Sunday July 26, 2020
Eighth Sunday after Pentecost
Treasures are hard to find and even harder to hold on to. Jesus describes the kingdom of God as a great treasure hidden in a field, a pearl of great price, and a net full of fish. But this treasure is one of God’s own making. He esteems us His treasured possession and delivers up His own Son that we might be His own and live under Him in His kingdom without end. On earth that treasure is hidden in the dirt, found side by side among cheap trinkets, and in nets that hold good and bad fish. But one day, it will all be clear. They will be set apart and the false treasures exposed. For now, it is enough to believe His Word and trust in His promise and hold steadfast to His Son
READINGS
Old Testament:
Psalm:
Epistle:
Gospel:
Deuteronomy 7:6–9
Because the Lord loves you, He has chosen you to be His treasured possession
Psalm 125
Romans 8:28–39
Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ our Savior
Matthew 13:44–52
The kingdom of God is like a hidden treasure
COLLECT
It is truly good, right, and salutary that we should at all times and in all places give thanks to You, holy Lord, almighty Father, everlasting God, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who, out of love for His fallen creation, humbled Himself by taking on the form of a servant, becoming obedient unto death, even death upon a cross. Risen from the dead, He has freed us from eternal death and given us life everlasting. Therefore with angels and archangels and with all the company of heaven we laud and magnify Your glorious name, evermore praising You