Sunday September 6, 2020
Fourteenth Sunday of Pentecost
“Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Jesus’ disciples asked. Our Lord responded by welcoming a child into His midst. “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Children are highly valued by our gracious God because they are completely dependent. On their own, they have nothing, yet they need everything. This is true for all of us in our relationship with God! On our own, we have only our sinful, broken lives and are unable to please God and fulfill His commands. Yet, in Jesus Christ, we possess everything we need! Forgiveness of sins and the guarantee of life forever with God are freely given to those who turn from their sin and receive the forgiveness earned by our crucified and risen Savior. In Jesus, we are, like children, completely dependent. We have nothing to offer, yet everything we need is ours to receive from the gracious hands of our Savior.
READINGS
Old Testament:
Psalm:
Epistle:
Gospel:
Ezekiel 33:7–9
The watchman warns the wicked to turn from his way
Psalm 32:1–7
Romans 13:1–10
Love is the fulfilling of the law
Matthew 18:1–20
Jesus calls the children of God to humility and repentance
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. As Your dependent children, we have nothing to offer to make ourselves right with You. Yet, in the cleansing blood of Jesus, we receive Your mercy and forgiveness, full and free.