Brothers and sisters, Greetings in the name of Jesus. According to the church calendar used by many congregations, we have entered the season after Pentecost. It is sometimes called the “green season” because the paraments are green. It is sometimes called the non-festival season as compared to the months that include celebrations like Christmas, Epiphany, Easter, Ascension, and Pentecost. The season extends to the last Sunday in November when we will begin a new church with Advent (unless Jesus returns before then). The Gospel lessons in the season after Pentecost tend to focus on Jesus’ ministry expanding and being conducted through His disciples and the Church.
Bible class meets at 9 am. We have just begun going through the Bible study recommended by Synod leaders in preparation for this summer’s National Convention. The theme of the convention is ‘Christ is Risen Indeed’ drawn from St. Paul’s assurance given in 1 Corinthians 15. This truth is a key component of the gospel message. I encourage you to attend the study. I think you will be edified by it.
On Sunday June 7, we will follow the liturgy of Divine Service Setting Three starting on page 184 in the LSB hymnal. Hymns chosen for the day are #553 O Christ, Our Hope; #609 Jesus Sinners Doth Receive; #611 Chief of Sinners; #720 We Walk By Faith, and Not By Sight.
Scripture lessons that will be read are Psalm 119:65-72; Hosea 5:15-6:6; Romans 4:13-25; and Matthew 9:9-13.
To understand the point of Hosea 6, it helps to see it as a conversation alternating between God and the people of Israel. The prophet Hosea lived about the same time as the prophet Amos during the 8th century BC. God spoke through them to criticize the disobedient and idolatrous way the northern kingdom of Israel was living. The verses to be read Sunday begin with God threatening to abandon the people unless they acknowledge their guilt and repent. The people seem to respond having a conversation among themselves, inviting each other to return to God. One questions to be asked, do they mean it or are they simply looking for a quick way to avoid judgment? God questions their motives and tells them He is really wanting them to know Him and His ways, and not merely go through the motions of false piety. God does not like mere action, He is evaluating the attitude of our hearts.
In the lesson from Romans 4, St. Paul writes something similar. Having a right relationship with God is not based on our works, but on having faith in Jesus. Paul reinforces is argument by pointing to the example of Abraham who listened to God’s instruction, and believed God’s promises to him, and moved to a new country. God considered Abraham righteous, not because of his obedience, but because of the faith that led to obedience. It is a subtle point that many people have trouble understanding or applying. We are saved through faith in God’s promises, not because of our works.
In the gospel lesson, St. Matthew reports on how he was called to be a disciple, and how religious leaders criticized Jesus for befriending sinners. Jesus quotes from the prophecy given through Hosea, that God desires attitudes of mercy, not merely going through the motions of piety.
COLLECT: Almighty and most merciful God, You sent Your Son, Jesus Christ, to seek and save the lost. Graciously open our ears and hearts to hear His call and follow Him by faith that we may feast with Him forever in His heavenly kingdom, through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Please let me know when you would like to meet to discuss the new constitution. Let me know of any prayer requests or questions about the Scripture lessons. God bless you. Pastor Boster
