Hello, Reader!
This Sunday, we gather to hear readings that reveal the universal reach and intimacy of God’s presence in the world and that show how Jesus prepares his followers for his departure by promising deep communion with God.
FIRST READING – Acts 17:22–31 Paul addresses the philosophers of Athens and reveals that the unknown God they unknowingly worship is not far from them. He proclaims a God who does not dwell in human-made temples and needs nothing from human hands, for he is the source of all life. God has arranged creation so that humans might search for him and find him, as “in him we live and move and have our being.”
PSALM 66:8–20 A song of testimony from one who has endured trials and suffering. God tests us as silver is refined in fire, yet brings us out into a place of abundance. The psalmist invites others to witness: “Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will tell you what he has done for me.”
EPISTLE – 1 Peter 3:13–22 Peter reminds persecuted believers that suffering for doing good marks them as blessed. Christ suffered for us—the righteous for the unrighteous—to bring us to God. Through baptism, we are saved and connected to Christ’s death and resurrection, grounded in his redemptive work.
GOSPEL – John 14:15–21 As he prepares to depart, Jesus comforts his disciples, promising the Spirit of truth as an Advocate who will be with them forever. “I will not leave you orphaned,” he assures them. Through the Spirit’s gift and Christ’s continued presence, we experience mutual indwelling: “You in me, and I in you.”
To love Christ is to follow his commandments. In doing so, we experience God’s love and the revelation of Christ himself. We are called to be witnesses to all nations of the God who is not far from any of us.
Alleluia! Christ is risen. The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia!
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!
