Living the Lectionary 16th Sunday After Pentecost

Season: Pentecost Week of October 2nd

About the Season: The season of Pentecost is a season of being given the gifts of God for the purpose of living out His mission on earth as His Body. Its color, green, implies the growth of the Church both personally and as a Body through the work of the Holy Spirit. About this Sunday: Following Gods mission isnt an easy thing to do. Jesus warns us time and time

Will You Go?: It isnt easy

again that His people will be met with resistance and persecution because He was met with resistance and persecution. This Sunday we look into some of the Bible verses that describe how our suffering and Jesus suffering fit together. Reflecting on the Readings: Isaiah 5:1-7 Injustice isnt easy Isaiah describes how God Himself bemoans the injustice that his people inflict on one another. Where and when have you expected justice but found bloodshed? Psalm 80 Restoration isnt easy The Psalmist Asaph cries out to God for the restoration of His people, echoing the words of Isaiah from the OT reading. What do you feel is difficult about being restored to God and your neighbor? Philippians 3:4-14 Righteousness isnt easy - The church at Philippi hears that even Paul has not even attained full righteousness but continues to strive. Do you feel that you have obtained all the righteousness you should have? Matthew 21:33-46 Following God isnt easy Jesus tells a parable about how Gods people have routinely been killed and persecuted for following His will and working in His vineyard. Are you put off when God calls you to something difficult? Law and Gospel: Law: Righteousness, the perfect actions and thoughts we are called to by God, is so difficult for us that it is impossible. To add to this, the sinful world will attack us when we do live out that righteousness. We need a Savior who will take the attacks and live the life we couldnt.

Gospel: Jesus is the perfect Son of the Father who was put to death for our sake. He is our chief cornerstone, the one thing in our lives that makes everything else even trouble and persecution - fit. Living the Lectionary Ideas: Learn: Many countries allow the persecution of Christians. Do some research and learn about a few countries where Christians are persecuted. Do: Do something that is difficult for you this week perhaps it is even something you have been putting off. Rise to the occasion of being called into difficult situations. Live: Adopt the attitude of perseverance in the presence of difficulties. Remember how Christ did the most difficult thing for you on the cross and tackle your difficulties.