11/19/2023 Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost

THE CHRISTIAN WAITS

In his gospel, Matthew has a fivefold emphasis on the world not knowing when the Son of Man will come again (Matthew 24:36, 42, 44, 50; 25:13). The Christian waits for the second coming with eager anticipation and with knowledge that informs our life in the end time.

November 5 (All Saints’ Day): Focused on Future Glory

November 12 (Proper 27): Watchful for the Bridegroom

November 19 (Proper 28): Faithful for the Master

November 26 (Last Sunday of the Church Year): Hopeful for the Coming Judgment.

FAITHFUL FOR THE MASTER

When Christ entrusts us with gifts, he calls us to faithful service in use of those gifts. As Christians wait for Christ to return, they are commanded to faithful use of what their master entrusted to them. The point of Jesus' parable isn't in the type or amount of the gift but the faithfulness of the recipient with what he has been given.

The First Reading shows the unfaithfulness of Israel with all the gifts that had been given. Israel was the Lord's firstborn son. To Israel was given the Law, the temple, and the words of the prophets, but Israel offered only grudging service. Yet always God keeps his mercy in view. When God's people do the same and keep his mercy in view, it motivates his people to transform their lives into sacrificial gifts to their master (Second Reading). True service by transformed children of God is doubly rewarded in eternity (Gospel Acclamation).

God bless your worship.

Pastor David Clark will preach on Romans 12:1–8; “Live In View of God’s Mercy“

View or download this week's service folder

Watch service online.