LAST SUNDAY OF THE CHURCH YEAR (Proper 29)
November 20, 2022
AS WE GATHER
On this last Sunday of the Church Year, our attention is drawn to the Last Day of Christ’s return when, in the resurrection of the body, our deliverance and salvation will be fully completed. The Gospel for today’s celebration, however, points our eyes back to the cross, for there all sacrifice for sin was fulfilled and completed. It was a rather conclusive statement when Jesus said to the repentant thief, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” Likewise, “Having been buried with [Christ] in baptism…you were also raised with him” (Colossians 2:12). Salvation is fulfilled; there is nothing essential that needs to be added in the interim between baptism and paradise. To say it another way, the fulfillment is both past and future for those who are in Christ.
Bible Readings
OLD TESTAMENT: Malachi 3:13-18
(Our names written in the Book of Life)
EPISTLE READING: Colossians 1:13-20
(We have redemption now.)
HOLY GOSPEL: Luke 23:27-43
(“This is the King of the Jews”)