FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
(Proper 19)
September 11, 2022
AS WE GATHER
“The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15). Because all people are sinners, His salvation is for all regardless of any differences or circumstances in life. This proclamation is still Christ’s main mission through His Church—our mission as His Church. The Pharisees limited the invitation to only “certain types” of people. In doing so they not only betrayed the grace and love of God but they also missed His joy. In today’s worship the emphasis is on the joy of God’s mission. “There is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:10). Jesus endured the cross, despising the shame “for the joy that was set before him” (Hebrews 12:2b). We pray today that we may follow Christ and join in His mission, “rejoicing in the way that leads to eternal life” (Collect).
Bible Readings:
OLD TESTAMENT READING: Ezekiel 34:11-24
(The Lord searches and seeks the lost.)
EPISTLE READING: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
(The mercy of God’s perfect patience)
HOLY GOSPEL: Luke 15:1-10
(The joy of restoring the lost)