For this Reformation season, Pastor Russ offers 6 vignettes on the life of Martin and Katie Luther. Martin as Believer, Reformer, Musician, and Husband & Father; Katherine Von Bora as Wife & Mother, and Homemaker & Businesswoman. Learning more about these two remarkable people helps us to appreciate the beginning of our Lutheran history and heritage.
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Whose side are you on? Sometimes it seems like we’re constantly having to declare what we are for and what we are against. Intern Monica reminds us that when others confront us with fear and division, it’s ok to just let them have it! Today’s readings are Isaiah 45:1-7 and Matthew 22:15-22.
Photo by Monica Holman
You may want to relax with Psalm 23 or Philippians 4 rather than hear the violent and challenging images Jesus relays in the parable of the Marriage Feast that almost wasn't in Matthew 22:1-14. What is the meaning of this rather strange story? And what does it have to do with the issues of today? Be brave and listen....
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Many of us face discouraging moments in our life at some time. St. Paul was in prison when he wrote his most personal letter to the church at Philippi. Paul's faith in overcoming discouragement is found in chapter 3:4b-14 and can be a prescription when facing our own life's challenges. Today’s reading is Matthew 21:33-46.
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Two vital characteristics of those who follow Jesus are integrity and humility. In the Matthew reading, Jesus' authority was challenged by the religious leaders. Jesus teaches them a lesson in integrity. St. Paul shares in the Philippians 2 reading that Jesus, by becoming one of us and one with us all the way to the cross, led the way of humility and love. For those of us who have any authority at home or in the community, humility and integrity are vital. Today’s reading is Philippians 2:1-13 and Matthew 21:23-32.
Photo credit: Evgeni Tcherkasski @ evgenit on Unsplash.com