Called to contemplate the cost of discipleship, we might be helped by translating Paul’s request to Philemon into our prayer of the day: Refresh my heart in Christ. Strengthened by the company and forgiveness of Christ in holy communion and recalling God’s grace in remembrance of baptism, we can be strengthened in this hour to “choose life”—to choose life in God as our own.
Readings and Psalm
- Deuteronomy 30:15-20
Walk in the way of life and hold fast to God - Psalm 1
They are like trees planted by streams of water. (Ps. 1:3) - Philemon 1-21
Paul says: Receive Onesimus as a coworker - Luke 14:25-33
Jesus says: Disciples, give up your possessions and carry the cross
Semicontinuous First Reading and Psalm
- Jeremiah 18:1-11
Like a potter, the Lord will reshape Israel - Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18
You have searched me out and known me. (Ps. 139:1)
First Lutheran Church of the Trinity 