Greetings on the seventh Sunday after Pentecost – staring down August and the hope being found in the approach of autumn.
Our invitation to worship is a prayer reminding us that God is the source of all things trustworthy and holy which brings mercy to our lives. Our first lesson from Hosea can be disturbing because it relates God’s judgement in stark terms but also remembers that God’s mercy exceeds human sin. The Psalmist’s refrain highlights God’s grace and restoration for humanity, if they are willing to receive grace and restoration. The New Testament reading Colossians sets the stage for the reminder that our faith is not found in philosophy, special practices, or special knowledge, rather faith comes from the truth of loving God and neighbor. Our Gospel from Luke recounts the Lord’s prayer as the form by which we pray and gives parables for us to remember why we pray.
The scripture describes the reality of believers in olden times and invites us to see our present reality through the eyes of scripture. We hear Jesus remind his followers that they need to pray for the basics of life in a way that is intimate and expectant. Jesus reminds his followers that prayer builds trust in those who pray and the ability to sense God’s presence when they are under pressure. Our mission includes helping others find God’s presence carrying them through the tough times of their lives.
How are we reminded that God cares for us and wants to hear from us? How are we able to be people who can help others have faith in their trying times? It is in following our prayer lives that we can be of help always. I invite your likes and comments,
Les+
Readings: Hosea 1:2-10; Psalm 85; Colossians 2:6-19; Luke 11:1-13
Sermon link: https://audiomack.com/fatherles-2/song/pentecost-7-sermon-1
