
The Sower sows the seed of His Word (Luke 8:4–15). This Word is living and powerful (Heb. 4:9–13) to conceive new life in those who hear it. But the planting of Christ is attacked by the devil, the world, and the flesh. Satan snatches the Word away from hard hearts. The riches and pleasures of this life choke off faith. Shallow and emotional belief withers in time of temptation and trouble. But see how Christ bears this attack for us! Christ’s cross was planted in the hard and rocky soil of Golgotha. A crown of thorns was placed upon His head. Satan and His demons hellishly hounded and devoured Him. Yet, through His dying and rising again, He destroyed these enemies of ours. Jesus is Himself the Seed which fell to the ground and died in order that it might sprout forth to new life and produce much grain. In Him, the weak are strong (2 Cor. 11:19–12:9). He is the Word of the Father which does not return void (Is. 55:10–13) but yields a harvest hundredfold.
Old Testament: Exodus 17:1–7
Psalm: Psalm 95:1–9; antiphon: v. 6
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 9:24—10:5
Gospel: Matthew 20:1–16
Introit: Psalm 18:1–2a, 27, 32, 49; antiphon: vv. 5–6a
Gradual: Psalm 9:9–10, 18–19a
Tract: Psalm 130:1–4
Grace Alone
The people of Israel contended with the Lord in the wilderness (Ex. 17:1–7). They were dissatisfied with His provision. In the same way, the first laborers in the vineyard complained against the landowner for the wage he provided them (Matt. 20:1–16). They charged him with being unfair, but in reality he was being generous. For the Lord does not wish to deal with us on the basis of what we deserve but on the basis of His abounding grace in Christ. The first—those who rely on their own merits—will be last. “For they were overthrown in the wilderness” (1 Cor. 10:5). But the last, those who rely on Christ, will be first. For Christ is the Rock (1 Cor. 9:24–10:5). He is the One who was struck and from whose side blood and water flowed that we may be cleansed of our sin.
Jesus Is Transfigured and Manifests His Glory
The Lord appeared to Moses in the light of the burning bush (Ex. 3:1–14). Later Moses’ face would shine with the light of God’s glory when he came down from Mount Sinai (Ex. 34:29–35). At the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared with the One who is the Light of Light Himself (Matt. 17:1–9). Jesus’ glory as God shines with brilliant splendor in and through His human nature. By this epiphany, our Lord confirmed the prophetic word (2 Pet. 1:16–21), revealing that He is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. He manifested His majesty as the eternal Son of the Father, and He wonderfully foreshowed our adoption as sons (Collect). We who have been baptized into Christ’s body are given a glimpse of the glory that we will share with Him in the resurrection on the Last Day.
Old Testament: Isaiah 42:1–7
Psalm: Psalm 85; antiphon: v. 9
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 1:26–31
Gospel: Matthew 3:13–17
Introit: Psalm 89:1, 26–28; antiphon: Liturgical Text; Psalm 89:20
Gradual: Psalm 72:18–19
Verse: Psalm 143:10
In His Baptism, Jesus Takes His Place with Sinners
Our Lord Jesus is baptized “to fulfill all righteousness” (Matt. 3:13–17). He partakes of a baptism for sinners in order that He might be our substitute and bear the judgment we deserve. In the water, Jesus trades places with us. Our sin becomes His sin. His righteousness becomes our righteousness. Our glory, therefore, is in “Christ Jesus, who became to us . . . righteousness and sanctification and redemption” (1 Cor. 1:26–31). Jesus is the “chosen” One sent from the Father to release us from the prison house of sin and death (Is. 42:1–7). Baptized into Christ, we also become the chosen ones, beloved of the Father. We cross the Jordan with Jesus (Joshua 3) through death into the promised land of new life with God.
Finishing the Vatican II discussion and beginning the the section on Living as Lutherans
Old Testament: Isaiah 60:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 24; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Ephesians 3:1–12
Gospel: Matthew 2:1–12
Introit: Psalm 72:1–2, 10–11; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Isaiah 60:6b, 1
Verse: Matthew 2:2b
The Lord God Is Manifested in the Incarnate Son
The Feast of the Epiphany centers in the visit of the Magi from the East. In that respect, it is a “Thirteenth Day” of Christmas; and yet, it also marks the beginning of a new liturgical season. While Christmas has focused on the Incarnation of our Lord—that is, on God becoming flesh—the season of Epiphany emphasizes the manifestation or self-revelation of God in that same flesh of Christ. For the Lord Himself has entered our darkness and rises upon us with the brightness of His true light (Is. 60:1–2). He does so chiefly by His Word of the Gospel, which He causes to be preached within His Church on earth—not only to the Jews but also to Gentiles (Eph. 3:8–10). As the Magi were guided by the promises of Holy Scripture to find and worship the Christ Child with His mother in the house (Matt. 2:5–11), so does He call disciples from all nations by the preaching of His Word, to find and worship Him within His Church (Is. 60:3–6). With gold they confess His royalty; with incense, His deity; and with myrrh, His priestly sacrifice (Matt. 2:11).
Color: White
Old Testament: 2 Samuel 7:1–16
Old Testament: Isaiah 11:1–5
Psalm: Psalm 89:1–8; antiphon: v. 8
Epistle: Galatians 4:1–7
Gospel: Luke 2:33–40
Gospel: Luke 2:22–40
Introit: Psalm 93:1, 3–4; antiphon: vv. 5, 2
Gradual: Psalm 45:2a, 1b
Verse: Psalm 93:1
The Seed of David Comes to His Temple
A Rod has come forth from the stem of Jesse (Is. 11:1–5)—the Seed of David whose kingdom shall be established forever (2 Sam. 7:1–16). In the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son Jesus to redeem us from the judgment of the Law (Gal. 4:1–7). Now He is presented in the temple in fulfillment of the Law and revealed to be “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (Luke 2:22–40). Christ has enlightened us in baptism, giving us to be adopted as sons of God and heirs of eternal life. Receiving the Holy Sacrament of His body and blood, we are prepared to depart this world in peace, for our eyes have seen the salvation of God in Him.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Old Testament: Exodus 40:17–21, 34–38
Psalm: Psalm 2; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Titus 3:4–7
Gospel: John 1:1–18
Gospel: John 1:1–14
Introit: Psalm 98:1–4; antiphon: Isaiah 9:6
Gradual: Psalm 118:26a, 27a, 23
Verse: Liturgical Text
The Living and Life-Giving Word of God Dwells among Us in the Flesh
In the beginning God created all things through His Word, His Son. But man fell into sin, and with man all creation was cursed. Therefore, God spoke His Word again, this time into the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary. The glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle of our human nature (Ex. 40:17–21, 34–38). “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:1–14). The Son of God took on our flesh and blood and died on the cross in order that we might receive the right to become the children of God through faith. Baptized into Christ’s body, we are made partakers of a new Genesis, “the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:4–7). In Christ, the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man has truly appeared.
Old Testament: Isaiah 9:2–7
Psalm: Psalm 96; antiphon: v. 2
Epistle: Titus 2:11–14
Gospel: Luke 2:1–14
Gospel: Luke 2:1–20
Introit: Psalm 2:1–2, 4–6; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Psalm 98:3b–4a, 2
Verse: Psalm 95:1a, 6b
The Light of Christ Shines Forth in the Darkness
Heaven and earth rejoice on this night because the glory of the Triune God is manifested in the human birth of “our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13). In Him, the Father’s grace, mercy and peace rest upon the world. The silence of death is broken by this “good news of great joy that will be for all the people” (Luke 2:10). And all we who have gone astray like lost and wandering sheep, who have “walked in the darkness” of doubt and fear and sinful unbelief, behold “a great light” in the nativity of Christ (Is. 9:2). In Him “the grace of God has appeared” (Titus 2:11). For this Child of Mary who is born for us, this dear Son of God who is given to us, will bear the burden of our sin and death in His own body on the cross. He thereby establishes a government of peace, “with justice and with righteousness,” which shall have no end; not by any work of man, but “the zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this” (Is. 9:7).
Old Testament: Deuteronomy 18:15–19
Psalm: Psalm 111; antiphon: v. 9
Epistle: Philippians 4:4–7
Gospel: John 1:19–28
Gospel: Luke 1:39–56
Introit: Psalm 19:1, 4–6; antiphon: Isaiah 45:8a
Gradual: Psalm 145:18, 21
Verse: Psalm 40:17b
John the Baptizer Points Everyone to the Messiah
The coming of God in all His unveiled power at Mount Sinai was terrifying to the people of Israel. The thundering voice of the Lord puts sinners in fear of death (Deut. 18:15–19). God, therefore, raised up a prophet like Moses—the Messiah, the Christ. God came to His people veiled in human flesh. The skies poured down the Righteous One from heaven; the earth opened her womb and brought forth Salvation (Introit) through the blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of the Lord (Luke 1:39–56). The fruit of her womb is the very Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the One whose sandal strap John was not worthy to loose (John 1:19–28). In Jesus we are delivered from fear and anxiety. In Him alone we have the peace of God which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:4–7).
Old Testament: Isaiah 40:1–8
Old Testament: Isaiah 40:1–11
Psalm: Psalm 85; antiphon: v. 9
Epistle: 1 Corinthians 4:1–5
Gospel: Matthew 11:2–11
Gospel: Matthew 11:2–10
Introit: Psalm 85:1–2, 6, 8; antiphon: Philippians 4:4–5
Gradual: Psalm 80:1–2
Verse: Psalm 80:2b
John the Baptizer Prepares the Way for the Lord
The voice of the Baptizer cried out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord . . .” (Isa. 40:1). John called the people to be made ready for the Messiah’s coming through repentance, for “all flesh is grass” (Isa. 40:6). Now He asks from prison, “Are you the one who is to come . . .?” (Matt. 11:2). Jesus’ works bear witness that He is. The sick are made well; the dead are raised, and the poor have the Gospel preached to them. Their iniquity is pardoned; they have received from the Lord’s hand double forgiveness for all their sins. The “stewards of the mysteries of God” (1 Cor. 4:1) still deliver Christ’s overflowing forgiveness to the poor in spirit, comforting God’s people with the word of the Gospel which stands forever. This Gospel produces rejoicing among all those who believe.
Old Testament: Malachi 4:1–6
Psalm: Psalm 50:1–15; antiphon: v. 15
Epistle: Romans 15:4–13
Gospel: Luke 21:25–36
Introit: Psalm 80:1, 3, 14, 17; antiphon: Isaiah 62:11b; 30:30, 29
Gradual: Psalm 50:2–3a, 5
Verse: Luke 21:26b–27
The Lord Comes on the Last Day
The day on which our Lord returns will be a “great and awesome day” (Mal. 4:5). For He will come in a cloud with great power and glory. To the wicked and the proud, it will be a Day of judgment that will “set them ablaze” (Mal. 4:1). The signs preceding this Day will bring them fear and fainting. But to those who believe, who fear the name of the Lord, this Day is one to look forward to and rejoice in: “. . . straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (Luke 21:28). Christ our Redeemer is coming; the Sun of Righteousness will bring healing in His wings. Let us, then, give attention to the words of the Lord, which do not pass away. Let us “through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures” (Rom. 15:4) be strengthened in our hope by the Holy Spirit and watch diligently for Jesus’ coming. Then, by God’s grace, we shall escape all these things that will come to pass and stand before the Son of Man.
Lectionary summary © 2021 The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Used by permission. http://lcms.org/worship
Old Testament: Jeremiah 23:5–8
Psalm: Psalm 24; antiphon: v. 7
Epistle: Romans 13:8–14
Epistle: Romans 13:11–14
Gospel: Matthew 21:1–9
Introit: Psalm 25:4–5, 21–22; antiphon: vv. 1–3a
Gradual: Psalm 25:3–4
Verse: Psalm 85:7
The Lord Jesus Comes in Humility to Redeem Us
The new Church Year begins by focusing on the humble coming of our Lord. “Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey” (Matt. 21:5). Even as He was born in a lowly manger, so Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a beast of burden. For He bears the sin of the world. He is the Son of David riding to His enthronement on the cross, where He shows Himself to be “The Lord is our Righteousness” (Jer. 23:5–6). Our Lord still comes in great humility to deliver His righteousness to us in the Word and Sacraments. Before receiving Christ’s body and blood, we also sing, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” (Matt. 21:9) And as we receive the Sacrament, we set our hearts on His return in glory, for “our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed” (Rom. 13:11).
Introit: Ps. 39:4-5, 7-8; antiphon: Isaiah 35:10
Gradual: Ps. 45:14-15
Old Testament: Is. 65:17-25
Psalm 149 (antiphon: v. 2)
Epistle: 1 Thess. 5:1-11
ProperVerse: Rev. 21:2
Gospel: Matt. 25:1-13
By Faith We Are Prepared for Christ's Return
"The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night" (1 Thess. 5:1-11). The arrival of the bridegroom will be sudden and unexpected. Therefore you are to be watchful and ready like the five wise virgins. "For you know neither the day nor the hour" when the Son of Man is to return. (Matt. 25:1-13). The lamps are the Word of Christ. The oil in the lamps is the Holy Spirit, who works through the Word to create and sustain the flame of faith in Christ. The foolish are those who do not give proper attention to the working of the Holy Spirit in baptism, preaching, and the supper, and so their faith does not endure. The wise, however, are those who diligently attend to these gifts of the Spirit, and who therefore have an abundance of oil. The flame of faith endures to the end. By God's grace they are received into the eternal wedding feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, the new heavens and the new earth created by the Lord for the joy of His people (Is. 65:17-25).
Introit: Ps. 95:1-4; antiphon: Ps. 95:6-7a
Gradual: Ps. 116:8, 1
Old Testament: Is. 51:9-16
Psalm 126 (antiphon: v. 1)
Epistle: Col. 1:9-14
ProperVerse: Ps. 36:9
Gospel: Matt. 9:18-26
The Strength of the Lord Is Our Salvation from Sin, Death, and Darkness
A shroud of darkness engulfs us. Sin, death, and disease threaten to sever us from life's fullest measure. Without new life in Christ Jesus, there would be no light to dissipate, dispel, or curb grief and sadness. But Jesus has qualified us "to share in the inheritance of the saints of light" delivering us from the dark domain (Col. 1:9-14). "I have put my words in your mouth and covered you in the shadow of my hand,ÉYou are my people" (Is. 51:9-16). The presence of Christ, in word, wine, bread, and water, confronts our sinful nature with forgiveness. In the sacraments, God claims us to be His very own children, creating, and sustaining our faith. So in Christ, we humbly receive the words, "your faith has made you well" (Matt. 9:18-26). On the last day God will surely awaken us also from slumber in resurrection glory.
Introit: Ps. 85:1, 7, 9, 11; antiphon: Jer. 29:11a, 12
Gradual: Ps. 44:7-8
Old Testament: Prov. 8:11-22
Psalm 111 (antiphon: v. 10a)
Epistle: Phil. 3:17-21
ProperVerse: Ps. 115:11
Gospel: Matt. 22:15-22
Render to God the things of God
When confronted with the civic duty of paying taxes, our Lord Jesus, Wisdom incarnate, walked "in the way of righteousness, in the paths of justice" (Prov. 8:20) and discerned that wisdom "is better than jewels" and "better than gold, even fine gold" (Prov. 8:11, 19). When we set our minds on earthly things, such as wealth and passing glory, our "end is destruction" (Phil. 3:19). However, our humble and prudent Lord has rendered "to God the things that are God's" (Matt. 22:21), namely, perfect fear, love, and trust, as well as the complete sacrifice for our sin. In so doing, He also rendered to Caesar the things of honor and justice, submitting to the law of the land that put Him on the cross. The true "riches and honor are with [Him]," because "enduring wealth and righteousness" (Prov. 8:18) are found in our heavenly citizenship from which "we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." He "will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself" (Phil. 3:20-21).
First Reading: Revelation 7:(2-8) 9-17
Psalm 149 (antiphon: v. 4)
Epistle: 1 John 3:1-3
Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12
Saints Are Blessed in the Eternal Presence of Christ
"A great multitude from all tribes and peoples and languages," cry out "salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne" (Rev. 7:9-17). Faith-filled saints from every place and time with unified voices eternally magnify the Lamb of God. As His beloved children, we too, "shall see him as he is" (1 John 3:1-3). Joined with the throng of angels and a myriad of saints, we shall "serve him day and night in his temple" (Rev. 7:9-17). In our earthly tension vacillating between saint and sinner, faith and doubt, sacred and profane, we earnestly seek Jesus to calm our fears, comfort our spirits, and forgive our sins. The Holy Spirit, through faith in Christ propels us forward, fortifying us in Word and Sacrament, to our eternal home. In the midst of our constant struggle as believers, we need to be blessed. And so we are. The poor in spirit, the meek, the hungry, the thirsty, the merciful, the pure, and the persecuted are all blessed and we will most certainly inherit the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:1-12).
First Reading: Revelation 14:6-7
Psalm 46 (antiphon: v. 7)
Epistle: Romans 3:19-28
Gospel: John 8:31-36 or
Matthew 11:12-19\r
The Son of God Has Set Us Free from Sin and Death by His Grace
"Wisdom is justified by her deeds" (Matt. 11:19), and the true Wisdom of God, Christ Jesus the incarnate Son, justifies us by His deeds. He prepares His way by the preaching of repentance, but He has suffered the violence of the Law and voluntarily handed Himself over to violent men, that we might eat and drink with Him in His Kingdom and "remain in the house forever" (John 8:35). For He is "a friend of tax collectors and sinners" (Matt. 11:19), and He has rescued us by His grace from the slavery of sin and death. By the proclamation of His eternal Gospel "to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people" (Rev. 14:6), "the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law" (Rom. 3:21), "that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus" (Rom. 3:26). And by hearing the Gospel of Christ Jesus, "whom God put forward as a propitiation by His blood, to be received by faith" (Rom. 3:25), "you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32).
Set Apart to Serve Sunday
New Testament: Acts 15:12-22a
Psalm 133 (antiphon: v. 1)
Epistle: James 1:1-12
Gospel: Matthew 13:54-58
St. James of Jerusalem, Brother of Jesus and Martyr
"A prophet is not without honor except in His hometown and in His own household" (Matt. 13:58). James the Just was once offended at Jesus' wisdom and mighty works. But He came to faith following His resurrection, when Jesus appeared to Him (1 Cor. 15:7). He then became a leader of the early Church in Jerusalem, present at the council recorded in Acts 15. There James recognized from the prophets that Jesus was the Lord known from of old and returned to rebuild David's fallen tent and restore it, that the remnant of mankind may seek the Lord and all the Gentiles who are called by My Name (Acts 15:16-18). "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness" (James 1:2-3). Josephus and other historians record that James was martyred by stoning in the 60s AD. "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him" (v. 12).
Introit: Ps. 78:1-3, 4b; antiphon: Ps. 35:3b; 34:17a, 6b; 48:14a
Gradual: Ps. 141:1-2
Old Testament: Gen. 28:10-17
Psalm 84 (antiphon: v. 8)
Epistle: Eph. 4:22-28
ProperVerse: Ps. 98:1a
Gospel: Matt. 9:1-8
Jesus' Incarnation Secures for Us Life, Forgiveness, and Healing
The Lord does not require us to ascend to Him; in mercy He descends to us (Gen. 28:10-17). The ladder in Jacob's dream was not for climbing; it was the means by which the Lord came to bless Jacob. This event finds its fulfillment in Christ who descended from His throne to save and bless us. By His incarnation He is the eternal bridge between heaven and earth. "The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins" (Matt. 9:1-8). The Lord was present in the flesh to absolve the paralytic. Jesus also healed and restored this man's body. "For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation" (Small Catechism). The Lord still has power on earth to forgive sins. In holy absolution He raises up the new man (Eph. 4:22-28) and bestows the healing medicine which will bring about our resurrection on the Last Day. Thus we say with Jacob, "This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!" (Gen. 28:17)
Introit: Ps. 122:1, 6, 8-9; antiphon: Eccl. 36:16-17a
Gradual: Ps. 122:1, 7
Old Testament: Deut. 10:12-21
Psalm 34:8-22 (antiphon: v. 19)
Epistle: 1 Cor. 1:(1-3) 4-9
ProperVerse: Ps. 117:1
Gospel: Matt. 22:34-46
In Life and Death, Christ Fulfills the Law of God
The Pharisees ask a Law question. Jesus asks a Gospel question. The Pharisees seek to test Jesus in His own words. Jesus seeks to "test" them in the saving reality of who He is as the Messiah (Matt. 22:34-46). The Law requires you to "fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul" and to "love the sojouner" (Deut. 10:12-21). Failure to keep the Law perfectly brings judgment. On the other hand, the Gospel brings the grace of God given by Jesus Christ, that you may be blameless in the day of His return (1 Cor. 1:1-9). Jesus is David's Son yet David's Lord, true God and true man. He is Love incarnate who fulfilled all the demands of God's Law on our behalf, that we might be saved from the Law's condemnation and sanctified in the Gospel's forgiveness. Thereby we see that "God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord" (1 Cor. 1:9).
Old Testament: Daniel 10:10-14; 12:13
Psalm 91 (antiphon: v. 11)
Epistle: Revelation 12:7-12
Gospel: Matthew 18:1-11 or
Luke 10:17-20
Our Father in Heaven Protects His Children by Giving His Holy Angels Charge Over Them
We live in "a time of trouble" (Dan. 12:1), in the midst of great tribulation; for Satan and his wicked angels have been thrown out of heaven and have come down to earth "in great wrath," with woeful "temptations to sin" and with constant accusations (Rev. 12:8-12; Matt. 18:7). Even so, we are encouraged by the presence and protection of St. Michael and the holy angels, whom God sends to help us in the strife (Dan. 10:11-13). By "the authority of his Christ," His holy angels guard and keep us in body and soul. These heavenly servants of God preserve His human messengers on earth, the ministers of "the blood of the Lamb," against all the power of the enemy; for by "the word of their testimony," the Church is saved and the devil is defeated (Rev. 12:10-11; Luke 10:18-19). By their preaching and Baptism of repentance, the old Adam and the old evil foe are "drowned in the depth of the sea" (Matt. 18:6); and as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, so are His people delivered and raised from the dust of the earth through the forgiveness of their sins (Dan. 12:1-3).
Introit: Ps. 84: 1-2a, 4, 10b, 11b; antiphon: Ps. 84:9-10a\rGradual: Ps. 92:1-2
Old Testament: Prov. 4:10-23
Psalm 119:9-16 (antiphon: v. 12)
Epistle: Gal. 5:16-24
ProperVerse: Ps. 65:1
Gospel: Luke 17:11-19
The Cry of Faith: Lord, Have Mercy
The ten lepers cried out from a distance, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" (Luke 17:11-19). Their condition cut them off from God and others. So also do the works of the flesh cut us off from God and others. "Those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God" (Gal. 5:16-24). Thus we cry out with the lepers, "Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy; Lord, have mercy," eagerly seeking His good gifts. Jesus said to the lepers, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed. So too, we walk by faith and not by sight, being confident of Jesus' help before we see any evidence of it, trusting that Jesus' cleansing words of forgiveness will restore us to wholeness in the resurrection. Let us be as the one leper who returned to the true High Priest to give Him thanks and glory. For Jesus bore our infirmities in His sacrifice at Calvary. His words are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh (Prov. 4:10-23).
Introit: Ps. 74:1-2, 19b, 21b; antiphon: Ps. 74:20a, 21a, 22a, 23a
Gradual: Ps. 77:14-15
Old Testament: 2 Chron. 28:8-15
Psalm 32 (antiphon: v. 2)
Epistle: Gal. 3:15-22
ProperVerse: Ps. 88:1
Gospel: Luke 10:23-37
Jesus Is Our Good Samaritan
The Law cannot help us or give us life. Rather, it confines everyone under sin as wounded and naked before God (Gal. 3:15-22). So it is that two figures of the Law, the priest and the Levite, passed by the injured man on the side of the road (Luke 10:23-37). Only the promised Seed of Abraham can rescue us and make us righteous before God. Only the Samaritan, our Lord Jesus, had compassion, as did the Samaritans of old (2 Chronicles 28:8-15). He came down to us in our lost and dying condition, pouring on the oil and wine of the Sacraments. He placed us on His own animal, bearing our sin and brokenness in His body on the cross to restore us. Jesus brought us to the inn, that is, the Church, and gave the innkeeper two denarii, that His double forgiveness might continue to be ministered to us. In this way the Lord, by whose Law we are torn and stricken, heals us and revives us by His Gospel and raises us up with Himself.
Introit: Ps. 70:2b, 4a, 5b; antiphon: Ps. 70:1-2a
Gradual: Ps. 34:1-2
Old Testament: Is. 29:17-24
Psalm 146 (antiphon: v. 8)
Epistle: 2 Cor. 3:4-11
or Rom. 10:9-16
ProperVerse: Ps. 81:1
Gospel: Mark 7:31-37
Faith Comes from Hearing
A man who was deaf and therefore also had an impediment in his speech was brought to Jesus (Mark 7:31-37). In the same way, all are by nature deaf toward God and therefore also unable to confess the faith rightly. For "faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ" (Rom. 10:9-17). Jesus put His fingers into the man's ears, and He spat and touched His tongue. Even so in Holy Baptism, water sanctified by the words of Jesus' mouth is applied to us; and the finger of God, that is, the life-giving Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 3:4-11) is put into our ears in the hearing of the baptismal Gospel. Jesus' sighing "Ephphatha" opened the man's ears, and his tongue was loosed to speak plainly as Isaiah prophesied of the Messiah, "In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book" (Is. 29:18-24) So also, He who sighed and breathed His last on the cross for us has given us to hear and believe in Him and has opened our lips that our mouths may declare His praise.
Introit: Ps. 68:1, 3, 7a, 10b, 19; antiphon: Ps. 68:5b, 6a, 35b Gradual: Ps. 28:7b, 1a, 2a Old Testament: Gen. 4:1-15 Psalm 50:7-23 (antiphon: v. 14) Epistle: Eph. 2:1-10 or 1 Cor. 15:1-10 ProperVerse: Ps. 90:1 Gospel: Luke 18:9-14
The Lord Lifts Up the Lowly "And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard" (Gen. 4:1-15). For unlike Abel, Cain's offering did not proceed from a heart that revered and trusted in the Lord. Thus, the lowly tax collector who prayed, "God, be merciful to me, a sinner!" was the one who went down to his house justified before God, not the respectable, outwardly righteous Pharisee who trusted in himself and his own good living (Luke 18:9-14). "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast" (Eph. 2:1-10). The one who penitently despairs of his own righteousness and relies completely on the atoning mercy of God in Christ is the one who is declared righteous. For Christ died for our sins and rose again the third day (1 Cor. 15:1-10). Therefore, "everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
Introit: Ps. 55:1, 4-5, 16; antiphon: Ps. 55:16a, 17b, 18a, 22a Gradual: Ps. 17:8, 2 Old Testament: Jer. 8:4-12 or Jer. 7:1-11 Psalm 92 (antiphon: v. 4) Epistle: Rom. 9:30-10:4 or 1 Cor. 12:1-11 ProperVerse: Ps. 88:1 Gospel: Luke 19:41-48
Jesus Weeps for Jerusalem Our Lord wept over Jerusalem for the destruction that would soon come upon her. For she did not recognize the time of God's visitation in Christ, who had come to bring her peace (Luke 19:41-48). Through His prophets God had consistently called His people to turn from their deceit and false worship. "But My people do not know the judgments of the Lord" (Jer. 8:4-12). They sought to establish their own righteousness rather than receive Christ's righteousness through faith (Rom. 9:30-10:4). So it was that God was in His temple to cleanse it, a precursor to the once-for-all cleansing from sin which He would accomplish in the temple of His own body on the cross. God grant us to know the things that make for our peace-His visitation in the Word and Sacraments-that by the Holy Spirit we may penitently confess "Jesus is Lord" (1 Cor. 12:1-11).
Introit: Ps. 54:1-3, 7; antiphon: Ps. 54:4-5 Gradual: Ps. 8:1 Old Testament: 2 Sam. 22:26-34 Psalm 51:1-12 (antiphon: v. 18) Epistle: 1 Cor. 10:6-13 ProperVerse: Ps. 112:1 Gospel: Luke 16:1-9 (10-13)
The Steward's Shrewdness Sanctified "The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness" (Luke 16:1-9). The steward's shrewdness is praiseworthy for two reasons. First, he knew the master would be merciful. He trusted that the master would honor the debts he forgave in the master's name. In the same way, though we have squandered our heavenly Father's possessions in selfishness and sin, Jesus is the Steward who has canceled our debt, knowing that His forgiveness will be honored by the Father because of the holy cross. Secondly, the steward was shrewd in using oil and wheat to provide for his earthly welfare. So also do these earthly elements aid us when pressed into heavenly use in the anointing of baptism and the wheat of the Lord's Supper. Those who have the Sacraments will have an eternal home when their earthly home fails. These provide us aid in times of temptation (1 Cor. 10:6-13). For the Lord is our strength and a shield to all who trust in Him (2 Sam. 22:26-34).
Beware of False Prophets "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves" (Matt. 7:15). Deceit has its strength in masquerading as the truth. False prophets speak a vision of their own heart, not from the mouth of the Lord (Jer. 23:16-29). They deny the judgment of the Lord, speaking peace to the unrepentant, when in truth there is condemnation and wrath. "You will recognize them by their fruits" (Matt. 7:20). The "fruits" of a true prophet are not outward righteousness or success but faithfulness in proclaiming the Word of the Lord. This is the will of the Father in heaven, that pastors take heed to the flock, the Father's adopted ones (Rom. 8:12-17), warning them against the wolves and their lies, and shepherding the Church of God which He purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:27-38). For indeed, the cross is that good tree bearing good fruit-namely, the body and blood of Christ, given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.
Jesus Restores Paradise and Feeds Us Freely In the Garden of Eden, our first parents received food freely from the gracious hand of God, apart from any burdensome work (Gen 2:7-17). But after the fall, food would be received only through toil and labor. The curse declared, "By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground . . ." (Gen. 3:19). In other words, "The wages of sin is death" (Rom. 6:23). But into this wilderness world came Jesus the Messiah to restore creation. Having compassion on the weary multitudes, He renewed the bounty of Eden on the third day, freely granting an abundance of bread to the 4,000 (Mark 8:1-9). So also our Lord Jesus, having endured the burden of our sin, was raised on the third day to bring us back to Paradise. He now miraculously turns the bread of death into the Bread of Life in the Sacrament, giving you His very body and blood for your forgiveness. For "the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Rom. 6:23).
Introit: Ps. 28:1-2, 7; antiphon: Ps. 28:8-9 Gradual: Ps. 90:13, 1, 2b Old Testament: Ex. 20:1-17 Psalm 19 (antiphon: v. 8) Epistle: Rom. 6:(1-2) 3-11 ProperVerse: Ps. 31:1 Gospel: Matt. 5:(17-19) 20-26
Our Only Hope Is in Christ's Righteousness "Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matt 5:20). God demands nothing less than perfection and holiness from you in regard to His commandments (Ex. 20:1-17). Your only hope, then, is not in your own goodness but in the goodness of Christ, who did not come to destroy the Law and the Prophets, but to fulfill them for you. In Christ, your righteousness does indeed exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees. For you have been baptized into Christ's death and your sinful nature crucified. Therefore, he who has died has been freed from sin (Rom. 6:1-11). You are now raised with Christ to walk in newness of life and to share in His resurrection on the Last Day. Christ has brought you through the baptismal sea "out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery" (Ex. 20:2). Therefore, "consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus" (Rom. 6:11).
Introit: Ps. 27:1a, 11-12, 14; Ps. 27:7, 9 Gradual: Ps. 84:9, 8 Old Testament: 1 Kings 19:11-21 Psalm 16 (antiphon, v. 11) Epistle: 1 Cor. 1:18-25 or 1 Peter 3:8-15 ProperVerse: Ps. 21:1 Gospel: Luke 5:1-11
Jesus Makes Fishers of Men The Lord called fishermen to be fishers of men (Luke 5:1-11). The net they would use is the message of the cross, which is foolishness and a stumbling block to the world (1 Cor. 1:18-25). The power of God to save is not in spectacular signs like wind and fire and earthquakes (1 Kings 19:11-21), nor is it to be found in human intelligence and wisdom. The power of God to save comes in the still, small voice of the preaching of Christ crucified. In worldly darkness the disciples could catch nothing. But in the light of Christ, whose Word was attached to the water, the boats were filled with fish. So it is that in Baptism you have been drawn in to the ship of the Church. Though the nets are breaking and some who hear the Word do not believe, pastors continue to cast the net of the Gospel and the Sacraments, that Christians may abide in the boat of the Church and that we may be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:8-15).
Old Testament: Isaiah 11:1-5 Psalm 138 (antiphon: v. 8a) Epistle: Romans 12:9-16 Gospel:Luke 1:39-45 (46-56)
The Visitation Today Zechariah's house is prepared to sing: the Lord God of Israel has visited His people (Luke 1:68). For the Scriptures are being fulfilled: there shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit (Isa. 11:1). What could raise a King from a dead line? Only the Lord Himself! This is no son of man's will, but the Seed of the woman (Gen. 3:15). The Word of the Lord has done this, and so all are blessed in Him. The greeting of blessed Mary causes John to leap in Elizabeth's womb (Luke 1:41). Both are delighted at what the Word has wrought: "blessed is she who believed there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken by the Lord" (Luke 1:45). Likewise we too rejoice with those who rejoice (Rom. 12:12-15), for our joyful hope is the Lord who has visited us to redeem us-not just a town in Judah but our entire fallen world. The Holy Spirit discloses where salvation is to be found: in the Most Blessed Fruit of Mary's blessed womb. And the whole Church rejoices, saying, "my Beloved Bridegroom, behold, He comes!" (Song of Sol. 2:8)
Introit: Ps. 25:1-2a, 5b, 15, 20; antiphon: Ps. 25:16, 18\rGradual: Ps. 55:22a, 16, 18a Old Testament: Micah 7:18-20 Psalm 103:1-13 (antiphon: v. 8) Epistle: 1 Tim. 1:12-17 or 1 Peter 5:6-11\rProperVerse: Ps. 18:1-2a Gospel: Luke 15:1-10 or Luke 15:11-32\r Jesus Receives Sinners "This man receives sinners and eats with them" (Luke 15:2). The Pharisees' statement of judgment against Jesus is in fact a proclamation of Gospel truth. For our God is one who delights in mercy, who casts all our sins into the depths of the sea through the cross (Micah 7:18-20). "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" (1 Tim. 1:15). Those who refuse to be counted as sinners also refuse Jesus who came only for sinners. Those like the older son (Luke 15:11-32), who think they are righteous of themselves, will not join in the heavenly celebration over the sinner who repents and so remain outside of the Father's house. Let us therefore be on guard against self-righteously trusting in our own merits. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you" (1 Peter 5:6). Rejoice that Jesus receives sinners like us and that He still sits at table with us in the Holy Supper, bestowing His forgiveness and life.
Introit: Ps. 18:1-2a, 27, 30a, 49; antiphon: Ps. 18:18-19\rGradual: Ps. 120:1-2 Old Testament: Prov. 9:1-10 Psalm 34:12-22 (antiphon: v. 11) Epistle: Eph. 2:13-22 or 1 John 3:13-18 ProperVerse: Ps. 7:17 Gospel: Luke 14:15-24
The Gospel Call Goes Out to All\rWisdom has issued an invitation to the divine feast: "Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight" (Prov. 9:5-6). This is the call of the Spirit of Christ to believe the Gospel and to receive His saving gifts in the Holy Supper. Many make excuses and reject this invitation, even as the Jews did in the days of Jesus, yet the Master's house will be filled. The Gospel call therefore goes out to the lowly and despised, into the highways, even to all the Gentiles (Luke 14:15-24). For "you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ" (Eph. 2:13-22). In Christ, believing Jews and Gentiles are no longer strangers but fellow members of the household of God. The enmity of class and race is put to death through the cross. Having been reconciled in the one Body of Christ, we are enabled to love one another (1 John 3:13-18) as we await the marriage feast of the Lamb in His kingdom which will have no end.
Introit: Ps. 8:1-2a, 3-5; antiphon: Liturgical Text
Gradual: Song of the Three Children, 32-34
Old Testament: Is. 6:1-7
Psalm 29 (antiphon: v. 2)
Epistle: Rom. 11:33-36
ProperVerse: Song of the Three Children, 29
Gospel: John 3:1-15(16-17)
The Holy Trinity Reveals Himself to Sinners
When Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he cried out "Woe is me!" For the sinner cannot stand in the presence of a holy God and live (Is. 6:1-7). But God the Father lifted up His Son Jesus for us on the cross, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. This eternal life of Christ is given us according to the Holy Spirit's good pleasure in Baptism. "Unless one is born [again] of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God" (John 3:5). To sinners in fear of death, the messengers of God place on our lips the living body and blood of Christ and speak His words of absolution, "Your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for" (Is. 6:7). Having received forgiveness and life from the Father through the Son by the Holy Spirit, we join with the angels in praising the blessed Trinity, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts!" (Is. 6:3). "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen" (Rom. 11:33-36).
Introit: Ps. 68:1, 4a,c, 11a, 33b, 35; antiphon: Wisdom 1:7a; Ps. 68:3
Old Testament: Gen. 11:1-9
Psalm 143 (antiphon: v. 11)\rNew Testament: Acts 2:1-21
ProperVerse: Ps. 104:30, Liturgical text
Gospel: John 14:23-31
The Holy Spirit Gives Peace
Following the flood, Noah's descendants failed to spread out and fill the earth as God had spoken. Rather, they exalted themselves; with "one language and the same words" (Gen. 11:1) they spoke proudly and arrogantly. The Lord humbled them by confusing "the language of all the earth," dividing and dispersing the people (Gen. 11:9). That dispersal was reversed on Pentecost Day (the fiftieth day of Easter), when God caused the one Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to be preached in a multitude of languages. "At this sound the multitude came together" (Acts 2:6), for the preaching of Christ is the primary work of the Holy Spirit, whereby He gathers people from all nations into one Church. The Holy Spirit teaches and brings to our remembrance the words of Jesus, which are the words of the Father who sent Him. These words bestow forgiveness and peace to those who keep and hold on to them in love for Jesus. "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." (John 14:27).
Introit: Ps. 47:1-2, 5, 8; antiphon: Acts 1:11
Old Testament: 2 Kings 2:5-15
Psalm 110 (antiphon: v. 1)
New Testament: Acts 1:1-11
ProperVerse: Ps. 47:5, 68:18a
Gospel: Mark 16:14-20
or Luke 24:44-53
Jesus Is Ascended, but Not Absent
On the fortieth day after His resurrection, our Lord ascended to the right hand of the Father. But although Jesus is hidden from your eyes, He is not absent from you. For He now fills all things in heaven and on earth. He continues "to do and to teach" (Acts 1:1), preaching repentance and forgiveness of sins through those sent in His name (Mark 16:14-20; Luke 24:44-53), giving you His true body and blood in the Supper. Jesus is your great Elijah who pours out on you a double portion of His Spirit in the Word and the Sacraments (2 Kings 2:5-15). He is Lord over all things for the sake of the Church. He whom heaven cannot contain has raised your human nature to share fully in the glory of God. You who believe and are baptized into Christ's body are already sitting in the heavenly places; for you are in Him who is at the Father's right hand. When He comes again in the clouds on the Last Day, you also will appear with Him in glory.
Rogate
Introit: Ps. 66:1-2a, 17, 19-20; antiphon: Is. 48:20b
Old Testament: Num. 21:4-9
Psalm 107:1-9 (antiphon: v. 19)
Epistle: 1 Tim. 2:1-6
or James 1:22-27
ProperVerse: Liturgical text, John 16:28
Gospel: John 16:23-30 (31-33)
The Father Answers Our Prayers Because of Jesus
"Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you" (John 16:23). To pray in Jesus' name is to pray as one who has been baptized. For it is in the water that He put His name upon you, claiming you as His own, making you a son of God with access to the Father. By His incarnation and crucifixion, our Lord Jesus broke through the barrier of sin which separated us from God, opening a portal to the Father. To pray in Jesus' name is to pray with faith in Him as the one Mediator between God and men, who gave Himself a ransom for all (1 Tim. 2:1-6). Like Moses in the wilderness, Jesus is our go-between and intercessor before the throne of heaven. He was lifted up for us on the cross that we might be saved and restored to fellowship with the Father (Num. 21:4-9). Looking into this perfect teaching of liberty (James 1:22-27) we pray with boldness and confidence as dear children of God.
The Lord’s Supper for sinners, frequency, fellowship, church discipline, remembrance, and more
Cantate
Introit: Ps. 98:1b, 3-4; antiphon: Ps. 98:1a,2b
Old Testament: Is. 12:1-6
Psalm 66:1-8 (antiphon: v. 5)
Epistle: James 1:16-21
ProperVerse: Ps. 118:16, Romans 6:9
Gospel: John 16:5-15
Jesus Promises to Send His Holy Spirit, the Helper
Though Jesus has departed from us visibly to the right hand of the Father who sent Him, yet this is to our advantage. For Jesus-who is Lord over all creation, who intercedes for us before the Father, who is preparing a place for us in heaven-has sent the Helper, the Spirit of Truth (John 16:5-15). "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights" through Jesus Christ (James 1:17). The Holy Spirit helps us by taking what is Christ's and declaring it to us. In the Word of truth, the Spirit works repentance and delivers to us the forgiveness of sins, the righteousness of Christ, and victory over the devil. For the ruler of this world is judged and defeated by the cross. Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, we have been brought forth to new life in Him who is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. Confident of our resurrection with Christ we confess, "Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid" (Is. 12:2).
Jubilate
Introit: Ps. 66:3, 5, 8-9; antiphon: Ps. 66:1-2\rOld Testament: Is. 40:25-31
or Lam. 3:22-33
Psalm 147:1-11 (antiphon: v. 5)
Epistle: 1 Peter 2:11-20
or 1 John 3:1-3
ProperVerse: Ps. 111:9a, Luke 24:26
Gospel: John 16:16-22
Those Who Wait on the Lord Shall Rejoice
The people of God are pilgrims and sojourners in this world, looking ahead to a destination yet to come (1 Peter 2:11-20). Though we are now children of God, the fullness of what we shall be has not yet been revealed (1 John 3:1-3). We are those who wait on the Lord. "The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him" (Lam. 3:25). Jesus tells us that the wait is just a little while. "A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me" (John 16:16). Though you must experience sorrow for a time, though you must live as strangers in a world that is at enmity with Christ, yet your sorrow will be turned to joy when He returns. "But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength" (Is. 40:31). The little while of weeping shall be replaced with an eternity of rejoicing in the presence of Christ the crucified and risen Savior. "And no one will take your joy from you" (John 16:22).
Misericordias Domini
Introit: Ps. 33:1, 18-20; antiphon: Ps. 33:5b, 6a
Old Testament: Ezek. 34:11-16
Psalm 23 (antiphon: v. 6)
Epistle: 1 Peter 2:21-25
ProperVerse: Luke 24:35b, John 10:14
Gospel: John 10:11-16
The Good Shepherd Cares for His Sheep
Our Lord Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-16). He is not like the hireling, who cares nothing for the sheep and only for himself, who flees when he sees the wolf coming. Rather, Jesus is the Good Shepherd who seeks out His scattered sheep to deliver them (Ezek. 34:11-16). He gathers them and feeds them in rich pasture. He binds up the broken and strengthens the sick. He lays down His life for wandering and wayward sheep. On the cross, Christ bore in His body the attacks of the predators of sin and death and the devil for you that you might be saved. He now lives to restore your soul in the still waters of baptism, to lead you in the paths of righteousness by the voice of His Gospel, to prepare the table of His holy supper before you, that you may dwell in the house of the Lord forever (Psalm 23). "For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls" (1 Peter 2:25).
Quasimodo Geniti
Introit: Ps. 81:1, 7a, 10, 16b; antiphon: 1 Peter 2:2a
Old Testament: Ezek. 37:1-14
Psalm 33 (antiphon: v. 6)\rEpistle: 1 John 5:4-10
ProperVerse: Matt. 28:7b, John 20:26a, c
Gospel: John 20:19-31
The Wounds of Christ Give Us Life
"For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood" (1 John 5:7). These three point to Christ and flow from Christ. Jesus shows His disciples His hands side, from which blood and water flowed, saying "Peace be with you." He presents the wounds which turn our fear to gladness and which restore us to the Father. Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, "Receive the Holy Spirit" (John 20:23). His breath, His words are Spirit and life. They raise up our dry, dead bones and give us new and everlasting life (Ezek. 37:1-14). Christ now gives His ministers to speak His forgiving, Spirit-filled words to the penitent in His stead. Our Lord continues to come to His people, presenting His wounds to us in the Sacraments of water and blood. He bids us to touch His side at His table, to receive His risen body and blood in true faith, that believing we may have life in His name.
Introit: Ps. 8:1, 5-6, 9; antiphon: Luke 24:5-7
Gradual: Ps. 118:24,1
Old Testament: Job 19:23-27
Psalm 118:15-29 (antiphon: v. 1)
New Testament: 1 Cor. 5:6-8
or 1 Cor. 15:51-57
ProperVerse: 1 Cor. 5:7b-8a, c
Gospel: Mark 16:1-8
Christ's Resurrection Means That We Will One Day Be Raised
"Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed" (1 Cor. 5:7). By the shed blood of Christ, the Lamb of God, eternal death has passed over us. Now we pass with Christ through death into life everlasting. For Christ the crucified One is risen! The stone has been rolled away from the tomb, revealing that the tomb could not hold Him (Mark 16:1-8). Now our Redeemer lives eternally to save us from sin and Satan and the grave, and we can live in the sure hope of our own bodily resurrection with Christ. "After my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God" (Job 19:26). Feasting on the living Christ, who is our meat and drink indeed, we boldly say: "O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? . . . But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Cor. 15:54-55, 57).
Introit: Ps. 102:1-2, 12; antiphon: Isaiah 53:4a, 5a, 6a,c
Gradual: Is. 53:1,11b
Old Testament: Is. 52:13-53:12
Psalm 22 (antiphon: v. 1)
or Psalm 31 (antiphon: v. 1)
Epistle: 2 Cor. 5:14-21\rTract: Ps. 140:1-7, 12-13
Gospel: John 18:1-19:42
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the world. "Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and carries our sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement, so that "with His stripes we are healed" (Is. 53:4-5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). For in Christ, "God was reconciling the whole world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them" (2 Cor. 5:19).
Introit: Ps. 102:1-2, 12; antiphon: Isaiah 53:4a, 5a, 6a,c
Gradual: Is. 53:1,11b
Old Testament: Is. 52:13-53:12
Psalm 22 (antiphon: v. 1)
or Psalm 31 (antiphon: v. 1)
Epistle: 2 Cor. 5:14-21\rTract: Ps. 140:1-7, 12-13
Gospel: John 18:1-19:42
Behold the Lamb of God, Who Takes Away the Sin of the World
Jesus, the Lamb of God, is led to the slaughter of His cross as the sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the world. "Despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" (Is. 53:3), He is the righteous Servant who justifies many by His innocent suffering and death. He bears our griefs and carries our sorrows; He is wounded for our transgressions; He is crushed for our iniquities; He suffers our chastisement, so that "with His stripes we are healed" (Is. 53:4-5). As the Son of God, He fulfills the Law for us in human flesh, and so fulfills the Scriptures (John 19:7, 24). For in Christ, "God was reconciling the whole world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them" (2 Cor. 5:19).
Introit: Ps. 67:1-3, 6b-7; antiphon: Gal 6:14b, Liturgical text
Gradual: Ps. 111:4-5
Old Testament: Ex. 12:1-14
or Ex. 24:3-11
Psalm 116:12-19 (antiphon: v. 17)
Epistle: 1 Cor. 11:23-32
Tract: Ps. 111:4-5; John 6:55-56
Gospel: John 13:1-15 (34-35)
Let Us Love One Another, as Christ Jesus Has Loved Us
"For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes" (1 Cor. 11:26). By eating His body and drinking His blood, we proclaim to all the world that Jesus is, indeed, our Passover Lamb (Ex. 12:1-14), who was sacrificed for us on Calvary. In Christ, the Lord remembers us in mercy and remembers our sin no more; He forgives us all our iniquity. With such love, he "loved His own who were in the world," and even loves us "to the end" (John 13:1). As He washes us and feeds us in love, let us love one another, just as He has loved us (John 13:
Palmarum
Processional Gospel: Matt. 21:1-9
or John 12:12-19
Introit: Ps. 22:1, 7-8, 11; antiphon: Ps. 22:19, 21
Gradual: Ps. 73:23b-24, 1
Old Testament: Zech. 9:9-12
Psalm 118:19-29 (antiphon: v. 26)
or Psalm 31:9-16 (antiphon: v. 5)
Epistle: Phil. 2:5-11
Tract: Ps. 22:1, 4, 5
Gospel: Matt. 26:1-27:66
or Matt. 27:11-54
The Cross and Passion of Our Lord Are the Hour of His Glory
"Behold, your King is coming to you . . . humble and mounted on a donkey" (Zech. 9:9-12; Mt. 21:1-9). Our Lord rides in this humble fashion because He is entering Jerusalem to humble Himself even to the point of death on a cross (Phil. 2:5-11). His kingly crown will not be made of gold but of thorns, the sign of sin's curse. For His royal reign is displayed in bearing this curse for His people, saving us from our enemies by sacrificing His own life. The sinless One takes the place of the sinner so that the sinner can be freed and bear the name "Barabbas," "son of the Father" (Matthew 26 and 27). It is at the name of this exalted Savior, Jesus, that we bow in humble faith. With the centurion who declared, "Truly this was the Son of God!" (Mt. 27:54), we are also given to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Phil. 2:11).
Judica
Introit: Ps. 43: 3-5; antiphon: Ps. 43:1-2a
Gradual: Ps. 143:9a, 10a; 18:48a,c
Old Testament: Gen. 22:1-14
Psalm 43 (antiphon: v. 5)
Epistle: Heb. 9:11-15
Tract: Ps. 129:1-4
Gospel: John 8:(42-45) 46-59
Jesus Is Our Redemption
In the temple Jesus said, "If anyone keeps my word, he will never see death" (John 8:51). For Jesus came to taste death for us-to drink the cup of suffering to the dregs in order that we might be released from its power. Clinging to His life-giving words, we are delivered from death's sting and its eternal judgment. Christ is our High Priest, who entered the Most Holy Place and with His own blood obtained everlasting redemption for His people (Heb. 9:11-15). He is the One who was before Abraham was, and yet is his descendant. He is the promised Son who carries the wood up the mountain for the sacrifice, who is bound and laid upon the altar of the cross. He is the ram who is offered in our place, who is willingly caught in the thicket of our sin, and who wears the crown of thorns upon His head (Gen. 22:1-14). Though Jesus is dishonored by the sons of the devil, He is vindicated by the Father through the cross.
Laetare
Introit: Ps. 122:1-2, 6, 8; antiphon: Isaiah 66:10a, 11a
Gradual: Ps. 122:1, 7
Old Testament: Ex. 16:2-21
or Is. 49:8-13
Psalm 132:8-18 (antiphon: v. 13)
Epistle: Gal. 4:21-31
or Acts 2:41-47
Tract: Ps. 125:1-2, 5b
Gospel: John 6:1-15
The Lord Feeds His People
The Lord provided bread from heaven for His people in the wilderness (Ex. 16:2-21). Now He who is Himself the living bread from heaven miraculously provides bread for the five thousand (John 6:1-15). This takes place near the time of the Passover, after a great multitude had followed Jesus across the sea, and when He went up on a mountain. Seen in this way, Jesus is our new and greater Moses, who releases us from the bondage of Mount Sinai and makes us free children of the promise (Gal. 4:21-31). Five loaves become twelve baskets-that is, the five books of Moses find their goal and fulfillment in Christ, whose people continue steadfastly in the doctrine and fellowship of the twelve apostles, and in the breaking and receiving of the bread of life, which is the body of Christ together with His precious blood, and in the prayers (Acts 2:41-47). So it is that God's people "shall not hunger or thirst" (Is. 49:8-13). For He abundantly provides for us in both body and soul.
OculiIntroit: Ps. 25:1-2, 17-18, 20; antiphon: Ps. 25:15-16Gradual: Ps. 9:19, 3Old Testament: Ex. 8:16-24 or Jer. 26:1-15Psalm 136:1-16 (antiphon: v. 26) or Psalm 4 (antiphon: v. 8)Epistle: Eph. 5:1-9Tract: Ps. 123:1-3aGospel: Luke 11:14-28
Jesus Overcomes the Strong ManJeremiah was charged with speaking evil when he spoke the Word of the Lord (Jer. 26:1-15). So also, Jesus is accused of doing evil when in fact He is doing good. He casts out a demon from a mute man so that he is able to speak (Luke 11:14-28). But some said Jesus did this by the power of Beelzebub, Satan. Like Pharaoh of old, their hearts were hard (Ex. 8:16-24). They did not recognize the finger of God, the power of the Holy Spirit at work in and through Jesus. Jesus is the Stronger Man who overcomes the strong man. He takes the devil's armor of sin and death and destroys it from the inside out by the holy cross. He exorcizes and frees us by water and the Word. We were once darkness, but now we are light in Christ the Lord (Eph. 5:1-9). As children of light, our tongues are loosed to give thanks to Him who saved us.
ReminiscereIntroit: Ps. 25:1-2a, 7-8, 11; antiphon: Ps. 25:6, 2b, 22Gradual: Ps. 25:17-18Old Testament: Gen. 32:22-32Psalm 121 (antiphon: vv. 1-2)Epistle: 1 Thess. 4:1-7 or Rom. 5:1-5\rTract: Ps. 106:1-4Gospel: Matt. 15:21-28
Holding God to His Word\rJacob wrestled with God; he would not let Him go until he received a blessing from Him (Gen. 32:22-32). So it was with the Canaanite woman. Though Jesus seemed to ignore and reject her, she continued to call upon His name and look to Him for help (Mt. 15:21-28). Even when the Lord called her a little dog, she held on to Him in faith and would not let Him wriggle out of His words: "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." This Gentile woman shows herself to be a true Israelite, who struggles with God and man in Christ and prevails. "O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire" (Mt. 15:27-28). This is the sanctifying will of God (1 Thess. 4:1-7)-to test your faith in order that it may be refined and strengthened. For tribulation produces perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope. And hope in Christ does not disappoint (Rom. 5:1-5).
InvocabitIntroit: Ps. 91:1-2, 9-10, 13; antiphon: Ps. 91: 15-16Gradual: Ps. 91:11-12Old Testament: Gen. 3:1-21 or 1 Sam. 17:40-51Psalm 32 (antiphon: v. 7) or Psalm 118:1-13 (antiphon: v. 5)Epistle: 2 Cor. 6:1-10 or Heb. 4:14-16Tract: Ps. 91:1, 4a, 15a, 16Gospel: Matt. 4:1-11
Jesus Does Battle in Our Place\rIn the Garden, man exalts himself to be a god in place of God (Gen. 3:1-21). He succumbs to the temptation of the devil, and eating of the forbidden fruit, he receives death. But in the sin-cursed wilderness, God humbles Himself to become man in place of man (Mt. 4:1-11). He does not eat but fasts and bears the onslaughts of the devil for us that we may be restored to life. Jesus stands as David in our place to do battle against the Goliath, Satan (1 Samuel 17:40-51). Though outwardly Jesus appears weak, yet He comes in the name of the Lord of hosts. He draws from the five smooth stones of the books of Moses and slings the Word of God. The stone sinks into the forehead, and the enemy falls. In Christ we are victorious over the devil. Let us therefore not receive the grace of God in vain (2 Cor. 6:1-10), but seeing that we have a great High Priest, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain help in time of need (Heb 4:14-16).
Introit: Ps. 57:1-3a,c; antiphon: Wisdom 11:24-26Gradual: Ps. 57:1a, 3aOld Testament: Joel 2:12-19/n or Jonah 3:1-10Psalm 51:1-13 (14-19) (antiphon: v. 17)Epistle: 2 Peter 1:2-11Tract: Ps. 103:10; 79:8a, 9aGospel: Matt. 6:(1-6) 16-21
Introit: Ps. 31:1, 5, 9, 16; antiphon: Ps. 31:2b-3Gradual: Ps. 77:14-15Old Testament: 1 Sam. 16:1-13 or Is. 35:3-7Psalm 89:18-29 (antiphon: 20) or Psalm 146 (antiphon: v. 2)Epistle: 1 Cor. 13:1-13Tract: Ps. 100:1-3Gospel: Luke 18:31-43
Faith AloneThe seeing are blind, while the one who is blind can see (Luke 18:31-43). Jesus tells the twelve that He is going up to Jerusalem to suffer and die and rise again, but they cannot understand or grasp what He is saying. The meaning of His words is hidden from their sight. However, as Jesus makes His way up to Jerusalem, a blind man calls out to Him for mercy. This blind man sees that Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior, for he calls Him "Son of David." Indeed, Jesus is the Lord's anointed, the keeper of sheep (1 Sam. 16:1-13) who goes to lay down His life for the sheep. He is the incarnate love of the Father who suffers long and is kind, who is not puffed up, who never fails us (1 Cor. 13:1-13). Jesus opens the eyes of the blind (Is. 35:3-7) to see Him not according to outward appearances of lowliness, but according to His heart of mercy and compassion. Those who behold Him thus by faith follow Him to the cross through death into life.
Introit: Ps. 44:1-2, 7-8; antiphon: Ps. 44:23, 25a, 26aGradual: Ps. 83:18, 13Old Testament: Is. 55:10-13Psalm 84 (antiphon: v. 4)Epistle: 2 Cor. 11:19-12:9 or Heb. 4:9-13Tract: Ps. 60:1-2, 5Gospel: Luke 8:4-15
Scripture AloneThe Sower sows the seed of His Word (Luke 8:4-15). This Word is living and powerful (Heb. 4:9-13) to conceive new life in those who hear it. But the planting of Christ is attacked by the devil, the world, and the flesh. Satan snatches the Word away from hard hearts. The riches and pleasures of this life choke off faith. Shallow and emotional belief withers in time of temptation and trouble. But see how Christ bears this attack for us! Christ's cross was planted in the hard and rocky soil of Golgotha. A crown of thorns was placed upon His head. Satan and His demons hellishly hounded and devoured Him. Yet, through His dying and rising again, He destroyed these enemies of ours. Jesus is Himself the Seed which fell to the ground and died in order that it might sprout forth to new life and produce much grain. In Him, the weak are strong (2 Cor. 11:19-12:9). He is the Word of the Father which does not return void (Is. 55:10-13) but yields a harvest hundredfold.
Introit: Ps. 18:1-2a, 27, 32, 49; antiphon: Ps. 18:5-6aGradual: Ps. 9:9-10, 18-19aOld Testament: Ex. 17:1-7Psalm 95:1-9 (antiphon: v. 6)Epistle: 1 Cor. 9:24-10:5Tract: Ps. 130:1-4Gospel: Matt. 20:1-16
Grace AloneThe people of Israel contended with the Lord in the wilderness (Ex. 17:1-7). They were dissatisfied with His provision. In the same way, the first laborers in the vineyard complained against the landowner for the wage he provided them (Matt. 20:1-16). They charged him with being unfair, but in reality he was being generous. For the Lord does not wish to deal with us on the basis of what we deserve but on the basis of His abounding grace in Christ. The first-those who rely on their own merits-will be last. "For they were overthrown in the wilderness" (1 Cor. 10:5). But the last, those who rely on Christ, will be first. For Christ is the Rock (1 Cor. 9:24-10:5). He is the One who was struck and from whose side blood and water flowed that we may be cleansed of our sin.
Introit: Ps. 84:1-2a, 4, 10-11; antiphon: Ps. 77:18Gradual: Ps. 45:2a, 110:1Old Testament: Ex. 34:29-35 or Ex. 3:1-14Psalm 2 (antiphon: v. 7)Epistle: 2 Peter 1:16-21ProperVerse: Ps. 96:2-3Gospel: Matt. 17:1-9
Jesus Is Transfigured and Manifests His GloryThe Lord appeared to Moses in the light of the burning bush (Ex. 3:1-14). Later Moses' face would shine with the light of God's glory when he came down from Mount Sinai (Ex. 34:29-35). At the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared with the One who is the Light of Light Himself (Matt. 17:1-9). Jesus' glory as God shines with brilliant splendor in and through His human nature. By this epiphany, our Lord confirmed the prophetic word (2 Pet. 1:16-21), revealing that He is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. He manifested His majesty as the eternal Son of the Father, and He wonderfully foreshowed our adoption as sons (Collect). We who have been baptized into Christ's body are given a glimpse of the glory that we will share with Him in the resurrection on the Last Day.
Introit: Ps. 97:1, 10-12; antiphon: Ps. 97:6,9Gradual: Ps. 102:15-16Old Testament: 2 Kings 5:1-15aPsalm 110:1-4 (antiphon: v. 2a)Epistle: Rom. 1:8-17 or Rom. 12:16-21ProperVerse: Ps. 97:1Gospel: Matt. 8:1-13
Jesus Came for Gentiles, TooThe Gospel of Christ is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Gentile (Rom. 1:8-17). Even in the Old Testament, the Gentiles were beneficiaries of God's saving power. Though unimpressed at first with the Word of God, a Syrian commander is persuaded to receive that Word, and in the water he is cleansed and brought to faith in the God of Israel (2 Kings 5:1-15a). Evil is overcome by good (Rom 12:16-21). So also in the New Testament, a Roman centurion demonstrates great and humble faith in the Lord (Matt. 8:1-13). All he needs is the Word of Christ, for he trusts that Jesus' Word of healing has authority to accomplish what it says. And indeed it does. The centurion's faith is praised by our Lord above that of any Israelite. For the last shall be first, and the first last. Apart from faith in Christ, there is no salvation-not even for a Jew-but only weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Introit: Ps. 66:1-5, 20; antiphon: Ps. 66:4, 92:1Gradual: Ps. 107:20-21Old Testament: Ex. 33:12-23 or Amos 9:11-15Psalm 67 (antiphon: v. 1) or Psalm 111 (antiphon: v. 9)Epistle: Eph. 5:22-33 or Rom. 12:6-16ProperVerse: Ps. 148:2Gospel: John 2:1-11
Jesus' First Miracle Reveals God's GloryThe coming of the Messianic kingdom means the restoration of creation. The sign of this restoration is that "the mountains shall drip sweet wine" (Amos 9:11-15). When the elements of a fallen creation fail and run short at a wedding feast, our Lord Jesus steps in to restore creation and miraculously changes water into an abundance of the very best wine (John 2:1-11). With this sign, Christ manifests His glory. The "back" of God (Ex. 33:12-23) is revealed to those who believe. The hour will come when Jesus will again manifest His glory by taking creation's curse into His own body to release us from its power. The Bridegroom will give His life for the Bride (Eph. 5:22-32), and from His side will flow water and blood, the holy sacraments by which she is cleansed and made one with Him. Through this sacrificial love of Christ we are enabled to "love one another with brotherly affection . . ." and to "outdo one another in showing honor" (Rom. 12:6-16).
Introit: Ps. 89:1, 26-28; antiphon: Liturgical text, Ps. 89:20Gradual: Ps. 72:18-19Old Testament: Joshua 3:1-3, 7-8, 13-17 or Is. 42:1-7Psalm 85 (antiphon: v. 9)Epistle: 1 Cor. 1:26-31ProperVerse: Ps. 143:10Gospel: Matt. 3:13-17
In His Baptism, Jesus Takes His Place with SinnersOur Lord Jesus is baptized "to fulfill all righteousness" (Matt. 3:13-17). He partakes of a baptism for sinners in order that He might be our substitute and bear the judgment we deserve. In the water, Jesus trades places with us. Our sin becomes His sin. His righteousness becomes our righteousness. Our glory, therefore, is in "Christ Jesus, who became to us . . . righteousness and sanctification and redemption" (1 Cor. 1:26-31). Jesus is the "chosen" One sent from the Father to release us from the prison house of sin and death (Is. 42:1-7). Baptized into Christ, we also become the chosen ones, beloved of the Father. We cross the Jordan with Jesus (Joshua 3) through death into the promised land of new life with God.
Introit: Ps. 72:1-2, 10-11; antiphon: Liturgical textGradual: Is. 60:6b, 1Old Testament: Is. 60:1-6Psalm 24 (antiphon: v. 7)\rEpistle: Eph. 3:1-12ProperVerse: Matt. 2:2bGospel: Matt. 2:1-12\rThe Lord God Is Manifested in the Incarnate SonThe Feast of the Epiphany centers in the visit of the Magi from the East. In that respect, it is a "Thirteenth Day" of Christmas; and yet, it also marks the beginning of a new liturgical season. While Christmas has focused on the Incarnation of our Lord-that is, on God becoming flesh-the season of Epiphany emphasizes the manifestation or self-revelation of God in that same flesh of Christ. For the Lord Himself has entered our darkness and rises upon us with the brightness of His true light (Is. 60:1-2). He does so chiefly by His Word of the Gospel, which He causes to be preached within His Church on earth-not only to the Jews but also to Gentiles (Eph. 3:8-10). As the Magi were guided by the promises of Holy Scripture to find and worship the Christ Child with His mother in the house (Matt. 2:5-11), so does He call disciples from all nations by the preaching of His Word, to find and worship Him within His Church (Is. 60:3-6). With gold they confess His royalty; with incense, His deity; and with myrrh, His priestly sacrifice (Matt. 2:11).
Introit: Ps. 98:1-4; antiphon: Is. 9:6Gradual: Ps. 118:26a, 27a, 23Old Testament: Ex. 40:17-21, 34-38Psalm 2 (antiphon: v. 7)Epistle: Titus 3:4-7ProperVerse: Liturgical textGospel: John 1:1-14 (15-18)
The Living and Life-Giving Word of God Dwells among Us in the FleshIn the beginning God created all things through His Word, His Son. But man fell into sin, and with man all creation was cursed. Therefore, God spoke His Word again, this time into the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary. The glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle of our human nature (Ex. 40:17-21, 34-38). "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:1-14). The Son of God took on our flesh and blood and died on the cross in order that we might receive the right to become the children of God through faith. Baptized into Christ's body, we are made partakers of a new Genesis, "the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:4-7). In Christ, the kindness and love of God our Savior toward man has truly appeared.
Introit: Ps. 2:1-2, 4-6; antiphon: liturgical textGradual: Ps. 98:3b, 4a, 2Old Testament: Is. 9:2-7Psalm 96 (antiphon: v. 2)\rEpistle: Titus 2:11-14ProperVerse: Ps. 95:1a, 6bGospel: Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)
The Light of Christ Shines Forth in the DarknessHeaven and earth rejoice on this night because the glory of the Triune God is manifested in the human birth of "our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" (Titus 2:13). In Him, the Father's grace, mercy and peace rest upon the world. The silence of death is broken by this "good news of great joy that will be for all the people" (Luke 2:10). And all we who have gone astray like lost and wandering sheep, who have "walked in the darkness" of doubt and fear and sinful unbelief, behold "a great light" in the nativity of Christ (Is. 9:2). In Him "the grace of God has appeared" (Titus 2:11). For this Child of Mary who is born for us, this dear Son of God who is given to us, will bear the burden of our sin and death in His own body on the cross. He thereby establishes a government of peace, "with justice and with righteousness," which shall have no end; not by any work of man, but "the zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this" (Is. 9:7).
Rorate CoeliIntroit: Ps. 19:1, 4-6; antiphon: Is. 45:8aGradual: Ps. 145:18, 21Old Testament: Deut. 18:15-19Psalm 111 (antiphon: v. 9)Epistle: Phil. 4:4-7ProperVerse: Ps.40:17bGospel: John 1:19-28 or Luke 1:39-56
John the Baptizer Points Everyone to the MessiahThe coming of God in all His unveiled power at Mount Sinai was terrifying to the people of Israel. The thundering voice of the Lord puts sinners in fear of death (Deut. 18:15-19). God, therefore, raised up a prophet like Moses-the Messiah, the Christ. God came to His people veiled in human flesh. The skies poured down the Righteous One from heaven; the earth opened her womb and brought forth Salvation (Introit) through the blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of the Lord (Luke 1:39-56). The fruit of her womb is the very Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the One whose sandal strap John was not worthy to loose (John 1:19-28). In Jesus we are delivered from fear and anxiety. In Him alone we have the peace of God which surpasses all understanding (Phil. 4:4-7).
GaudeteIntroit: Ps. 85:1-2, 6, 8; antiphon: Phil. 4:4-5\rGradual: Ps. 80:1-2Old Testament: Is. 40:1-8 (9-11)Psalm 85 (antiphon: v. 9)Epistle: 1 Cor. 4:1-5ProperVerse: Ps. 80:2bGospel: Matt. 11:2-10 (11)
John the Baptizer Prepares the Way for the LordThe voice of the Baptizer cried out in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the Lord . . ." (Isa. 40:1). John called the people to be made ready for the Messiah's coming through repentance, for "all flesh is grass" (Isa. 40:6). Now He asks from prison, "Are you the one who is to come . . .?" (Matt. 11:2). Jesus' works bear witness that He is. The sick are made well; the dead are raised, and the poor have the Gospel preached to them. Their iniquity is pardoned; they have received from the Lord's hand double forgiveness for all their sins. The "stewards of the mysteries of God" (1 Cor. 4:1) still deliver Christ's overflowing forgiveness to the poor in spirit, comforting God's people with the word of the Gospel which stands forever. This Gospel produces rejoicing among all those who believe.
Populus ZionIntroit: Ps. 80:1, 3, 14, 17; antiphon: Is. 62:11b; 30:30, 29Gradual: Ps. 50:2-3a , 5Old Testament: Mal. 4:1-6Psalm 50:1-15 (antiphon: v. 15)Epistle: Rom. 15:4-13ProperVerse: Luke 21:26b-27Gospel: Luke 21:25-36
The Lord Comes on the Last Day\rThe day on which our Lord returns will be a "great and awesome day" (Mal. 4:5). For He will come in a cloud with great power and glory. To the wicked and the proud, it will be a Day of judgment that will "set them ablaze" (Mal. 4:1). The signs preceding this Day will bring them fear and fainting. But to those who believe, who fear the name of the Lord, this Day is one to look forward to and rejoice in: ". . . straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near" (Luke 21:28). Christ our Redeemer is coming; the Sun of Righteousness will bring healing in His wings. Let us, then, give attention to the words of the Lord, which do not pass away. Let us "through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures" (Rom. 15:4) be strengthened in our hope by the Holy Spirit and watch diligently for Jesus' coming. Then, by God's grace, we shall escape all these things that will come to pass and stand before the Son of Man.
Ad Te Levavi Introit: Ps. 25:4-5, 21-22; antiphon: Ps. 25:1-3a Gradual: Ps. 25:3-4 Old Testament: Jer. 23:5-8 Psalm 24 (antiphon: v. 7) Epistle: Rom. 13:(8-10) 11-14 ProperVerse: Ps. 85:7 Gospel: Matt. 21:1-9
The Lord Jesus Comes in Humility to Redeem Us The new Church Year begins by focusing on the humble coming of our Lord. "Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey" (Matt. 21:5). Even as He was born in a lowly manger, so Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a beast of burden. For He bears the sin of the world. He is the Son of David riding to His enthronement on the cross, where He shows Himself to be "The LORD is our Righteousness" (Jer. 23:5-6). Our Lord still comes in great humility to deliver His righteousness to us in the Word and Sacraments. Before receiving Christ's body and blood, we also sing, "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" (Matt. 21:9) And as we receive the Sacrament, we set our hearts on His return in glory, for "our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed" (Rom. 13:11).
Introit: Ps. 39:4-5, 7-8; antiphon: Isaiah 35:10 Gradual: Ps. 45:14-15 Old Testament: Is. 65:17-25 Psalm 149 (antiphon: v. 2) Epistle: 1 Thess. 5:1-11 ProperVerse: Rev. 21:2 Gospel: Matt. 25:1-13
By Faith We Are Prepared for Christ's Return "The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night" (1 Thess. 5:1-11). The arrival of the bridegroom will be sudden and unexpected. Therefore you are to be watchful and ready like the five wise virgins. "For you know neither the day nor the hour" when the Son of Man is to return. (Matt. 25:1-13). The lamps are the Word of Christ. The oil in the lamps is the Holy Spirit, who works through the Word to create and sustain the flame of faith in Christ. The foolish are those who do not give proper attention to the working of the Holy Spirit in baptism, preaching, and the supper, and so their faith does not endure. The wise, however, are those who diligently attend to these gifts of the Spirit, and who therefore have an abundance of oil. The flame of faith endures to the end. By God's grace they are received into the eternal wedding feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, the new heavens and the new earth created by the Lord for the joy of His people (Is. 65:17-25).
Introit: Ps. 130:1-2, 7-8; antiphon: Ps. 130:3-4 Gradual: Ps. 133:1, 3b Old Testament: Micah 6:6-8 Psalm 116:12-19 (antiphon: v. 13) Epistle: Phil. 1:3-11 ProperVerse: Ps. 147:3 Gospel: Matt. 18:21-35
Walking humbly with our God and forgiving one another With what shall we come before the Lord (Micah 6:6) who forgives all our sins, and how often shall our fellow Christians sin against us and we forgive them (Matt. 18:21)? Our gracious God on high does not need our "burnt offerings" or "thousands of rams" (Micah 6:6-7), which we could legitimately offer in thanksgiving. He is the Savior who gave His only-begotten Son for our transgression. He offers the fruit of His body, once hanging dead on a cross but now living and giving life in His holy Meal, for the sin of our souls (Micah 6:7). Because He releases us from our enormous debt of sin against Him, we need not imprison our fellow sinners with our lack of love and refusal of forgiveness (Matt. 18:24, 27, 30). As partakers of His grace, we yearn for one another "with the affection of Christ Jesus" (Phil. 1:8). As forgiven sinners, "filled with the fruit of Christ's righteousness," our "love may abound more and more, with knowledge and discernment" (Phil. 1:11, 9), for He leads us "to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with [our] God" (Micah 6:8).
First Reading: Revelation 7:(2-8) 9-17 Psalm 149 (antiphon: v. 4) Epistle: 1 John 3:1-3 Gospel: Matthew 5:1-12 Saints Are Blessed in the Eternal Presence of Christ
"A great multitude from all tribes and peoples and languages," cry out "salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne" (Rev. 7:9-17). Faith-filled saints from every place and time with unified voices eternally magnify the Lamb of God. As His beloved children, we too, "shall see him as he is" (1 John 3:1-3). Joined with the throng of angels and a myriad of saints, we shall "serve him day and night in his temple" (Rev. 7:9-17). In our earthly tension vacillating between saint and sinner, faith and doubt, sacred and profane, we earnestly seek Jesus to calm our fears, comfort our spirits, and forgive our sins. The Holy Spirit, through faith in Christ propels us forward, fortifying us in Word and Sacrament, to our eternal home. In the midst of our constant struggle as believers, we need to be blessed. And so we are. The poor in spirit, the meek, the hungry, the thirsty, the merciful, the pure, and the persecuted are all blessed and we will most certainly inherit the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:1-12).
First Reading: Revelation 14:6-7 Psalm 46 (antiphon: v. 7) Epistle: Romans 3:19-28 Gospel: John 8:31-36 or Matthew 11:12-19\r The Son of God Has Set Us Free from Sin and Death by His Grace "Wisdom is justified by her deeds" (Matt. 11:19), and the true Wisdom of God, Christ Jesus the incarnate Son, justifies us by His deeds. He prepares His way by the preaching of repentance, but He has suffered the violence of the Law and voluntarily handed Himself over to violent men, that we might eat and drink with Him in His Kingdom and "remain in the house forever" (John 8:35). For He is "a friend of tax collectors and sinners" (Matt. 11:19), and He has rescued us by His grace from the slavery of sin and death. By the proclamation of His eternal Gospel "to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people" (Rev. 14:6), "the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law" (Rom. 3:21), "that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus" (Rom. 3:26). And by hearing the Gospel of Christ Jesus, "whom God put forward as a propitiation by His blood, to be received by faith" (Rom. 3:25), "you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32).
New Testament: Acts 15:12-22a Psalm 133 (antiphon: v. 1) Epistle: James 1:1-12 Gospel: Matthew 13:54-58
St. James of Jerusalem, Brother of Jesus and Martyr "A prophet is not without honor except in His hometown and in His own household" (Matt. 13:58). James the Just was once offended at Jesus' wisdom and mighty works. But He came to faith following His resurrection, when Jesus appeared to Him (1 Cor. 15:7). He then became a leader of the early Church in Jerusalem, present at the council recorded in Acts 15. There James recognized from the prophets that Jesus was the Lord known from of old and returned to rebuild David's fallen tent and restore it, that the remnant of mankind may seek the Lord and all the Gentiles who are called by My Name (Acts 15:16-18). "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness" (James 1:2-3). Josephus and other historians record that James was martyred by stoning in the 60s AD. "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him" (v. 12).
Introit: Ps. 122:1, 6, 8-9; antiphon: Eccl. 36:16-17a Gradual: Ps. 122:1, 7 Old Testament: Deut. 10:12-21 Psalm 34:8-22 (antiphon: v. 19) Epistle: 1 Cor. 1:(1-3) 4-9 ProperVerse: Ps. 117:1 Gospel: Matt. 22:34-46
In Life and Death, Christ Fulfills the Law of God The Pharisees ask a Law question. Jesus asks a Gospel question. The Pharisees seek to test Jesus in His own words. Jesus seeks to "test" them in the saving reality of who He is as the Messiah (Matt. 22:34-46). The Law requires you to "fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul" and to "love the sojouner" (Deut. 10:12-21). Failure to keep the Law perfectly brings judgment. On the other hand, the Gospel brings the grace of God given by Jesus Christ, that you may be blameless in the day of His return (1 Cor. 1:1-9). Jesus is David's Son yet David's Lord, true God and true man. He is Love incarnate who fulfilled all the demands of God's Law on our behalf, that we might be saved from the Law's condemnation and sanctified in the Gospel's forgiveness. Thereby we see that "God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord" (1 Cor. 1:9).
Introit: Ps. 119:1-2, 5-6; antiphon: Ps. 119:137, 124 Gradual: Ps. 33:12, 6 Old Testament: Prov. 25:6-14 Psalm 2 (antiphon: v.11) Epistle: Eph. 4:1-6 ProperVerse: Ps. 116:1 Gospel: Luke 14:1-11 \rWhoever Humbles Himself Will Be Exalted "Do not put yourself forward in the king's presence" (Prov. 25:6-14). Rather, take the lowest position at the table. Humble yourself before Him. For your place is not for you to take but for Him to give. Conduct yourself with all lowliness and gentleness, bearing with one another in love (Eph. 4:1-6), that the King may give you glory in the presence of those at the table with you. "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 14:1-11). Is this not the way of Christ? He is the one who took the lowest place, who humbled Himself even to the point of death for us. He is now exalted to the highest place at the right hand of the Father that penitent believers may be exalted together with Him in the resurrection. To the humble at His Supper He says, "Friend, move up higher," giving you His very body and blood for your forgiveness that you may ascend to take part in the great wedding feast which has no end.
Jesus Calls forth Life from Death A large funeral procession carrying the only son of a widow is confronted by another large procession, Jesus and His followers. Death and Life meet face to face at the gate of the city (Luke 7:11-17). Filled with compassion, Jesus comes into direct contact with our mortality in order to overcome it. He touches the coffin and speaks His creative words of life, "Young man, I say to you, arise." Jesus does what is neither expected nor requested. For through Christ, God the Father "is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think" (Eph. 3:14-21). Jesus bore our death in His body that we may share in His resurrection. Even as Elijah stretched himself out three times over the Zarephath woman's son (2 Kings 17:17-24), God stretched Himself out over us in the threefold application of His name in the baptismal water, breathing new and everlasting life into us. "To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."
Introit: Ps. 86:4, 6, 15a, 16; antiphon: Ps. 86:1a, 2b, 3 Gradual: Ps. 118:8-9 Old Testament: 1 Kings 17:8-16 Psalm 146 (antiphon: v. 9a) Epistle: Gal. 5:25-6:10 ProperVerse: Ps. 95:1 Gospel: Matt. 6:24-34
Anxious Bondage vs. Confident Trust "You cannot serve God and money" (Matt. 6:24-34), for they require two contrary forms of service. Worry is the worship given to the false god of mammon, an unbelieving anxiousness and focus on the things of this world. Faith is the worship of the true God, a confident trust that He is a loving Father who will care for all of our needs in both body and soul. The widow of Zarephath served God- that is, she believed the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah that the bin of flour would not be used up nor would the jar of oil run dry (1 Kings 17:8-16). He who feeds the birds and clothes the flowers will certainly provide for our daily needs. For He has already provided for our eternal needs, clothing us with Christ's righteousness in Baptism and feeding us His body and blood for our forgiveness. With such confidence we are liberated from worry and freed to do good with our material resources, especially to those who are of the household of faith (Gal. 5:25-6:10).
Introit: Ps. 84: 1-2a, 4, 10b, 11b; antiphon: Ps. 84:9-10a\rGradual: Ps. 92:1-2 Old Testament: Prov. 4:10-23 Psalm 119:9-16 (antiphon: v. 12) Epistle: Gal. 5:16-24 ProperVerse: Ps. 65:1 Gospel: Luke 17:11-19
The Cry of Faith: Lord, Have Mercy The ten lepers cried out from a distance, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" (Luke 17:11-19). Their condition cut them off from God and others. So also do the works of the flesh cut us off from God and others. "Those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God" (Gal. 5:16-24). Thus we cry out with the lepers, "Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy; Lord, have mercy," eagerly seeking His good gifts. Jesus said to the lepers, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed. So too, we walk by faith and not by sight, being confident of Jesus' help before we see any evidence of it, trusting that Jesus' cleansing words of forgiveness will restore us to wholeness in the resurrection. Let us be as the one leper who returned to the true High Priest to give Him thanks and glory. For Jesus bore our infirmities in His sacrifice at Calvary. His words are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh (Prov. 4:10-23).
Introit: Ps. 74:1-2, 19b, 21b; antiphon: Ps. 74:20a, 21a, 22a, 23a Gradual: Ps. 77:14-15 Old Testament: 2 Chron. 28:8-15 Psalm 32 (antiphon: v. 2) Epistle: Gal. 3:15-22 ProperVerse: Ps. 88:1 Gospel: Luke 10:23-37
Jesus Is Our Good Samaritan The Law cannot help us or give us life. Rather, it confines everyone under sin as wounded and naked before God (Gal. 3:15-22). So it is that two figures of the Law, the priest and the Levite, passed by the injured man on the side of the road (Luke 10:23-37). Only the promised Seed of Abraham can rescue us and make us righteous before God. Only the Samaritan, our Lord Jesus, had compassion, as did the Samaritans of old (2 Chronicles 28:8-15). He came down to us in our lost and dying condition, pouring on the oil and wine of the Sacraments. He placed us on His own animal, bearing our sin and brokenness in His body on the cross to restore us. Jesus brought us to the inn, that is, the Church, and gave the innkeeper two denarii, that His double forgiveness might continue to be ministered to us. In this way the Lord, by whose Law we are torn and stricken, heals us and revives us by His Gospel and raises us up with Himself.
Introit: Ps. 70:2b, 4a, 5b; antiphon: Ps. 70:1-2a Gradual: Ps. 34:1-2 Old Testament: Is. 29:17-24 Psalm 146 (antiphon: v. 8) Epistle: 2 Cor. 3:4-11 or Rom. 10:9-16 ProperVerse: Ps. 81:1 Gospel: Mark 7:31-37
Faith Comes from Hearing A man who was deaf and therefore also had an impediment in his speech was brought to Jesus (Mark 7:31-37). In the same way, all are by nature deaf toward God and therefore also unable to confess the faith rightly. For "faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ" (Rom. 10:9-17). Jesus put His fingers into the man's ears, and He spat and touched His tongue. Even so in Holy Baptism, water sanctified by the words of Jesus' mouth is applied to us; and the finger of God, that is, the life-giving Holy Spirit (2 Cor. 3:4-11) is put into our ears in the hearing of the baptismal Gospel. Jesus' sighing "Ephphatha" opened the man's ears, and his tongue was loosed to speak plainly as Isaiah prophesied of the Messiah, "In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book" (Is. 29:18-24) So also, He who sighed and breathed His last on the cross for us has given us to hear and believe in Him and has opened our lips that our mouths may declare His praise.
Introit: Ps. 54:1-3, 7; antiphon: Ps. 54:4-5 Gradual: Ps. 8:1 Old Testament: 2 Sam. 22:26-34 Psalm 51:1-12 (antiphon: v. 18) Epistle: 1 Cor. 10:6-13 ProperVerse: Ps. 112:1 Gospel: Luke 16:1-9 (10-13)
The Steward's Shrewdness Sanctified "The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness" (Luke 16:1-9). The steward's shrewdness is praiseworthy for two reasons. First, he knew the master would be merciful. He trusted that the master would honor the debts he forgave in the master's name. In the same way, though we have squandered our heavenly Father's possessions in selfishness and sin, Jesus is the Steward who has canceled our debt, knowing that His forgiveness will be honored by the Father because of the holy cross. Secondly, the steward was shrewd in using oil and wheat to provide for his earthly welfare. So also do these earthly elements aid us when pressed into heavenly use in the anointing of baptism and the wheat of the Lord's Supper. Those who have the Sacraments will have an eternal home when their earthly home fails. These provide us aid in times of temptation (1 Cor. 10:6-13). For the Lord is our strength and a shield to all who trust in Him (2 Sam. 22:26-34).
Introit: Ps. 48:1, 3, 11, 14; antiphon: Ps. 48:9-10 Gradual: Ps. 31:2b,1a Old Testament: Jer. 23:16-29 Psalm 26 (antiphon: v. 12) NT or Ep: Acts 20:27-38 or Rom. 8:12-17 ProperVerse: Ps. 78:1 Gospel: Matt. 7:15-23
Beware of False Prophets "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves" (Matt. 7:15). Deceit has its strength in masquerading as the truth. False prophets speak a vision of their own heart, not from the mouth of the Lord (Jer. 23:16-29). They deny the judgment of the Lord, speaking peace to the unrepentant, when in truth there is condemnation and wrath. "You will recognize them by their fruits" (Matt. 7:20). The "fruits" of a true prophet are not outward righteousness or success but faithfulness in proclaiming the Word of the Lord. This is the will of the Father in heaven, that pastors take heed to the flock, the Father's adopted ones (Rom. 8:12-17), warning them against the wolves and their lies, and shepherding the Church of God which He purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:27-38). For indeed, the cross is that good tree bearing good fruit-namely, the body and blood of Christ, given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.
Introit: Ps. 47:3, 6-8; antiphon: Ps. 47:1-2 Gradual: Ps. 34:11, 5 Old Testament: Gen. 2:7-17 Psalm 33:1-11 (antiphon: v. 6) Epistle: Rom. 6:19-23 ProperVerse: Ps. 47:1 Gospel: Mark 8:1-9
Jesus Restores Paradise and Feeds Us Freely In the Garden of Eden, our first parents received food freely from the gracious hand of God, apart from any burdensome work (Gen 2:7-17). But after the fall, food would be received only through toil and labor. The curse declared, "By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground . . ." (Gen. 3:19). In other words, "The wages of sin is death" (Rom. 6:23). But into this wilderness world came Jesus the Messiah to restore creation. Having compassion on the weary multitudes, He renewed the bounty of Eden on the third day, freely granting an abundance of bread to the 4,000 (Mark 8:1-9). So also our Lord Jesus, having endured the burden of our sin, was raised on the third day to bring us back to Paradise. He now miraculously turns the bread of death into the Bread of Life in the Sacrament, giving you His very body and blood for your forgiveness. For "the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Rom. 6:23).
Introit: Ps. 28:1-2, 7; antiphon: Ps. 28:8-9 Gradual: Ps. 90:13, 1, 2b Old Testament: Ex. 20:1-17 Psalm 19 (antiphon: v. 8) Epistle: Rom. 6:(1-2) 3-11 ProperVerse: Ps. 31:1 Gospel: Matt. 5:(17-19) 20-26
Our Only Hope Is in Christ's Righteousness "Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matt 5:20). God demands nothing less than perfection and holiness from you in regard to His commandments (Ex. 20:1-17). Your only hope, then, is not in your own goodness but in the goodness of Christ, who did not come to destroy the Law and the Prophets, but to fulfill them for you. In Christ, your righteousness does indeed exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees. For you have been baptized into Christ's death and your sinful nature crucified. Therefore, he who has died has been freed from sin (Rom. 6:1-11). You are now raised with Christ to walk in newness of life and to share in His resurrection on the Last Day. Christ has brought you through the baptismal sea "out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery" (Ex. 20:2). Therefore, "consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus" (Rom. 6:11).
Introit: Ps. 27:1a, 11-12, 14; Ps. 27:7, 9 Gradual: Ps. 84:9, 8 Old Testament: 1 Kings 19:11-21 Psalm 16 (antiphon, v. 11) Epistle: 1 Cor. 1:18-25 or 1 Peter 3:8-15 ProperVerse: Ps. 21:1 Gospel: Luke 5:1-11
Jesus Makes Fishers of Men The Lord called fishermen to be fishers of men (Luke 5:1-11). The net they would use is the message of the cross, which is foolishness and a stumbling block to the world (1 Cor. 1:18-25). The power of God to save is not in spectacular signs like wind and fire and earthquakes (1 Kings 19:11-21), nor is it to be found in human intelligence and wisdom. The power of God to save comes in the still, small voice of the preaching of Christ crucified. In worldly darkness the disciples could catch nothing. But in the light of Christ, whose Word was attached to the water, the boats were filled with fish. So it is that in Baptism you have been drawn in to the ship of the Church. Though the nets are breaking and some who hear the Word do not believe, pastors continue to cast the net of the Gospel and the Sacraments, that Christians may abide in the boat of the Church and that we may be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:8-15).
Introit: Ps. 27:3-4a, 5; antiphon: Ps. 27:1-2 Gradual: Ps. 79:9-10a Old Testament: Gen. 50:15-21 Psalm 138 (antiphon: v. 8b) Epistle: Rom. 12:14-21 or Rom. 8:18-23 ProperVerse: Ps. 9:4b, 9 Gospel: Luke 6:36-42
Christ's Mercy Is Ours to Show to Others "Be merciful, even as your Father also is merciful" (Luke 6:36-42). The old Adam in us wants to condemn and seek vengeance. But the Lord says, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay" (Rom. 12:14-21). To condemn, to avenge yourself, is to put yourself in the place of God. It is to fail to trust that He is just. Ultimately, it is to disbelieve that Jesus suffered the full vengeance for all wrongs. Only Christ is merciful as the Father is merciful. He is the one who overcame all evil with the good of His cross, forgiving even His executioners. Jesus is our Joseph, who comforts us with words of pardon and reconciliation (Gen. 50:15-21). He is the One who does not condemn but gives life that runs over. Only through faith in Christ are we sons of the Father-being merciful, forgiving, doing good to our enemies. For in Christ we know that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Rom. 8:8-13).
Introit: Ps. 25:1-2a, 5b, 15, 20; antiphon: Ps. 25:16, 18\rGradual: Ps. 55:22a, 16, 18a Old Testament: Micah 7:18-20 Psalm 103:1-13 (antiphon: v. 8) Epistle: 1 Tim. 1:12-17 or 1 Peter 5:6-11\rProperVerse: Ps. 18:1-2a Gospel: Luke 15:1-10 or Luke 15:11-32\r Jesus Receives Sinners "This man receives sinners and eats with them" (Luke 15:2). The Pharisees' statement of judgment against Jesus is in fact a proclamation of Gospel truth. For our God is one who delights in mercy, who casts all our sins into the depths of the sea through the cross (Micah 7:18-20). "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" (1 Tim. 1:15). Those who refuse to be counted as sinners also refuse Jesus who came only for sinners. Those like the older son (Luke 15:11-32), who think they are righteous of themselves, will not join in the heavenly celebration over the sinner who repents and so remain outside of the Father's house. Let us therefore be on guard against self-righteously trusting in our own merits. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you" (1 Peter 5:6). Rejoice that Jesus receives sinners like us and that He still sits at table with us in the Holy Supper, bestowing His forgiveness and life.
Introit: Ps. 18:1-2a, 27, 30a, 49; antiphon: Ps. 18:18-19\rGradual: Ps. 120:1-2 Old Testament: Prov. 9:1-10 Psalm 34:12-22 (antiphon: v. 11) Epistle: Eph. 2:13-22 or 1 John 3:13-18 ProperVerse: Ps. 7:17 Gospel: Luke 14:15-24
The Gospel Call Goes Out to All\rWisdom has issued an invitation to the divine feast: "Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight" (Prov. 9:5-6). This is the call of the Spirit of Christ to believe the Gospel and to receive His saving gifts in the Holy Supper. Many make excuses and reject this invitation, even as the Jews did in the days of Jesus, yet the Master's house will be filled. The Gospel call therefore goes out to the lowly and despised, into the highways, even to all the Gentiles (Luke 14:15-24). For "you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ" (Eph. 2:13-22). In Christ, believing Jews and Gentiles are no longer strangers but fellow members of the household of God. The enmity of class and race is put to death through the cross. Having been reconciled in the one Body of Christ, we are enabled to love one another (1 John 3:13-18) as we await the marriage feast of the Lamb in His kingdom which will have no end.
Introit: Ps. 13:1-4; antiphon: Ps. 13:5-6 Gradual: Ps. 41:4, 1 Old Testament: Gen. 15:1-6 Psalm 33:12-22 (antiphon: v. 20) Epistle: 1 John 4:16-21 ProperVerse: Ps. 7:1 Gospel: Luke 16:19-31
Faith Trusts in Christ for Life Eternal When the beggar Lazarus died, he was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. For he was truly Abraham's seed. Like Abraham, he believed in the Lord, and the Lord "counted it to him as righteousness" (Gen. 15:6). The name Lazarus means "God is my help." The unnamed rich man, on the other hand, did not love and trust in God. For he evidently cared little for the beggar at his gate. And "he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen" (1 John 4:20). He who loved and trusted in possessions and prestige died and was in torments in Hades (Luke 16:19-31). Repentance and faith are worked only through Moses and the prophets-that is, the Word of God, for it points us to Christ. Only through His death and resurrection are we brought the comfort of life everlasting.
Introit: Ps. 8:1-2a, 3-5; antiphon: Liturgical Text Gradual: Song of the Three Children, 32-34 Old Testament: Is. 6:1-7 Psalm 29 (antiphon: v. 2) Epistle: Rom. 11:33-36 ProperVerse: Song of the Three Children, 29 Gospel: John 3:1-15(16-17)
The Holy Trinity Reveals Himself to Sinners When Isaiah beheld the glory of the Lord, he cried out "Woe is me!" For the sinner cannot stand in the presence of a holy God and live (Is. 6:1-7). But God the Father lifted up His Son Jesus for us on the cross, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. This eternal life of Christ is given us according to the Holy Spirit's good pleasure in Baptism. "Unless one is born [again] of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God" (John 3:5). To sinners in fear of death, the messengers of God place on our lips the living body and blood of Christ and speak His words of absolution, "Your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for" (Is. 6:7). Having received forgiveness and life from the Father through the Son by the Holy Spirit, we join with the angels in praising the blessed Trinity, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts!" (Is. 6:3). "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen" (Rom. 11:33-36).
Introit: Ps. 68:1, 4a,c, 11a, 33b, 35; antiphon: Wisdom 1:7a; Ps. 68:3 Old Testament: Gen. 11:1-9 Psalm 143 (antiphon: v. 11)\rNew Testament: Acts 2:1-21 ProperVerse: Ps. 104:30, Liturgical text Gospel: John 14:23-31
The Holy Spirit Gives Peace Following the flood, Noah's descendants failed to spread out and fill the earth as God had spoken. Rather, they exalted themselves; with "one language and the same words" (Gen. 11:1) they spoke proudly and arrogantly. The Lord humbled them by confusing "the language of all the earth," dividing and dispersing the people (Gen. 11:9). That dispersal was reversed on Pentecost Day (the fiftieth day of Easter), when God caused the one Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ to be preached in a multitude of languages. "At this sound the multitude came together" (Acts 2:6), for the preaching of Christ is the primary work of the Holy Spirit, whereby He gathers people from all nations into one Church. The Holy Spirit teaches and brings to our remembrance the words of Jesus, which are the words of the Father who sent Him. These words bestow forgiveness and peace to those who keep and hold on to them in love for Jesus. "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." (John 14:27).
Exaudi Introit: Ps. 27:1, 11a, 12; antiphon: Ps. 27:7a, 8b, 9a Old Testament: Ezek. 36:22-28 Psalm 51:1-12 (antiphon: v. 10) Epistle: 1 Peter 4:7-11(12-14) ProperVerse: Ps. 47:8, John 14:18a, 28, 16:22 Gospel: John 15:26-16:4
The Spirit of Truth Bears Witness to Jesus The Spirit of Truth bears witness to Jesus, who is the truth. But the world does not receive the truth. It loves its own and hates those who are of the truth. Just as Jesus was scorned, so is His Church. "The hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God" (John 16:2). Yet it is by Jesus' suffering and death that we are saved. Therefore we rejoice to share in His sufferings, that we may also share in His resurrection glory (1 Pet. 4:7-14). Through the ministry of the Spirit of Truth, we are cleansed from the deceit of our idols and given a new heart and a new spirit, the heart and Spirit of Christ (Ezek. 36:22-28). He now works in us fervent, self-giving love for one another, love which covers a multitude of sins, "that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen" (1 Pet. 4:11).
Rogate Introit: Ps. 66:1-2a, 17, 19-20; antiphon: Is. 48:20b Old Testament: Num. 21:4-9 Psalm 107:1-9 (antiphon: v. 19) Epistle: 1 Tim. 2:1-6 or James 1:22-27 ProperVerse: Liturgical text, John 16:28 Gospel: John 16:23-30 (31-33)
The Father Answers Our Prayers Because of Jesus "Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you" (John 16:23). To pray in Jesus' name is to pray as one who has been baptized. For it is in the water that He put His name upon you, claiming you as His own, making you a son of God with access to the Father. By His incarnation and crucifixion, our Lord Jesus broke through the barrier of sin which separated us from God, opening a portal to the Father. To pray in Jesus' name is to pray with faith in Him as the one Mediator between God and men, who gave Himself a ransom for all (1 Tim. 2:1-6). Like Moses in the wilderness, Jesus is our go-between and intercessor before the throne of heaven. He was lifted up for us on the cross that we might be saved and restored to fellowship with the Father (Num. 21:4-9). Looking into this perfect teaching of liberty (James 1:22-27) we pray with boldness and confidence as dear children of God.
Cantate Introit: Ps. 98:1b, 3-4; antiphon: Ps. 98:1a,2b Old Testament: Is. 12:1-6 Psalm 66:1-8 (antiphon: v. 5) Epistle: James 1:16-21 ProperVerse: Ps. 118:16, Romans 6:9 Gospel: John 16:5-15
Jesus Promises to Send His Holy Spirit, the Helper Though Jesus has departed from us visibly to the right hand of the Father who sent Him, yet this is to our advantage. For Jesus-who is Lord over all creation, who intercedes for us before the Father, who is preparing a place for us in heaven-has sent the Helper, the Spirit of Truth (John 16:5-15). "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights" through Jesus Christ (James 1:17). The Holy Spirit helps us by taking what is Christ's and declaring it to us. In the Word of truth, the Spirit works repentance and delivers to us the forgiveness of sins, the righteousness of Christ, and victory over the devil. For the ruler of this world is judged and defeated by the cross. Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, we have been brought forth to new life in Him who is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. Confident of our resurrection with Christ we confess, "Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid" (Is. 12:2).
Jubilate Introit: Ps. 66:3, 5, 8-9; antiphon: Ps. 66:1-2\rOld Testament: Is. 40:25-31 or Lam. 3:22-33 Psalm 147:1-11 (antiphon: v. 5) Epistle: 1 Peter 2:11-20 or 1 John 3:1-3 ProperVerse: Ps. 111:9a, Luke 24:26 Gospel: John 16:16-22
Those Who Wait on the Lord Shall Rejoice The people of God are pilgrims and sojourners in this world, looking ahead to a destination yet to come (1 Peter 2:11-20). Though we are now children of God, the fullness of what we shall be has not yet been revealed (1 John 3:1-3). We are those who wait on the Lord. "The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul who seeks him" (Lam. 3:25). Jesus tells us that the wait is just a little while. "A little while, and you will see me no longer; and again a little while, and you will see me" (John 16:16). Though you must experience sorrow for a time, though you must live as strangers in a world that is at enmity with Christ, yet your sorrow will be turned to joy when He returns. "But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength" (Is. 40:31). The little while of weeping shall be replaced with an eternity of rejoicing in the presence of Christ the crucified and risen Savior. "And no one will take your joy from you" (John 16:22).
Misericordias Domini Introit: Ps. 33:1, 18-20; antiphon: Ps. 33:5b, 6a Old Testament: Ezek. 34:11-16 Psalm 23 (antiphon: v. 6) Epistle: 1 Peter 2:21-25 ProperVerse: Luke 24:35b, John 10:14 Gospel: John 10:11-16
The Good Shepherd Cares for His Sheep Our Lord Jesus is the Good Shepherd (John 10:11-16). He is not like the hireling, who cares nothing for the sheep and only for himself, who flees when he sees the wolf coming. Rather, Jesus is the Good Shepherd who seeks out His scattered sheep to deliver them (Ezek. 34:11-16). He gathers them and feeds them in rich pasture. He binds up the broken and strengthens the sick. He lays down His life for wandering and wayward sheep. On the cross, Christ bore in His body the attacks of the predators of sin and death and the devil for you that you might be saved. He now lives to restore your soul in the still waters of baptism, to lead you in the paths of righteousness by the voice of His Gospel, to prepare the table of His holy supper before you, that you may dwell in the house of the Lord forever (Psalm 23). "For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls" (1 Peter 2:25).
Quasimodo Geniti Introit: Ps. 81:1, 7a, 10, 16b; antiphon: 1 Peter 2:2a Old Testament: Ezek. 37:1-14 Psalm 33 (antiphon: v. 6)\rEpistle: 1 John 5:4-10 ProperVerse: Matt. 28:7b, John 20:26a, c Gospel: John 20:19-31
The Wounds of Christ Give Us Life "For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood" (1 John 5:7). These three point to Christ and flow from Christ. Jesus shows His disciples His hands side, from which blood and water flowed, saying "Peace be with you." He presents the wounds which turn our fear to gladness and which restore us to the Father. Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, "Receive the Holy Spirit" (John 20:23). His breath, His words are Spirit and life. They raise up our dry, dead bones and give us new and everlasting life (Ezek. 37:1-14). Christ now gives His ministers to speak His forgiving, Spirit-filled words to the penitent in His stead. Our Lord continues to come to His people, presenting His wounds to us in the Sacraments of water and blood. He bids us to touch His side at His table, to receive His risen body and blood in true faith, that believing we may have life in His name.
Introit: Ps. 8:1, 5-6, 9; antiphon: Luke 24:5-7 Gradual: Ps. 118:24,1 Old Testament: Job 19:23-27 Psalm 118:15-29 (antiphon: v. 1) New Testament: 1 Cor. 5:6-8 or 1 Cor. 15:51-57 ProperVerse: 1 Cor. 5:7b-8a, c Gospel: Mark 16:1-8
Christ's Resurrection Means That We Will One Day Be Raised "Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed" (1 Cor. 5:7). By the shed blood of Christ, the Lamb of God, eternal death has passed over us. Now we pass with Christ through death into life everlasting. For Christ the crucified One is risen! The stone has been rolled away from the tomb, revealing that the tomb could not hold Him (Mark 16:1-8). Now our Redeemer lives eternally to save us from sin and Satan and the grave, and we can live in the sure hope of our own bodily resurrection with Christ. "After my skin has been thus destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God" (Job 19:26). Feasting on the living Christ, who is our meat and drink indeed, we boldly say: "O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? . . . But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Cor. 15:54-55, 57).
Introit: Ps. 67:1-3, 6b-7; antiphon: Gal 6:14b, Liturgical text Gradual: Ps. 111:4-5 Old Testament: Ex. 12:1-14 or Ex. 24:3-11 Psalm 116:12-19 (antiphon: v. 17) Epistle: 1 Cor. 11:23-32 Tract: Ps. 111:4-5; John 6:55-56 Gospel: John 13:1-15 (34-35)
Let Us Love One Another, as Christ Jesus Has Loved Us "For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes" (1 Cor. 11:26). By eating His body and drinking His blood, we proclaim to all the world that Jesus is, indeed, our Passover Lamb (Ex. 12:1-14), who was sacrificed for us on Calvary. In Christ, the Lord remembers us in mercy and remembers our sin no more; He forgives us all our iniquity. With such love, he "loved His own who were in the world," and even loves us "to the end" (John 13:1). As He washes us and feeds us in love, let us love one another, just as He has loved us (John 13:34).
Palmarum Processional Gospel: Matt. 21:1-9 or John 12:12-19 Introit: Ps. 22:1, 7-8, 11; antiphon: Ps. 22:19, 21 Gradual: Ps. 73:23b-24, 1 Old Testament: Zech. 9:9-12 Psalm 118:19-29 (antiphon: v. 26) or Psalm 31:9-16 (antiphon: v. 5) Epistle: Phil. 2:5-11 Tract: Ps. 22:1, 4, 5 Gospel: Matt. 26:1-27:66 or Matt. 27:11-54
The Cross and Passion of Our Lord Are the Hour of His Glory "Behold, your King is coming to you . . . humble and mounted on a donkey" (Zech. 9:9-12; Mt. 21:1-9). Our Lord rides in this humble fashion because He is entering Jerusalem to humble Himself even to the point of death on a cross (Phil. 2:5-11). His kingly crown will not be made of gold but of thorns, the sign of sin's curse. For His royal reign is displayed in bearing this curse for His people, saving us from our enemies by sacrificing His own life. The sinless One takes the place of the sinner so that the sinner can be freed and bear the name "Barabbas," "son of the Father" (Matthew 26 and 27). It is at the name of this exalted Savior, Jesus, that we bow in humble faith. With the centurion who declared, "Truly this was the Son of God!" (Mt. 27:54), we are also given to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Phil. 2:11).
Judica Introit: Ps. 43: 3-5; antiphon: Ps. 43:1-2a Gradual: Ps. 143:9a, 10a; 18:48a,c Old Testament: Gen. 22:1-14 Psalm 43 (antiphon: v. 5) Epistle: Heb. 9:11-15 Tract: Ps. 129:1-4 Gospel: John 8:(42-45) 46-59
Jesus Is Our Redemption In the temple Jesus said, "If anyone keeps my word, he will never see death" (John 8:51). For Jesus came to taste death for us-to drink the cup of suffering to the dregs in order that we might be released from its power. Clinging to His life-giving words, we are delivered from death's sting and its eternal judgment. Christ is our High Priest, who entered the Most Holy Place and with His own blood obtained everlasting redemption for His people (Heb. 9:11-15). He is the One who was before Abraham was, and yet is his descendant. He is the promised Son who carries the wood up the mountain for the sacrifice, who is bound and laid upon the altar of the cross. He is the ram who is offered in our place, who is willingly caught in the thicket of our sin, and who wears the crown of thorns upon His head (Gen. 22:1-14). Though Jesus is dishonored by the sons of the devil, He is vindicated by the Father through the cross.
Laetare Introit: Ps. 122:1-2, 6, 8; antiphon: Isaiah 66:10a, 11a Gradual: Ps. 122:1, 7 Old Testament: Ex. 16:2-21 or Is. 49:8-13 Psalm 132:8-18 (antiphon: v. 13) Epistle: Gal. 4:21-31 or Acts 2:41-47 Tract: Ps. 125:1-2, 5b Gospel: John 6:1-15
The Lord Feeds His People The Lord provided bread from heaven for His people in the wilderness (Ex. 16:2-21). Now He who is Himself the living bread from heaven miraculously provides bread for the five thousand (John 6:1-15). This takes place near the time of the Passover, after a great multitude had followed Jesus across the sea, and when He went up on a mountain. Seen in this way, Jesus is our new and greater Moses, who releases us from the bondage of Mount Sinai and makes us free children of the promise (Gal. 4:21-31). Five loaves become twelve baskets-that is, the five books of Moses find their goal and fulfillment in Christ, whose people continue steadfastly in the doctrine and fellowship of the twelve apostles, and in the breaking and receiving of the bread of life, which is the body of Christ together with His precious blood, and in the prayers (Acts 2:41-47). So it is that God's people "shall not hunger or thirst" (Is. 49:8-13). For He abundantly provides for us in both body and soul.
Oculi Introit: Ps. 25:1-2, 17-18, 20; antiphon: Ps. 25:15-16 Gradual: Ps. 9:19, 3 Old Testament: Ex. 8:16-24 or Jer. 26:1-15 Psalm 136:1-16 (antiphon: v. 26) or Psalm 4 (antiphon: v. 8) Epistle: Eph. 5:1-9 Tract: Ps. 123:1-3a Gospel: Luke 11:14-28
Jesus Overcomes the Strong Man Jeremiah was charged with speaking evil when he spoke the Word of the Lord (Jer. 26:1-15). So also, Jesus is accused of doing evil when in fact He is doing good. He casts out a demon from a mute man so that he is able to speak (Luke 11:14-28). But some said Jesus did this by the power of Beelzebub, Satan. Like Pharaoh of old, their hearts were hard (Ex. 8:16-24). They did not recognize the finger of God, the power of the Holy Spirit at work in and through Jesus. Jesus is the Stronger Man who overcomes the strong man. He takes the devil's armor of sin and death and destroys it from the inside out by the holy cross. He exorcizes and frees us by water and the Word. We were once darkness, but now we are light in Christ the Lord (Eph. 5:1-9). As children of light, our tongues are loosed to give thanks to Him who saved us.
Invocavit (Lent 1)
3/6/22
Gen 3:1–21 Psalm 32 2 Cor. 6:1–10 Matt. 4:1–11
DS 3
423 Jesus Refuge of the Weary 657 A Mighty Fortress is our God 418 O Lord Throughout These Forty Days 770 What a Friend We have in Jesus
Choir - When I survey (Voluntary)
Quinquagesima (Pre-Lent 3)
2/27/22
1 Sam. 16:1–13 Psalm 89:18–29 1 Cor. 13:1–13 Luke 18:31–43
DS 3
744 Amazing Grace 849 Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness 618 I come O Savior to thy Table 924 Lord Dismiss Us With Your Blessing
Sexagesima (Pre-Lent 2)
2/20/22
Is. 55:10–13 Psalm 84 2 Cor. 11:19—12:9 Luke 8:4–15
DS 3 655 Lord Keep us steadfast in your word 824 May God Bestow on Us His Grace 589 Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens
Church Year Date Texts Service Hymns Notes Transfiguration 2/6/22
Ex 34:29-35 Ps. 2 2 Peter 1:16-21 Mt 17:1-9
DS 3
403 O Savior of Our Fallen Race 413 O wondrous type! O vision fair 414 Tis Good, Lord, to Be Here 417 Alleluia, Song of Gladness
Epiphany 4 1/30/21
Jonah 1:1–17 Psalm 96 Rom. 13:8–10 Matt. 8:23–27
DS 3
575 My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less 557 Seek Where You May to Find a Way 617 O Lord We Praise Thee 824 May God Bestow on Us His Grace
Christmas 2 1/2/21
Gen. 46:1–7 Psalm 77:11–20 1 Peter 4:12–19 Matt. 2:13–23
DS 3
380 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing 385 From East to West 389 Let All Together Praise Our God 387 Joy to the World
St. Stephen, Martyr
12/26/21
2 Chron. 24:17-22 Ps. 119:137-144 Acts 6:8-7:2a, 51-60 Matthew 23:34-39
DS 3
380 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Gospel Procession - 517 (sts. 1, 7, 3) 661 The Son of God Goes Forth to War 644 The Church's One Foundation 372 O Jesus Christ, Thy Manger Is
Choir - Gospel Procession/Recession
The Nativity of Our Lord
12/25/21
Ex. 40:17–21, 34–38 Psalm 2 Titus 3:4–7 John 1:1–18
DS 3
358 From heav'n above to earth I come (1-5) 384 Of the Father's Love begotten 358 From heav'n above to earth I come (6-10) 358 From heav'n above to earth I come (11-15)
Christmas Eve 12/24/21
Is. 9:2-7 Titus 2:11-14 Luke 2:1-20
DS 3 (See Notes)
Solo, Choir, Cong. - 376 Once in Royal David's City Choir - 370 What Child Is This? 368 Angels We Have Heard on High 379 O Come, All Ye Faithful 363 Silent Night
Rorate Coeli (Advent 4) 12/19/21 Deut. 18:15–19 Psalm 111 Phil. 4:4–7 John 1:19–28 DS 3 344 On Jordan's Bank, the Baptist's Cry 357 O Come, O come Emmanuel 346 When All the World Was Cursed 334 O Lord How Shall I meet You
Gaudete (Advent 3) 12/12/21 Is. 40:1–11 Psalm 85 1 Cor. 4:1–5 Matt. 11:2–11 DS 3 347 Comfort, Comfort Ye My People 345 Hark! A Thrilling voice is sounding 357 O Come, O Come Emmanuel 803 Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee
Populus Zion (Advent 2)
12/5/21
Mal. 4:1–6 Psalm 50:1–15 Rom. 15:4–13 Luke 21:25–36
DS 3
516 Wake Awake For Night is Flying 336 Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending 350 Come Thou Precious Ransom Come 340 Lift Up Your Head, Ye Mighty Gates
Ad Te Levavi (Advent 1)
11/28/21
Jer. 23:5–8 Psalm 24 Rom. 13:8–14 Matt. 21:1–9
DS 3
334 - O Lord How Shall I Meet You 332 Savior of the Nations, Come 331 The Advent Of Our King 343 Prepare the Royal Highway
Thanksgiving Eve
11/24/21
Deut. 26:1-11 Psalm 65 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 Luke 12:13-21
DS 1
892 Come, Ye Thankful People, Come 894 For the Fruits of His Creation 790 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty 895 Now Thank We All Our God
Choir Voluntary: Thank You
Last Sunday of the Church Year
11/21/21
Is. 65:17–25 Psalm 149 1 Thess. 5:1–11 Matt. 25:1–13
DS 1
338 Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus 516 Wake, Awake for Night is Flying 633 At the Lambs High Feast We Sing 508 The Day is Surely Drawing Near
Choir Voluntary: Grace Alone
Trinity 24 11/14/21 Is. 51:9–16 Psalm 126 Col. 1:9–14 Matt. 9:18–26 DS 1 734 I Trust O Lord Your Holy Name 755 In the Very Midst of Life 761 Rock of Ages Cleft for Me 510 A Multitude Comes LWML SUNDAY; Choir Voluntary: Serve the Lord with Gladness
All Saints Day (Observed)
11/7/21
Rev. 7:2–17 Psalm 149 1 John 3:1–3 Matt. 5:1–12
DS 1
672 Jerusalem the Golden 677 For All the Saints Gospel Procession - Cantor 670 Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones 676 Behold a Host, Arrayed in White
Gospel Procession: Alleluia and Verse - Meyers Cantor for Verse; Choir - Voluntary: I Sing a Song of the Saints of God
Reformation Day 10/31/21
Rev. 14:6–7 Psalm 46 Rom. 3:19–28 John 8:31–36
DS 1
555 Salvation unto Us Has Come (st. 1-5) Choir: Gospel Procession: 582 657 A Mighty Fortress Is Our God 655 Lord, Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word 555 Salvation unto Us Has Come (st. 6-10)
Trinity 21 10/24/21
Gen. 1:1—2:3 Psalm 8 Eph. 6:10–17 John 4:46–54
DS 1
578 Thy Strong Word 668 Rise! To Arms! With Prayer Employ You 618 I Come O Savior 924 Lord, Dismiss Us with Your Blessing
Trinity 20 10/17/21
Isaiah 55:1–9 Psalm 27:1–9 Eph. 5:15–21 Matt. 22:1–14
DS 1
915 Today Your Mercy Calls Us 828 We Are Called to Stand Together 609 Jesus Sinners Doth Recieve 827 Hark the Voice of Jesus Calling
Trinity 19 10/10/21
Gen. 28:10–17 Psalm 84 Eph. 4:22–28 Matt. 9:1–8
DS 1
686 Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing 708 Lord, Thee I love with all my heart 611 Chief of Sinners 716 I Walk in Danger
Trinity 18 10/3/21
Deut. 10:12–21 Psalm 34:8–22 1 Cor. 1:1–9 Matt. 22:34–46
DS 1
842 Son of God Eternal Savior 694 The will I love, my strength, my tower 617 O Lord, We Praise Thee 708 Lord, Thee I Love with All My Heart
Trinity 17 9/26/21
Prov. 25:6–14 Psalm 2 Eph. 4:1–6 Luke 14:1–11
DS 1
578 Thy Strong Word (Congregation and Choir) 557 Seek where you may to find a way 628 Your Table I Approach 707 Oh That the Lord Would Guid My Ways
Trinity 16 9/19/21
1 Kings 17:17–24 Psalm 30 Eph. 3:13–21 Luke 7:11–17
DS 1
700 Love Divine All Love Excelling 758 The will of God is always best 641 You Satisfy the Hungry Heart 744 Amazing Grace
Trinity 15 9/12/21
1 Kings 17:8–16 Psalm 146 Gal. 5:25—6:10 Matt. 6:24–34
DS 1
781 We Give Thee But Thine Own 760 What God ordains is always good (Choir) 730 What Is the World To Me 783 Take My Life and Let it Be
Choir (760 - Hymn of Day)
Trinity 14 9/5/21
Prov. 4:10–23 Psalm 119:9–16 Gal. 5:16–24 Luke 17:11–19
DS 1
705 The Man is Ever Blessed 849 Praise the One who breaks the darkness 619 Thy Body Given for Me O Savior 895 Now Thank We All Our God
The Martyrdom of St. John the Baptist
8/29/21
Rev. 6:9–11 Psalm 71:1–8 Rom. 6:1–5 Mark 6:14–29
DS 1
661 The Son of God goes forth to war 750 If Thou but trust in God to Guide Thee 594 God's Own Child, I Gladly Say It 742 For Me to Live is Jesus
Choir: Gospel Procession - LSB 346 When All the World was Cursed
Trinity 12 8/22/21
Is. 29:17–24 Psalm 146 2 Cor. 3:4–11 Mark 7:31–37
DS 1
849 Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness 545 Word of God, come down on earth 528 Oh For a Thousand Tongues to Sing 905 Come Thou Almighty King
St. Mary, Mother of Our Lord 8/15/21 Is. 61:7–11 Psalm 45: 10–17 Gal. 4:4–7 Luke 1:39–55 DS 1 356 The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came Gospel Procession: Choir (Magnificat) 670 Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones 617 O Lord we Praise Thee 387 Joy to the World Choir: Gospel Procession - LSB 934 My Soul Magnifies the Lord
Trinity 10 8/8/21
Jer. 8:4–12 Psalm 92 1 Cor. 12:1–11 Luke 19:41–48
DS 1
655 Lord, keep us steadfast in Your Word 644 The Church's one foundation 540 Christ the Word of God Incarnate 643 Sent Forth By God's Blessing
Trinity 9 8/1/21 2 Sam. 22:26–34 Psalm 51:1–12 1 Cor. 10:6–13 Luke 16:1–13 DS 1 781 We Give Thee But Thine Own 730 What Is the World to Me 619 Thy Body Given For Me O Savior 728 How Firm a Foundation Choir: Voluntary - LSB 851 Lord of Glory
St. James the Elder
7/25/21
Acts 11:27—12:5 Psalm 56 Rom. 8:28–39 Mark 10:35–45
DS 1
661 The Son of God Goes Forth to War 420 Christ the Life of all the Living 585 Lord Jesus Christ, With Us Abide 586 Preach You the Word
Choir Hymn 655 Gospel Procession
Trinity 7 7/18/21
Gen. 2:7–17 Psalm 33:1–11 Rom. 6:19–23 Mark 8:1–9
DS 1
617 O Lord, We Praise Thee 819 Sing Praise to God, the Highest Good 625 Lord Jesus Christ Life Giving Bread 790 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty
Choir Hymn 625 (Distribution)
Trinity 6 7/11/21
Ex. 20:1–17 Psalm 19 Rom. 6:1–11 Matt. 5:17–26
DS 1
594 God's Own Child, I Gladly Say it 562 All Mankind Fell in Adam's Fall 686 Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing 685 Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus
Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006
Trinity 5 7/4/21 1 Kings 19:11–21 Psalm 16 1 Peter 3:8–15 Luke 5:1–11 DS 1 831 How Shall They Hear Who Have Not Heard 688 Come Follow Me the Savior Spake 537 Beautiful Savior 966 Before You, Lord, We Bow Choir Hymn 827 (Voluntary)
Trinity 3 6/20/21
Micah 7:18–20 Psalm 103:1–13 1 Peter 5:6–11 Luke 15:1–10
DS 1
716 I Walk in Danger All the Way 608 Lord to You I make Confession 618 I Come O Savior to Thy Table 790 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty
Trinity 2 6/13/21
Prov. 9:1–10 Psalm 34:12–22 1 John 3:13–18 Luke 14:15–24
DS 1
644 The Church's One Foundation 510 A Multitude comes 622 Lord Jesus Christ You Have Prepared 824 May God Bestow on Us His Grace
Trinity 1 6/6/21
Gen. 15:1–6 Psalm 33:12–22 1 John 4:16–21 Luke 16:19–31
DS 1
700 Love Divine All Loves Excelling 768 To God the Holy Spirit Let Us Pray 619 Thy Body Given for Me O Savior 708 Lord, Thee I love with all my heart
Trinity Sunday 5/30/21
Is. 6:1–7 Psalm 29 Rom. 11:33–36 John 3:1–17
DS 3
497 Come Holy Ghost God and Lord 604 I bind unto myself Today 498 Come Holy Ghost Creator Blest 507 Holy Holy Holy