THIRD SUNDAY AFTER THE EPIPHANY
January 23, 2022
AS WE GATHER
Today we welcome to our church an honored proclaimer of the Word. Despite the rejection He often has faced over the years—even from the people who knew Him best—let us welcome Him today with open ears and open hearts. This preacher is like none other. The way He communicates the Word of God makes you feel that He knows the Bible inside and out—and that’s because He does! This proclaimer is none other than your Savior Jesus Christ. Much like He did in today’s Gospel, Jesus stands among God’s people to deliver the Good News of life and salvation. Unlike the neighbors in Nazareth, who ended up rejecting their hometown preacher, let us receive Him with glad and sincere hearts. In humble faith, we fix our eyes on Jesus and receive all He comes to give.
Bible Readings
OLD TESTAMENT READING: Nehemiah 8:1–3, 5–6, 8–10
(The people gather as one to hear God’s Word.)
EPISTLE READING: 1 Corinthians 12:12–31a (In Christ, we are one Body with many members.)
HOLY GOSPEL: Luke 4:16–30
(Jesus reads and fulfills God’s Word in His hometown synagogue.)