Pastor Rojas+

Easter 7: Exaudi—"On Persecution"

The Spirit of truth testifies of Jesus, who is the Truth. But the world does not receive the Truth. It loves its own and hates those who are of the Truth. Just as Jesus was scorned, so is His church. "The time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service." (Jn 15:26Ñ16:4) Yet it is by Jesus' suffering and death that we are saved. Therefore we rejoice to share in His sufferings, that we may also share in His resurrection glory. (1 Pet 4:7-14) Through the ministry of the Spirit of truth, we are cleansed from the deceit of our idols and given a new heart and a new spirit, the heart and Spirit of Christ. (Ezek 36:22-28) He is now at work in us to have fervent, self-giving love for one another, love which covers a multitude of sins, "that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen."

Easter 5: Cantate—"On Suffering"

Quasimodo Geniti

Introit: Ps. 81:1, 7a, 10, 16b; antiphon: 1 Peter 2:2a

Old Testament: Ezek. 37:1-14

Psalm 33 (antiphon: v. 6)\rEpistle: 1 John 5:4-10

ProperVerse: Matt. 28:7b, John 20:26a, c

Gospel: John 20:19-31

The Wounds of Christ Give Us Life

"For there are three that testify: the Spirit and the water and the blood" (1 John 5:7). These three point to Christ and flow from Christ. Jesus shows His disciples His hands side, from which blood and water flowed, saying "Peace be with you." He presents the wounds which turn our fear to gladness and which restore us to the Father. Jesus breathes on His disciples and says, "Receive the Holy Spirit" (John 20:23). His breath, His words are Spirit and life. They raise up our dry, dead bones and give us new and everlasting life (Ezek. 37:1-14). Christ now gives His ministers to speak His forgiving, Spirit-filled words to the penitent in His stead. Our Lord continues to come to His people, presenting His wounds to us in the Sacraments of water and blood. He bids us to touch His side at His table, to receive His risen body and blood in true faith, that believing we may have life in His name.

Easter 2020—"My Redeemer"

Good Friday 2020—"Psalm 22"

Maundy Thursday 2020—"Examine Yourself"

Palm Sunday 2020—"This Week"

Midweek Lent 5—"On the Work of the Holy Spirit"

The Lord provided bread from heaven for His people in the wilderness. (Ex 16:2-21) Now He who is Himself the Living Bread from heaven miraculously provides bread for the 5000. (Jn 6:1-15) This takes place near the time of the Passover, after a great multitude followed Jesus across the Sea, when He went up on a mountain. Thus we see that Jesus is our new and greater Moses, who releases us from the bondage of Mt. Sinai and makes us free children of the promise. (Gal 4:21-31) Five loaves become twelves baskets, that is, the five books of Moses find their goal and fulfillment in Christ, whose people continue steadfastly in the doctrine and fellowship of the twelve apostles, and in the breaking and receiving of the Bread of Life, which is the body of Christ together with His precious blood, and in the prayers. (Acts 2:41-47) So it is that God's people "shall neither hunger nor thirst." (Is 49:8-13) For He abundantly provides for them in both body and soul.

Invocabit

Introit: Ps. 91:1-2, 9-10, 13; antiphon: Ps. 91: 15-16

Gradual: Ps. 91:11-12

Old Testament: Gen. 3:1-21

      or 1 Sam. 17:40-51

Psalm 32 (antiphon: v. 7)

      or Psalm 118:1-13 (antiphon: v. 5)

Epistle: 2 Cor. 6:1-10

      or Heb. 4:14-16

Tract: Ps. 91:1, 4a, 15a, 16

Gospel: Matt. 4:1-11

Jesus Does Battle in Our Place\rIn the Garden, man exalts himself to be a god in place of God (Gen. 3:1-21). He succumbs to the temptation of the devil, and eating of the forbidden fruit, he receives death. But in the sin-cursed wilderness, God humbles Himself to become man in place of man (Mt. 4:1-11). He does not eat but fasts and bears the onslaughts of the devil for us that we may be restored to life. Jesus stands as David in our place to do battle against the Goliath, Satan (1 Samuel 17:40-51). Though outwardly Jesus appears weak, yet He comes in the name of the Lord of hosts. He draws from the five smooth stones of the books of Moses and slings the Word of God. The stone sinks into the forehead, and the enemy falls. In Christ we are victorious over the devil. Let us therefore not receive the grace of God in vain (2 Cor. 6:1-10), but seeing that we have a great High Priest, let us come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain help in time of need (Heb 4:14-16).

Introit: Ps. 31:1, 5, 9, 16; antiphon: Ps. 31:2b-3

Gradual: Ps. 77:14-15

Old Testament: 1 Sam. 16:1-13

      or Is. 35:3-7

Psalm 89:18-29 (antiphon: 20)

      or Psalm 146 (antiphon: v. 2)

Epistle: 1 Cor. 13:1-13

Tract: Ps. 100:1-3

Gospel: Luke 18:31-43

Faith Alone

The seeing are blind, while the one who is blind can see (Luke 18:31-43). Jesus tells the twelve that He is going up to Jerusalem to suffer and die and rise again, but they cannot understand or grasp what He is saying. The meaning of His words is hidden from their sight. However, as Jesus makes His way up to Jerusalem, a blind man calls out to Him for mercy. This blind man sees that Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior, for he calls Him "Son of David." Indeed, Jesus is the Lord's anointed, the keeper of sheep (1 Sam. 16:1-13) who goes to lay down His life for the sheep. He is the incarnate love of the Father who suffers long and is kind, who is not puffed up, who never fails us (1 Cor. 13:1-13). Jesus opens the eyes of the blind (Is. 35:3-7) to see Him not according to outward appearances of lowliness, but according to His heart of mercy and compassion. Those who behold Him thus by faith follow Him to the cross through death into life.

Introit: Ps. 44:1-2, 7-8; antiphon: Ps. 44:23, 25a, 26a

Gradual: Ps. 83:18, 13

Old Testament: Is. 55:10-13

Psalm 84 (antiphon: v. 4)

Epistle: 2 Cor. 11:19-12:9

      or Heb. 4:9-13

Tract: Ps. 60:1-2, 5

Gospel: Luke 8:4-15

Scripture Alone

The Sower sows the seed of His Word (Luke 8:4-15). This Word is living and powerful (Heb. 4:9-13) to conceive new life in those who hear it. But the planting of Christ is attacked by the devil, the world, and the flesh. Satan snatches the Word away from hard hearts. The riches and pleasures of this life choke off faith. Shallow and emotional belief withers in time of temptation and trouble. But see how Christ bears this attack for us! Christ's cross was planted in the hard and rocky soil of Golgotha. A crown of thorns was placed upon His head. Satan and His demons hellishly hounded and devoured Him. Yet, through His dying and rising again, He destroyed these enemies of ours. Jesus is Himself the Seed which fell to the ground and died in order that it might sprout forth to new life and produce much grain. In Him, the weak are strong (2 Cor. 11:19-12:9). He is the Word of the Father which does not return void (Is. 55:10-13) but yields a harvest hundredfold.

Introit: Ps. 18:1-2a, 27, 32, 49; antiphon: Ps. 18:5-6a

Gradual: Ps. 9:9-10, 18-19a

Old Testament: Ex. 17:1-7

Psalm 95:1-9 (antiphon: v. 6)

Epistle: 1 Cor. 9:24-10:5

Tract: Ps. 130:1-4

Gospel: Matt. 20:1-16

Grace Alone

The people of Israel contended with the Lord in the wilderness (Ex. 17:1-7). They were dissatisfied with His provision. In the same way, the first laborers in the vineyard complained against the landowner for the wage he provided them (Matt. 20:1-16). They charged him with being unfair, but in reality he was being generous. For the Lord does not wish to deal with us on the basis of what we deserve but on the basis of His abounding grace in Christ. The first-those who rely on their own merits-will be last. "For they were overthrown in the wilderness" (1 Cor. 10:5). But the last, those who rely on Christ, will be first. For Christ is the Rock (1 Cor. 9:24-10:5). He is the One who was struck and from whose side blood and water flowed that we may be cleansed of our sin.

Introit: Ps. 84:1-2a, 4, 10-11; antiphon: Ps. 77:18

Gradual: Ps. 45:2a, 110:1

Old Testament: Ex. 34:29-35

      or Ex. 3:1-14

Psalm 2 (antiphon: v. 7)

Epistle: 2 Peter 1:16-21

ProperVerse: Ps. 96:2-3

Gospel: Matt. 17:1-9

Jesus Is Transfigured and Manifests His Glory

The Lord appeared to Moses in the light of the burning bush (Ex. 3:1-14). Later Moses' face would shine with the light of God's glory when he came down from Mount Sinai (Ex. 34:29-35). At the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah appeared with the One who is the Light of Light Himself (Matt. 17:1-9). Jesus' glory as God shines with brilliant splendor in and through His human nature. By this epiphany, our Lord confirmed the prophetic word (2 Pet. 1:16-21), revealing that He is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. He manifested His majesty as the eternal Son of the Father, and He wonderfully foreshowed our adoption as sons (Collect). We who have been baptized into Christ's body are given a glimpse of the glory that we will share with Him in the resurrection on the Last Day.

Introit: Ps. 97:1, 10-12; antiphon: Ps. 97:6,9

Gradual: Ps. 102:15-16

Old Testament: 2 Kings 5:1-15a

Psalm 110:1-4 (antiphon: v. 2a)

Epistle: Rom. 1:8-17

      or Rom. 12:16-21

ProperVerse: Ps. 97:1

Gospel: Matt. 8:1-13

Jesus Came for Gentiles, Too

The Gospel of Christ is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Gentile (Rom. 1:8-17). Even in the Old Testament, the Gentiles were beneficiaries of God's saving power. Though unimpressed at first with the Word of God, a Syrian commander is persuaded to receive that Word, and in the water he is cleansed and brought to faith in the God of Israel (2 Kings 5:1-15a). Evil is overcome by good (Rom 12:16-21). So also in the New Testament, a Roman centurion demonstrates great and humble faith in the Lord (Matt. 8:1-13). All he needs is the Word of Christ, for he trusts that Jesus' Word of healing has authority to accomplish what it says. And indeed it does. The centurion's faith is praised by our Lord above that of any Israelite. For the last shall be first, and the first last. Apart from faith in Christ, there is no salvation-not even for a Jew-but only weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Introit: Ps. 66:1-5, 20; antiphon: Ps. 66:4, 92:1

Gradual: Ps. 107:20-21

Old Testament: Ex. 33:12-23

      or Amos 9:11-15

Psalm 67 (antiphon: v. 1)

      or Psalm 111 (antiphon: v. 9)

Epistle: Eph. 5:22-33

      or Rom. 12:6-16

ProperVerse: Ps. 148:2

Gospel: John 2:1-11

Jesus' First Miracle Reveals God's Glory

The coming of the Messianic kingdom means the restoration of creation. The sign of this restoration is that "the mountains shall drip sweet wine" (Amos 9:11-15). When the elements of a fallen creation fail and run short at a wedding feast, our Lord Jesus steps in to restore creation and miraculously changes water into an abundance of the very best wine (John 2:1-11). With this sign, Christ manifests His glory. The "back" of God (Ex. 33:12-23) is revealed to those who believe. The hour will come when Jesus will again manifest His glory by taking creation's curse into His own body to release us from its power. The Bridegroom will give His life for the Bride (Eph. 5:22-32), and from His side will flow water and blood, the holy sacraments by which she is cleansed and made one with Him. Through this sacrificial love of Christ we are enabled to "love one another with brotherly affection . . ." and to "outdo one another in showing honor" (Rom. 12:6-16).

Introit: Ps. 89:1, 26-28; antiphon: Liturgical text, Ps. 89:20

Gradual: Ps. 72:18-19

Old Testament: Joshua 3:1-3, 7-8, 13-17

      or Is. 42:1-7

Psalm 85 (antiphon: v. 9)

Epistle: 1 Cor. 1:26-31

ProperVerse: Ps. 143:10

Gospel: Matt. 3:13-17

In His Baptism, Jesus Takes His Place with Sinners

Our Lord Jesus is baptized "to fulfill all righteousness" (Matt. 3:13-17). He partakes of a baptism for sinners in order that He might be our substitute and bear the judgment we deserve. In the water, Jesus trades places with us. Our sin becomes His sin. His righteousness becomes our righteousness. Our glory, therefore, is in "Christ Jesus, who became to us . . . righteousness and sanctification and redemption" (1 Cor. 1:26-31). Jesus is the "chosen" One sent from the Father to release us from the prison house of sin and death (Is. 42:1-7). Baptized into Christ, we also become the chosen ones, beloved of the Father. We cross the Jordan with Jesus (Joshua 3) through death into the promised land of new life with God.

Introit: Ps. 8:1, 4-6; antiphon: Ps. 8:2

Gradual: Ps. 106:47; Is. 63:16b

Old Testament: Gen. 46:1-7

Psalm 77:11-20 (antiphon: v. 13)

Epistle: 1 Peter 4:12-19

ProperVerse: Ps. 145:21

Gospel: Matt. 2:13-23

Jesus Is the Perfect Israel

Israel and all his family went and dwelt in Egypt (Gen. 46:1-7). God made a great nation of him there, but that nation would prove unfaithful to the Lord. Therefore, the New Israel came. In fleeing the murderous Herod, our young Lord goes to Egypt (Matt. 2:13-23), that the prophecy might be fulfilled, "Out of Egypt I called my Son" (Hos. 11:1). Jesus brings to perfection what old Israel could not. He is the faithful Israel, the embodiment of the people of God. He offers His perfect and holy life in place of our own. He submits Himself to persecution and suffering in order to save us. Therefore, we should not think it strange when we who are in Christ experience trials because of the faith (1 Pet. 4:12-19). Rather, we rejoice to share in Christ's sufferings, knowing that we will also share in His glory.

Introit: Ps. 93:1, 3-4; antiphon: Ps. 93:5, 2

Gradual: Ps. 45:2a, 1b

Old Testament: Is. 11:1-5

      or 2 Sam. 7:1-16

Psalm 89:1-8 (antiphon: v. 8)

Epistle: Gal. 4:1-7

ProperVerse: Ps. 93:1

Gospel: Luke 2:(22-32) 33-40

The Seed of David Comes to His Temple

A Rod has come forth from the stem of Jesse (Is. 11:1-5)-the Seed of David whose kingdom shall be established forever (2 Sam. 7:1-16). In the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son Jesus to redeem us from the judgment of the Law (Gal. 4:1-7). Now He is presented in the temple in fulfillment of the Law and revealed to be "a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel" (Luke 2:22-40). Christ has enlightened us in baptism, giving us to be adopted as sons of God and heirs of eternal life. Receiving the Holy Sacrament of His body and blood, we are prepared to depart this world in peace, for our eyes have seen the salvation of God in Him.

Introit: Ps. 24:1, 3-5; antiphon: Ps. 2:6-7

Gradual: Ps. 98:3b, 4a, 2

Old Testament: Is. 7:10-14

Psalm 110:1-4 (antiphon: v. 2a)

Epistle: 1 John 4:7-16

ProperVerse: Ps. 2:7

Gospel: Matt. 1:18-25

The Word of the Lord Is Fulfilled in the Flesh of Jesus

Though Ahaz would not ask, the Lord gives a sign to the house of David, that "the Virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel" (Is. 7:14). With this promise, He signifies that salvation is by His grace alone; it is no work or achievement of man, but the Lord's own work and free gift. The promise is fulfilled as the Son of God is conceived and born of the Virgin Mary, and the sign is received in faith by the house of David in the person of Joseph (Matt. 1:20-24). "Incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the Virgin Mary" (Nicene Creed), God is with us (Immanuel) in the flesh of Jesus, Mary's Son. Joseph believes that Word of God and so demonstrates a marvelous example in his immediate and quiet obedience, taking Mary to be his wife and caring for her in faith and love. He loves her because the love of God is manifest in this, that "the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world," "to be the propitiation for our sins" (1 John 4:9-10).

Introit: Ps. 24:1, 3-5; antiphon: Ps. 2:6-7

Gradual: Ps. 98:3b, 4a, 2

Old Testament: Is. 7:10-14

Psalm 110:1-4 (antiphon: v. 2a)

Epistle: 1 John 4:7-16

ProperVerse: Ps. 2:7

Gospel: Matt. 1:18-25

The Word of the Lord Is Fulfilled in the Flesh of Jesus

Though Ahaz would not ask, the Lord gives a sign to the house of David, that "the Virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel" (Is. 7:14). With this promise, He signifies that salvation is by His grace alone; it is no work or achievement of man, but the Lord's own work and free gift. The promise is fulfilled as the Son of God is conceived and born of the Virgin Mary, and the sign is received in faith by the house of David in the person of Joseph (Matt. 1:20-24). "Incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the Virgin Mary" (Nicene Creed), God is with us (Immanuel) in the flesh of Jesus, Mary's Son. Joseph believes that Word of God and so demonstrates a marvelous example in his immediate and quiet obedience, taking Mary to be his wife and caring for her in faith and love. He loves her because the love of God is manifest in this, that "the Father has sent His Son to be the Savior of the world," "to be the propitiation for our sins" (1 John 4:9-10).

Gaudete

Introit: Ps. 85:1-2, 6, 8; antiphon: Phil. 4:4-5\rGradual: Ps. 80:1-2

Old Testament: Is. 40:1-8 (9-11)

Psalm 85 (antiphon: v. 9)

Epistle: 1 Cor. 4:1-5

ProperVerse: Ps. 80:2b

Gospel: Matt. 11:2-10 (11)

John the Baptizer Prepares the Way for the Lord

The voice of the Baptizer cried out in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the Lord . . ." (Isa. 40:1). John called the people to be made ready for the Messiah's coming through repentance, for "all flesh is grass" (Isa. 40:6). Now He asks from prison, "Are you the one who is to come . . .?" (Matt. 11:2). Jesus' works bear witness that He is. The sick are made well; the dead are raised, and the poor have the Gospel preached to them. Their iniquity is pardoned; they have received from the Lord's hand double forgiveness for all their sins. The "stewards of the mysteries of God" (1 Cor. 4:1) still deliver Christ's overflowing forgiveness to the poor in spirit, comforting God's people with the word of the Gospel which stands forever. This Gospel produces rejoicing among all those who believe.

Populus Zion

Introit: Ps. 80:1, 3, 14, 17; antiphon: Is. 62:11b; 30:30, 29

Gradual: Ps. 50:2-3a , 5

Old Testament: Mal. 4:1-6

Psalm 50:1-15 (antiphon: v. 15)

Epistle: Rom. 15:4-13

ProperVerse: Luke 21:26b-27

Gospel: Luke 21:25-36

The Lord Comes on the Last Day\rThe day on which our Lord returns will be a "great and awesome day" (Mal. 4:5). For He will come in a cloud with great power and glory. To the wicked and the proud, it will be a Day of judgment that will "set them ablaze" (Mal. 4:1). The signs preceding this Day will bring them fear and fainting. But to those who believe, who fear the name of the Lord, this Day is one to look forward to and rejoice in: ". . . straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near" (Luke 21:28). Christ our Redeemer is coming; the Sun of Righteousness will bring healing in His wings. Let us, then, give attention to the words of the Lord, which do not pass away. Let us "through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures" (Rom. 15:4) be strengthened in our hope by the Holy Spirit and watch diligently for Jesus' coming. Then, by God's grace, we shall escape all these things that will come to pass and stand before the Son of Man.

Midweek Advent 1—"Marriage"

Ad Te Levavi

Introit: Ps. 25:4-5, 21-22; antiphon: Ps. 25:1-3a

Gradual: Ps. 25:3-4

Old Testament: Jer. 23:5-8

Psalm 24 (antiphon: v. 7)

Epistle: Rom. 13:(8-10) 11-14

ProperVerse: Ps. 85:7

Gospel: Matt. 21:1-9

The Lord Jesus Comes in Humility to Redeem Us

The new Church Year begins by focusing on the humble coming of our Lord. "Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey" (Matt. 21:5). Even as He was born in a lowly manger, so Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a beast of burden. For He bears the sin of the world. He is the Son of David riding to His enthronement on the cross, where He shows Himself to be "The LORD is our Righteousness" (Jer. 23:5-6). Our Lord still comes in great humility to deliver His righteousness to us in the Word and Sacraments. Before receiving Christ's body and blood, we also sing, "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" (Matt. 21:9) And as we receive the Sacrament, we set our hearts on His return in glory, for "our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed" (Rom. 13:11).

Introit: Ps. 39:4-5, 7-8; antiphon: Isaiah 35:10

Gradual: Ps. 45:14-15

Old Testament: Is. 65:17-25

Psalm 149 (antiphon: v. 2)

Epistle: 1 Thess. 5:1-11 

ProperVerse: Rev. 21:2

Gospel: Matt. 25:1-13

By Faith We Are Prepared for Christ's Return

"The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night" (1 Thess. 5:1_11). The arrival of the bridegroom will be sudden and unexpected. Therefore you are to be watchful and ready like the five wise virgins. "For you know neither the day nor the hour" when the Son of Man is to return. (Matt. 25:1_13). The lamps are the Word of Christ. The oil in the lamps is the Holy Spirit, who works through the Word to create and sustain the flame of faith in Christ. The foolish are those who do not give proper attention to the working of the Holy Spirit in baptism, preaching, and the supper, and so their faith does not endure. The wise, however, are those who diligently attend to these gifts of the Spirit, and who therefore have an abundance of oil. The flame of faith endures to the end. By God's grace they are received into the eternal wedding feast of the Lamb in His kingdom, the new heavens and the new earth created by the Lord for the joy of His people (Is. 65:17_25).

First Reading: Revelation 14:6-7

Psalm 46 (antiphon: v. 7)

Epistle: Romans 3:19-28

 Gospel: John 8:31-36 or

     Matthew 11:12-19\n

The Son of God Has Set Us Free from Sin and Death by His Grace

"Wisdom is justified by her deeds" (Matt. 11:19), and the true Wisdom of God, Christ Jesus the incarnate Son, justifies us by His deeds. He prepares His way by the preaching of repentance, but He has suffered the violence of the Law and voluntarily handed Himself over to violent men, that we might eat and drink with Him in His Kingdom and "remain in the house forever" (John 8:35).  For He is "a friend of tax collectors and sinners" (Matt. 11:19), and He has rescued us by His grace from the slavery of sin and death. By the proclamation of His eternal Gospel "to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people" (Rev. 14:6), "the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law" (Rom. 3:21), "that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus" (Rom. 3:26). And by hearing the Gospel of Christ Jesus, "whom God put forward as a propitiation by His blood, to be received by faith" (Rom. 3:25), "you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31_32).

Introit: Ps. 130:1-2, 7-8; antiphon: Ps. 130:3-4

Gradual: Ps. 133:1, 3b

Old Testament: Micah 6:6-8

Psalm 116:12-19 (antiphon: v. 13)

Epistle: Phil. 1:3-11

ProperVerse: Ps. 147:3

Gospel: Matt. 18:21-35

Walking humbly with our God and forgiving one another

With what shall we come before the Lord (Micah 6:6) who forgives all our sins, and how often shall our fellow Christians sin against us and we forgive them (Matt. 18:21)? Our gracious God on high does not need our "burnt offerings" or "thousands of rams" (Micah 6:6-7), which we could legitimately offer in thanksgiving. He is the Savior who gave His only-begotten Son for our transgression. He offers the fruit of His body, once hanging dead on a cross but now living and giving life in His holy Meal, for the sin of our souls (Micah 6:7). Because He releases us from our enormous debt of sin against Him, we need not imprison our fellow sinners with our lack of love and refusal of forgiveness (Matt. 18:24, 27, 30). As partakers of His grace, we yearn for one another "with the affection of Christ Jesus" (Phil. 1:8). As forgiven sinners, "filled with the fruit of Christ's righteousness," our "love may abound more and more, with knowledge and discernment" (Phil. 1:11, 9), for He leads us "to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with [our] God" (Micah 6:8).

Introit: Ps. 119:1-2, 5-6; antiphon: Ps. 119:137, 124

Gradual: Ps. 33:12, 6

Old Testament: Prov. 25:6-14

Psalm 2 (antiphon: v.11)

Epistle: Eph. 4:1-6

ProperVerse: Ps. 116:1

Gospel: Luke 14:1-11

Whoever Humbles Himself Will Be Exalted

"Do not put yourself forward in the king's presence" (Prov. 25:6_14). Rather, take the lowest position at the table. Humble yourself before Him. For your place is not for you to take but for Him to give. Conduct yourself with all lowliness and gentleness, bearing with one another in love (Eph. 4:1_6), that the King may give you glory in the presence of those at the table with you. "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 14:1_11). Is this not the way of Christ? He is the one who took the lowest place, who humbled Himself even to the point of death for us. He is now exalted to the highest place at the right hand of the Father that penitent believers may be exalted together with Him in the resurrection. To the humble at His Supper He says, "Friend, move up higher," giving you His very body and blood for your forgiveness that you may ascend to take part in the great wedding feast which has no end.

Introit: Ps. 86:1, 7, 12, 13; antiphon: Ps. 86:3, 5

Gradual: Ps. 102:15-16

Old Testament: 1 Kings 17:17-24

Psalm 30 (antiphon: v. 5b)

Epistle: Eph. 3:13-21

ProperVerse: Ps. 115:11

Gospel: Luke 7:11-17

Jesus Calls forth Life from Death

A large funeral procession carrying the only son of a widow is confronted by another large procession, Jesus and His followers. Death and Life meet face to face at the gate of the city (Luke 7:11_17). Filled with compassion, Jesus comes into direct contact with our mortality in order to overcome it. He touches the coffin and speaks His creative words of life, "Young man, I say to you, arise." Jesus does what is neither expected nor requested. For through Christ, God the Father "is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think" (Eph. 3:14_21). Jesus bore our death in His body that we may share in His resurrection. Even as Elijah stretched himself out three times over the Zarephath woman's son (2 Kings 17:17_24), God stretched Himself out over us in the threefold application of His name in the baptismal water, breathing new and everlasting life into us. "To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen."

Introit: Ps. 86:4, 6, 15a, 16; antiphon: Ps. 86:1a, 2b, 3

Gradual: Ps. 118:8-9

Old Testament: 1 Kings 17:8-16

Psalm 146 (antiphon: v. 9a)

Epistle: Gal. 5:25-6:10

ProperVerse: Ps. 95:1

Gospel: Matt. 6:24-34

Anxious Bondage vs. Confident Trust

"You cannot serve God and money" (Matt. 6:24_34), for they require two contrary forms of service. Worry is the worship given to the false god of mammon, an unbelieving anxiousness and focus on the things of this world. Faith is the worship of the true God, a confident trust that He is a loving Father who will care for all of our needs in both body and soul. The widow of Zarephath served God„ that is, she believed the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah that the bin of flour would not be used up nor would the jar of oil run dry (1 Kings 17:8_16). He who feeds the birds and clothes the flowers will certainly provide for our daily needs. For He has already provided for our eternal needs, clothing us with Christ's righteousness in Baptism and feeding us His body and blood for our forgiveness. With such confidence we are liberated from worry and freed to do good with our material resources, especially to those who are of the household of faith (Gal. 5:25_6:10).

Introit: Ps. 84: 1-2a, 4, 10b, 11b; antiphon: Ps. 84:9-10a\nGradual: Ps. 92:1-2

Old Testament: Prov. 4:10-23

Psalm 119:9-16 (antiphon: v. 12)

Epistle: Gal. 5:16-24

ProperVerse: Ps. 65:1

Gospel: Luke 17:11-19

The Cry of Faith: Lord, Have Mercy

The ten lepers cried out from a distance, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" (Luke 17:11_19). Their condition cut them off from God and others. So also do the works of the flesh cut us off from God and others. "Those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God" (Gal. 5:16_24). Thus we cry out with the lepers, "Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy; Lord, have mercy," eagerly seeking His good gifts. Jesus said to the lepers, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed. So too, we walk by faith and not by sight, being confident of Jesus' help before we see any evidence of it, trusting that Jesus' cleansing words of forgiveness will restore us to wholeness in the resurrection. Let us be as the one leper who returned to the true High Priest to give Him thanks and glory. For Jesus bore our infirmities in His sacrifice at Calvary. His words are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh (Prov. 4:10_23).

Introit: Ps. 74:1-2, 19b, 21b; antiphon: Ps. 74:20a, 21a, 22a, 23a

Gradual: Ps. 77:14-15

Old Testament: 2 Chron. 28:8-15

Psalm 32 (antiphon: v. 2)

Epistle: Gal. 3:15-22

ProperVerse: Ps. 88:1

Gospel: Luke 10:23-37

Jesus Is Our Good Samaritan

The Law cannot help us or give us life. Rather, it confines everyone under sin as wounded and naked before God (Gal. 3:15_22). So it is that two figures of the Law, the priest and the Levite, passed by the injured man on the side of the road (Luke 10:23_37). Only the promised Seed of Abraham can rescue us and make us righteous before God. Only the Samaritan, our Lord Jesus, had compassion, as did the Samaritans of old (2 Chronicles 28:8_15). He came down to us in our lost and dying condition, pouring on the oil and wine of the Sacraments. He placed us on His own animal, bearing our sin and brokenness in His body on the cross to restore us. Jesus brought us to the inn, that is, the Church, and gave the innkeeper two denarii, that His double forgiveness might continue to be ministered to us. In this way the Lord, by whose Law we are torn and stricken, heals us and revives us by His Gospel and raises us up with Himself.

Introit: Ps. 68:1, 3, 7a, 10b, 19; antiphon: Ps. 68:5b, 6a, 35b

Gradual: Ps. 28:7b, 1a, 2a

Old Testament: Gen. 4:1-15

Psalm 50:7-23 (antiphon: v. 14)

Epistle: Eph. 2:1-10

      or 1 Cor. 15:1-10

ProperVerse: Ps. 90:1

Gospel: Luke 18:9-14

The Lord Lifts Up the Lowly

"And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard" (Gen. 4:1_15). For unlike Abel, Cain's offering did not proceed from a heart that revered and trusted in the Lord. Thus, the lowly tax collector who prayed, "God, be merciful to me, a sinner!" was the one who went down to his house justified before God, not the respectable, outwardly righteous Pharisee who trusted in himself and his own good living (Luke 18:9_14). "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast" (Eph. 2:1_10). The one who penitently despairs of his own righteousness and relies completely on the atoning mercy of God in Christ is the one who is declared righteous. For Christ died for our sins and rose again the third day (1 Cor. 15:1_10). Therefore, "everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."

Introit: Ps. 55:1, 4-5, 16; antiphon: Ps. 55:16a, 17b, 18a, 22a

Gradual: Ps. 17:8, 2

Old Testament: Jer. 8:4-12

      or Jer. 7:1-11

Psalm 92 (antiphon: v. 4)

Epistle: Rom. 9:30-10:4

      or 1 Cor. 12:1-11

ProperVerse: Ps. 88:1

Gospel: Luke 19:41-48

Jesus Weeps for Jerusalem

Our Lord wept over Jerusalem for the destruction that would soon come upon her. For she did not recognize the time of God's visitation in Christ, who had come to bring her peace (Luke 19:41_48). Through His prophets God had consistently called His people to turn from their deceit and false worship. "But My people do not know the judgments of the Lord" (Jer. 8:4_12). They sought to establish their own righteousness rather than receive Christ's righteousness through faith (Rom. 9:30_10:4). So it was that God was in His temple to cleanse it, a precursor to the once-for-all cleansing from sin which He would accomplish in the temple of His own body on the cross. God grant us to know the things that make for our peace„His visitation in the Word and Sacraments„that by the Holy Spirit we may penitently confess "Jesus is Lord" (1 Cor. 12:1_11).

Introit: Ps. 54:1-3, 7; antiphon: Ps. 54:4-5

Gradual: Ps. 8:1

Old Testament: 2 Sam. 22:26-34

Psalm 51:1-12 (antiphon: v. 18)

Epistle: 1 Cor. 10:6-13

ProperVerse: Ps. 112:1

Gospel: Luke 16:1-9 (10-13)

The Steward's Shrewdness Sanctified

"The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness" (Luke 16:1_9). The steward's shrewdness is praiseworthy for two reasons. First, he knew the master would be merciful. He trusted that the master would honor the debts he forgave in the master's name. In the same way, though we have squandered our heavenly Father's possessions in selfishness and sin, Jesus is the Steward who has canceled our debt, knowing that His forgiveness will be honored by the Father because of the holy cross. Secondly, the steward was shrewd in using oil and wheat to provide for his earthly welfare. So also do these earthly elements aid us when pressed into heavenly use in the anointing of baptism and the wheat of the Lord's Supper. Those who have the Sacraments will have an eternal home when their earthly home fails. These provide us aid in times of temptation (1 Cor. 10:6_13). For the Lord is our strength and a shield to all who trust in Him (2 Sam. 22:26_34).

Introit: Ps. 48:1, 3, 11, 14; antiphon: Ps. 48:9-10

Gradual: Ps. 31:2b,1a

Old Testament: Jer. 23:16-29

Psalm 26 (antiphon: v. 12)

NT or Ep: Acts 20:27-38

      or Rom. 8:12-17

ProperVerse: Ps. 78:1

Gospel: Matt. 7:15-23

Beware of False Prophets

"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves" (Matt. 7:15). Deceit has its strength in masquerading as the truth. False prophets speak a vision of their own heart, not from the mouth of the Lord (Jer. 23:16_29). They deny the judgment of the Lord, speaking peace to the unrepentant, when in truth there is condemnation and wrath. "You will recognize them by their fruits" (Matt. 7:20). The "fruits" of a true prophet are not outward righteousness or success but faithfulness in proclaiming the Word of the Lord. This is the will of the Father in heaven, that pastors take heed to the flock, the Father's adopted ones (Rom. 8:12_17), warning them against the wolves and their lies, and shepherding the Church of God which He purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:27_38). For indeed, the cross is that good tree bearing good fruit„namely, the body and blood of Christ, given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.

Introit: Ps. 47:3, 6-8; antiphon: Ps. 47:1-2

Gradual: Ps. 34:11, 5

Old Testament: Gen. 2:7-17

Psalm 33:1-11 (antiphon: v. 6)

Epistle: Rom. 6:19-23

ProperVerse: Ps. 47:1

Gospel: Mark 8:1-9

Jesus Restores Paradise and Feeds Us Freely

In the Garden of Eden, our first parents received food freely from the gracious hand of God, apart from any burdensome work (Gen 2:7_17). But after the fall, food would be received only through toil and labor. The curse declared, "By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground . . ." (Gen. 3:19). In other words, "The wages of sin is death" (Rom. 6:23). But into this wilderness world came Jesus the Messiah to restore creation. Having compassion on the weary multitudes, He renewed the bounty of Eden on the third day, freely granting an abundance of bread to the 4,000 (Mark 8:1_9). So also our Lord Jesus, having endured the burden of our sin, was raised on the third day to bring us back to Paradise. He now miraculously turns the bread of death into the Bread of Life in the Sacrament, giving you His very body and blood for your forgiveness. For "the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Rom. 6:23).

Introit: Ps. 28:1-2, 7; antiphon: Ps. 28:8-9

Gradual: Ps. 90:13, 1, 2b

Old Testament: Ex. 20:1-17

Psalm 19 (antiphon: v. 8)

Epistle: Rom. 6:(1-2) 3-11

ProperVerse: Ps. 31:1

Gospel: Matt. 5:(17-19) 20-26

Our Only Hope Is in Christ's Righteousness 

"Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matt 5:20). God demands nothing less than perfection and holiness from you in regard to His commandments (Ex. 20:1_17). Your only hope, then, is not in your own goodness but in the goodness of Christ, who did not come to destroy the Law and the Prophets, but to fulfill them for you. In Christ, your righteousness does indeed exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees. For you have been baptized into Christ's death and your sinful nature crucified. Therefore, he who has died has been freed from sin (Rom. 6:1_11). You are now raised with Christ to walk in newness of life and to share in His resurrection on the Last Day. Christ has brought you through the baptismal sea "out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery" (Ex. 20:2). Therefore, "consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus" (Rom. 6:11).

Introit: Ps. 27:1a, 11-12, 14; Ps. 27:7, 9

Gradual: Ps. 84:9, 8

Old Testament: 1 Kings 19:11-21

Psalm 16 (antiphon, v. 11)

Epistle: 1 Cor. 1:18-25

      or 1 Peter 3:8-15

ProperVerse: Ps. 21:1

Gospel: Luke 5:1-11

Jesus Makes Fishers of Men

The Lord called fishermen to be fishers of men (Luke 5:1_11). The net they would use is the message of the cross, which is foolishness and a stumbling block to the world (1 Cor. 1:18_25). The power of God to save is not in spectacular signs like wind and fire and earthquakes (1 Kings 19:11_21), nor is it to be found in human intelligence and wisdom. The power of God to save comes in the still, small voice of the preaching of Christ crucified. In worldly darkness the disciples could catch nothing. But in the light of Christ, whose Word was attached to the water, the boats were filled with fish. So it is that in Baptism you have been drawn in to the ship of the Church. Though the nets are breaking and some who hear the Word do not believe, pastors continue to cast the net of the Gospel and the Sacraments, that Christians may abide in the boat of the Church and that we may be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks a reason for the hope that is in us (1 Peter 3:8_15).

Introit: Ps. 25:1-2a, 5b, 15, 20; antiphon: Ps. 25:16, 18\nGradual: Ps. 55:22a, 16, 18a

Old Testament: Micah 7:18-20

Psalm 103:1-13 (antiphon: v. 8)

Epistle: 1 Tim. 1:12-17

      or 1 Peter 5:6-11\nProperVerse: Ps. 18:1-2a

Gospel: Luke 15:1-10

      or Luke 15:11-32\n

Jesus Receives Sinners

"This man receives sinners and eats with them" (Luke 15:2). The Pharisees' statement of judgment against Jesus is in fact a proclamation of Gospel truth. For our God is one who delights in mercy, who casts all our sins into the depths of the sea through the cross (Micah 7:18_20). "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" (1 Tim. 1:15). Those who refuse to be counted as sinners also refuse Jesus who came only for sinners. Those like the older son (Luke 15:11_32), who think they are righteous of themselves, will not join in the heavenly celebration over the sinner who repents and so remain outside of the Father's house. Let us therefore be on guard against self_righteously trusting in our own merits. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you" (1 Peter 5:6). Rejoice that Jesus receives sinners like us and that He still sits at table with us in the Holy Supper, bestowing His forgiveness and life.

Introit: Ps. 18:1-2a, 27, 30a, 49; antiphon: Ps. 18:18-19\nGradual: Ps. 120:1-2

Old Testament: Prov. 9:1-10 

Psalm 34:12-22 (antiphon: v. 11)

Epistle: Eph. 2:13-22

       or 1 John 3:13-18

ProperVerse: Ps. 7:17

Gospel: Luke 14:15-24

The Gospel Call Goes Out to All\nWisdom has issued an invitation to the divine feast: "Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight" (Prov. 9:5_6). This is the call of the Spirit of Christ to believe the Gospel and to receive His saving gifts in the Holy Supper. Many make excuses and reject this invitation, even as the Jews did in the days of Jesus, yet the Master's house will be filled. The Gospel call therefore goes out to the lowly and despised, into the highways, even to all the Gentiles (Luke 14:15_24). For "you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ" (Eph. 2:13_22). In Christ, believing Jews and Gentiles are no longer strangers but fellow members of the household of God. The enmity of class and race is put to death through the cross. Having been reconciled in the one Body of Christ, we are enabled to love one another (1 John 3:13_18) as we await the marriage feast of the Lamb in His kingdom which will have no end.

Introit: Ps. 13:1-4; antiphon: Ps. 13:5-6

Gradual: Ps. 41:4, 1

Old Testament: Gen. 15:1-6

Psalm 33:12-22 (antiphon: v. 20)

Epistle: 1 John 4:16-21

ProperVerse: Ps. 7:1

Gospel: Luke 16:19-31

Faith Trusts in Christ for Life Eternal

When the beggar Lazarus died, he was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. For he was truly Abraham's seed. Like Abraham, he believed in the Lord, and the Lord "counted it to him as righteousness" (Gen. 15:6). The name Lazarus means "God is my help." The unnamed rich man, on the other hand, did not love and trust in God. For he evidently cared little for the beggar at his gate. And "he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen" (1 John 4:20). He who loved and trusted in possessions and prestige died and was in torments in Hades (Luke 16:19_31). Repentance and faith are worked only through Moses and the prophets„that is, the Word of God, for it points us to Christ. Only through His death and resurrection are we brought the comfort of life everlasting.