23rd. Sunday after Pentecost - Faith: It's all you need.
Description
This week we remember the Reformation, a time of upheaval, renewal and refreshment for the church. We thank God for the gift of Martin Luther, whose struggles helped birth the Lutheran Church. Today's Gospel reading, John 8:31-36 reminds us that God's grace and forgiveness are gifts, received through faith in Him and His goodness as revealed through Jesus Christ. Our sermon asks, "Do I have to?", as it considers various tasks and requests we may encounter on our life journey with others. Asking "Do I have to?" questions what we might 'get' in return for our compliance with a request or rule. Instead we must consider Jesus, who freely gave everything He had to serve us, right to His own death. This greatest example of God's love seeks to change the conversation from "Do I have to?" to "Yes, I'm glad to!" It's a thankful response to the gift of grace we so freely receive. How might you bring this posture of grace into your life this week?
Today's sermon was read by Kohn Mickin and written for Reformation Day by the Lutheran Church.
United States
