Monday prior to Proper 19

 

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Psalm 31:14-16, Antiphon, Psalm 31:24 – Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!  The Psalmist’ faith and trust in the Lord is unwavering; His defense against his powerful enemies is his reliance on God’s faithfulness and discerning judgment. Praise advances to the encouragement of the saints.

This coming Sunday’s theme, “The Faith of a Christian,” is seen in all three of our readings. In the Old Testament lesson: [Isaiah 50:4-10] The Christian faith endures suffering. In the Epistle lesson: [James 3:1-2] The Christian faith is expressed in impartial service. In the Gospel lesson: [Mark 9:14-29] Christian faith is needed when confronting demon possession.

As we soon begin our program year, starting our adult Bible classes and continuing with our Sunday School classes, the Hymn for the Day expresses the hope and desire that all of God’s children, but especially our youth would remain faithful to Christ. The extent to which faithfulness is expressed can be seen in how well the Christian faith is fed and nourished. Thus, a hunger and thirst for the Means of Grace is paramount.

Collect for Psalm 31: God of kindness and truth, you saved your chosen on, Jesus Christ and you give your martyrs strength. Watch over your people who come to you now and strengthen the hearts of those who hope in you, that they may proclaim your saving acts of kindness in the eternal city; through Jesus Christ our Lord. [1]  -06 September 2021

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[1] Luther’s Seal, copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things

[2] For All the Saints, A Prayer Book For and By the Church, Vol. IV © 1996  The American Lutheran Publicity Bureau, Delhi, NY