The world writes off the 'lost cause,' but Jesus leaves the 99 to find the one. Grace isn’t about being found; it’s about being sought. ✝️
The Gospel Reading: The service begins with the proclamation of Luke 15, highlighting Jesus’ controversial practice of welcoming and eating with tax collectors and sinners.
A Pastoral Connection: Pastor Steve reflects on the significance of the date, September 11th, and offers prayers for those serving abroad, grounding the eternal Word in our current historical context.
The Scandal of the 99: An exploration of the “peculiar glory” of Jesus, who leaves the safe majority to pursue the one lost soul—a business move no human shepherd would logically make.
Paul’s Transformation: A look at 1 Timothy, where Paul identifies as the “foremost” of sinners, serving as a living monument to God’s unmerited favor.
Moses as Intercessor: A reflection on Exodus 32, where Moses “banters” with God, pleading for mercy for a “stiff-necked” people based on God’s own promises.
The Final Assurance: A concluding reminder that we are all “equally undeserving,” yet God showers His grace upon us through Christ.
Romans 5:8: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Scripture)
Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of god, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” (Scripture)
The Small Catechism, The Second Article: “I believe that Jesus Christ… has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person… not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood.” (Lutheran Confessions)