Brothers and sisters, peace to you in the name of Jesus. I hope you are having a restful weekend. I encourage you to be in worship Sunday. In absolution and assurance of His promises, God uses worship to give rest to our souls.
We continue the Advent season, each day of our lives preparing for Jesus’ promised return. We are turned from our focus from temporal, earthly things, and turn instead to Jesus our Savior from sin and the key to lasting joy beyond comprehension.
On Sunday, December 7th, we follow a modified version of the liturgy of Divine Service Setting Three beginning on page 184 of the LSB hymnal. We will substitute verses of Hymn #338 O Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus. Other hymns chosen for the day are #348 The King Shall Come; #345 Hark! A Thrilling Voice is Sounding; #624 The Infant Son Was Holy Born; and #343 Prepare the Royal Highway.
Scripture readings assigned to the day are Psalm 72:1-7; Isaiah 2:1-5; Romans 15:5-13; and Matthew 3:1-32.
The reading from Isaiah 2 describes the character and work of the coming Messiah. The prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus. He is a descendant of Jesse (the father of King David) and comes into the world with wisdom and righteousness to judge all people. He will destroy the wicked, but the humble He will vindicate and give peace. We should regularly rally around Jesus at the places His Word is read, so we can receive His gifts and one day rest in His glory.
The Epistle lesson is a portion from the closing chapters of St. Paul’s letter to the congregation of Christians in Rome. Paul reminds them (and us) that the Scriptures were written for the Jews, but also for Gentiles. By revealing Jesus to us, the Holy Spirit uses Scriptures to confirm that the promises God gave to the Jews are also intended to give hope (not wishful thinking but anticipation) and endurance to Gentiles.
The gospel lesson is St. Matthew’s recounting of John the Baptists’ calling people to repentance. We are to bear the fruit of those who follow Jesus. Much of John’s message is severe, the threat of punishment indicating the seriousness of sin. Sinners should not hesitate to repent, for God’s kingdom is already ushered in by Jesus.
COLLECT: Stir up our hearts, O Lord, to make ready the way of Your only-begotten Son, that by His coming we may be enabled to serve You with pure minds, 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 if you have any prayer requests or questions about Advent schedules and Sunday’s lessons. God bless you. Pastor Boster
