Hello, Reader!
We invite you to join us today as we come together in prayer, praise, and fellowship.
A look at today's readings
Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost 2025
Proper 28, Year C (Track 2).
Old Testament – Malachi 4:1-2a: The prophet Malachi delivers a powerful message about the coming “day of the Lord”—a time of divine judgment when the arrogant and evildoers will be consumed like stubble by fire. Yet, this sobering warning is immediately followed by a promise of hope: for those who revere God’s name, the “sun of righteousness” will rise with healing in its wings, and they will leap for joy like calves released from the stall. This passage reminds us that God’s judgment and God’s healing are two sides of the same coin—justice for the oppressed and restoration for the faithful.
Psalm 98: This joyful psalm calls all creation to sing a new song to the Lord in celebration of His victory and righteousness. The psalmist envisions a cosmic chorus where not only people but the sea, rivers, and hills join in praise before God, who comes to judge the earth. The psalm emphasizes that God’s justice is not something to fear but to celebrate, for He judges with righteousness and equity. It beautifully connects with Malachi’s promise, transforming the theme of judgment into an occasion for universal rejoicing.
Epistle – 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13: Paul addresses a practical issue in the Thessalonian church: some believers were living in idleness, perhaps because they were expecting Christ’s imminent return. He reminds them of his own example of working hard to support himself during his ministry, despite having the right to receive support. Paul’s command is clear: “Anyone unwilling to work should not eat.” Still, he offers encouragement: “Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right.” This passage roots our faith in the everyday reality of honest work, personal responsibility, and perseverance in goodness.
Gospel – Luke 21:5-19: When people admire the temple’s beauty, Jesus surprises them by predicting its destruction. His disciples ask when this will happen, and Jesus advises them not to be misled by false messiahs or frightened by wars and disasters. He then prepares them for persecution—they will be arrested, betrayed even by family, and hated because of his name. Yet within this sobering forecast, Jesus offers deep reassurance: God will give them the words to speak when they testify, and “not a hair of your head will perish.” He promises that through endurance, they will save their souls. This passage urges us to faithful perseverance, trusting that God sustains us even through the most challenging times.
The central theme emphasizes faithful endurance during tough times, trusting in God’s final justice and healing, and living out our faith through practical righteousness and persistent good deeds.
Read the full reflection and Scripture texts on our services webpage.
The podcast will be available later today on your preferred podcast platform.
Did you know we have a webpage for each Sunday service? We aim to stay a week ahead, so you can view the readings and more from the week prior if you'd like. Or go back and see what we did!
If you feel moved to pray for others, we encourage you to add those from our prayer list to your prayers to strengthen our community.
If you need ideas for prayer, consider using prayers from the Book of Common Prayer to support you on your prayer journey.
Don’t forget to check out this week's announcements.
Blessings, and have a great week!
