ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST—
PROPER 16
August 21, 2022
AS WE GATHER
Jesus is full of surprises. He says and does things differently than we might expect from God. Many will seek to enter the narrow door of the kingdom but will not be able. God’s discipline of His children is an expression of His deep love for us. Some who are last will become first, and some who are first will find themselves last. How strange. The way of Jesus is the way of the cross, of suffering, discipline, and of being last. Divine strength is made perfect in human weakness. Grace unexpected is delivered in Word and Sacrament and through Jesus’ own presence with us in our sufferings. Thank You, God, for grace unexpected and overflowing.
Bible Readings
FIRST READING: Isaiah 66:18–23 (The sign set among the nations.)
EPISTLE READING: Hebrews 12:4–24
(God disciplines those He loves by His Word that we may enter and dwell in the eternal joys of Mount Zion.)
HOLY GOSPEL: Luke 13:22–30 (Strive to enter the narrow door.)