Hello, Reader!
This Sunday, September 6, we celebrate the Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost, with Deacon Nate Irvine presiding. These readings emphasize our call to witness to truth, the power of love and reconciliation, and Christ's presence among us.
FIRST READING – Ezekiel 33:7–11
Ezekiel is appointed as a sentinel for Israel, charged with warning the wicked to repent. If he fails to warn them, their blood will be on his hands. Yet God's message through Ezekiel is one of grace: "I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked. I desire that the wicked turn from their ways and live. Turn back, turn back from your evil ways; for why will you die?"
PSALM 119:33–40
The psalmist regards God's law not as a burden but as a gift. He prays to be taught God's statutes and to have his heart inclined toward the commandments. His longing is profound: "Behold, I long for your commandments; in your righteousness, preserve my life."
EPISTLE – Romans 13:8–14
Paul proclaims that the entire law is fulfilled in one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Love does no harm and encompasses all the commandments. He calls us to wake from sleep, put aside the works of darkness, and "put on the Lord Jesus Christ" as our covering and identity.
GOSPEL – Matthew 18:15–20
Jesus teaches how to address sin within the Church: confront privately, then bring witnesses, and finally involve the whole Church. If the person still refuses to listen, regard them as an outsider. Jesus promises: "Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them."
These readings call us to watch over one another, to speak the truth in love, to love our neighbors as ourselves, and to gather in the assurance that Christ is present whenever we come together in His name.
Read the full readings and reflections
The podcast of today’s service will be available later today on your favorite podcast platform, or you can listen here.
Don’t forget to review this week’s announcements and the church calendar.
This week in your prayers, please include those on our prayer list to help strengthen our community.
If you need inspiration for prayer, consider the Book of Common Prayer or these prayers to guide your prayer journey.
Blessings, and have a great week!
