FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
PROPER 8
July 2, 2023
AS WE GATHER
“Peace, peace, there is no peace” cries out a world desperate for its gift. Peace is just a word until the Prince of Peace comes. He alone can offer to us the genuine peace of sins forgiven, consciences cleansed, good will from God, and life triumphant over death. In comparison, the peace the world offers to us is a mere placebo. Today we hear the prophet Jeremiah, who promised the peace that was fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Every prophecy of peace proclaims Christ alone, or it is an empty word that cannot deliver upon its promise. Only in Christ can God’s people know true and genuine peace.
Bible Readings
OLD TESTAMENT READING: Jeremiah 28:5-9
(May the word of the prophet who prophesies peace come to pass.)
EPISTLE READING: Romans 7:1-13
(The commandment is holy, righteous, and good but sin deceives and produces death.)
HOLY GOSPEL: Matthew 10:34-42
(Whoever does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.)