FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (Proper 17)
September 3, 2023
AS WE GATHER
How often have you lost your patience? Some Christians say they either “aren’t” or even “can’t” be patient even though patience is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Patience is a gift of God rooted in His mercy. In His mercy God not only gives us forgiveness of our sins but also transforms our lives. In today’s Epistle St. Paul urges patience in tribulation by reminding us of hope and prayer (Romans 12:12). Rather than giving up in frustration we draw ever closer to God’s mercy in prayer. And we can rejoice in hope even in circumstances beyond our control. These three things belong together: patience, hope, and prayer.
Bible Readings
OLD TESTAMENT READING: Jeremiah 15:15-21
(Hanging on to God’s promises by prayer.)
EPISTLE READING: Romans 12:9-21
(Hope is faith looking forward in the mercies of God.)
HOLY GOSPEL: Matthew 16:21-28
(The cruciform pattern of the disciple’s life)