Be Merciful, Even As Your Father is Merciful

One word makes an significant impact. The word AS. Those two little letters point to the mercy the Father shows us and it is unmatched.  The way of the world usually means mercy is only given to those who “deserve” it – like the sick or the poor. But our Heavenly Father graciously gives us mercy when we least deserve it.

So how do we show mercy as the Father does?

Well, we can’t as we are. We need new hearts but the good news is, we have them! In our baptism, we were made anew and in His image.

It is only with His Word and Sacraments that we have show mercy as the Father.

To strengthen our hearts, we need to remain in his Word. Here’s the full Gospel text for today’s sermon, taken from Luke 6,

36[Jesus said:] “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.

37“Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; 38give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”

39He also told them a parable: “Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? 40A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher. 41Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? 42How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother’s eye.”

Click here for this week’s service or scroll past the Announcements to view it.

Announcements

Reopening July 12. We will open our doors again on July 12th. Please come prepared with a face mask or covering and new rules to follow. There will NOT be Bible Study but we will hold the Divine Service at 11 am. You can read the full policy here. Another post covers the highlights.

Donations: Unfortunately the expenses go on. If you wish to make a donation please mail them to the St. James Post office box as that is a secure location.

Prayer requests. Bring your prayer requests to Pastor Jenson, Deacon Poe, or Loyd Harris (bulletin typist). They will printed in the bulletin and prayed in the Sunday service. The deadline is Tuesday for mailing on Wednesday. Remember if you are bringing a prayer request on behalf of another person their permission must be obtained.

Prayer during a pandemic.

Almighty God, heavenly Father, give us grace to trust You during this time of illness and distress. In mercy put an end to the pandemic that afflicts us. Grant relief to those who suffer, and comfort all that mourn. Sustain all medical personnel in their labors, and cause Your people ever to serve You in righteousness and holiness; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen