10/18/2026: Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24)

THE BEGINNING OF THE END

The cartoon character holds a sign saying, “The End Is Near.” For Christians, this is not a message of fear. Instead, it is a message of watchful hope. Scripture teaches that the End Times began with Christ’s first coming, especially his death and resurrection. Christ will come again on judgment day. Now we live in that in-between time, when salvation has been won, but full glory is still to come. It’s the beginning of the end.

Jesus himself makes clear that no one knows the day or hour of his return. This uncertainty is not meant to trouble us, but to keep us spiritually awake. Each day becomes an opportunity to live in repentance and faith, turning from sin and trusting fully in Christ’s finished work for us.

Our preparation for the end is not about trying to predict signs or earn God’s favor. Instead, it is about remaining rooted in Jesus: hearing the Word, receiving the sacraments, and trusting the promises of forgiveness. These are God’s ways of keeping us ready.

“The Beginning of the End” reminds us that history is moving toward our own death and toward Christ’s return. For believers, that end is truly a beginning.

IT’S TIME TO GIVE TO GOD WHAT IS GOD’S

In the 250th anniversary year of the signing of the Declaration of the Independence of the United States of America, Americans are realizing that our freedoms are not guaranteed forever. What can we do with the limited time we have left to preach the gospel and administer the sacraments without governmental interference? We can do exactly what Jesus advised, giving to God what is God’s. We can thank Jesus for fulfilling all righteousness for us, leaving us free to serve our neighbors. God does not need our good works, but our neighbors do. God’s Word informs our choice of political activities as we seek to be faithful to our calling as Christian citizens.

God bless your worship.

Pastor Mueller preaches on Matthew 22:15-22

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