Set Free

Sunday, October 25, 2020

REFORMATION DAY

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by His blood, to be received by faith. Romans 3:23–25a

To the consternation of His opponents, Jesus announced that those who abide in His Word know the truth, which sets them free. And the truth, Paul points out in the Epistle, is that God has declared us justified, not guilty under His Law, because of His gracious gift of faith in Christ. That gift frees us from fearing God’s righteous wrath; we are confident that the Lord of hosts is with us. Sure of His presence and protection, we need not fear the forces of nature, the conflicts of people and nations, and the wiles of the devil. Rather, in all that we think, say, and do, we are free to respond to the angelic invitation we hear today: “fear God and give Him glory . . . and worship Him who made heaven and earth” (Revelation 14:7).

READINGS

First Reading:


Psalm:

Epistle:


Gospel:

Revelation 14:6–7 (An angel announces the time for judgment.)

Psalm 46

Romans 3:19–28 (We need not fear the Law’s accusation, for we are justified by grace.)

John 8:31–36 (We are freed from slavery to sin; we are free indeed.)

PRAYER OF THE DAY

Let us pray. Almighty and gracious Lord,
pour out Your Holy Spirit on Your faithful people. Keep us steadfast in Your grace and truth, protect and deliver us in times of temptation, defend us against all enemies, and grant to Your Church Your saving peace; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.