SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (Proper 19)
September 17, 2023
AS WE GATHER
The most essential, important, and difficult aspect of living the Christian life is learning how to live in the forgiveness of sins. There is a direct connection between my receiving God’s forgiveness and my forgiving another person. However, it is not that God’s forgiveness is caused by my forgiving someone else, but rather it is the extent to which I do not forgive or am reluctant or find it difficult to forgive someone else that should make one wonder if you have really appreciated God’s forgiveness for yourself. There are no limits to God’s forgiveness; neither is there to be for us forgiving others. Joseph, and his forgiveness of his brothers, points us to Jesus. In Jesus God took our debts into Himself, paid the price Himself so that forgiveness might be the free gift of His pure grace.
Bible Readings
OLD TESTAMENT READING: Genesis 50:15-21
(No revenge, only forgiveness)
EPISTLE READING: Romans 14:1-12
(Both weak and strong have one Lord.)
HOLY GOSPEL: Matthew 18:21-35
(A life-style of compassion.)