Hello everyone. Have you ever been frustrated at a
situation that simply wasn't fair? If so, you will probably
relate to the two scripture lessons that is our focus this
Sunday. Matthew narrates one of Jesus’
controversial parables in which Jesus says that the
reign of God is like that of a landowner who pays
his workers the same wage no matter what time of
day they began to work. When God changes God’s
mind about punishing Nineveh for their evil ways,
Jonah is angry. Yet God is gracious and merciful,
abounding in steadfast love. In baptism we receive
the grace of God that is freely given to all. As
Martin Luther wrote, in the presence of God’s
mercy we are all beggars. Blessings to all!
Greetings to everyone in the name of Jesus! In Isaiah the
people are advised to look to their spiritual ancestors as the rock
from which they were hewn. Jesus declares that the church will
be built on the rock of Peter’s bold confession of faith. God’s
word of reconciliation and God’s mercy are keys to the church’s
mission. Paul urges us to not be conformed to this world but to
offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, using our individual gifts to
build up the body of Christ. From the table we go forth to offer
our spiritual worship through word and deed. This Sunday we
focus on Peter's confession of faith that Jesus is the Son of God.
May God bless you all with this gift of faith.