Readings for the Day:
Exodus 32:7-14: While Moses is on Mount Sinai, the people grow restless and make a golden calf to worship. Today’s reading shows Moses as the mediator between an angry God and a sinful people. Moses reminds God that the Israelites are God’s own people, and boldly asks for mercy for them.
I Timothy 1:12-17: The letters to Timothy and Titus are called the pastoral epistles because they contain advice especially intended for leaders in the church. Here the mercy shown to Paul, who once persecuted the church, is cited as evidence that even the most unworthy may become witnesses to the grace of God.
Luke 15:1-10: Jesus tells two stores that suggest a curious connection between the lost being found and sinners repenting. God takes the initiative to find sinners, each of whom is so precious to God that their recovery brings joy in heaven.
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2024 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— What are the golden calves in our world today? (Exodus 32:7-14)
2—How do you experience God’s mercy in the world today? (Psalm 51:1-10)
3—What does it mean if God’s response to our sin is not judgment, but compassion? (Luke 15:1-10)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: O God, overflowing with mercy and compassion, you lead back to yourself all those who go astray. Preserve your people in your loving care, that we may reject whatever is contrary to you and may follow all things that sustain our life in your Son. Amen.