THURSDAY (July 30, 2020)
In the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel Sentence
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. “ (Romans 8:28)
Reading
““The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” (Matthew 13:44–46)
Meditation
The kingdom of heaven is a reality for us, right here, right now. For the kingdom of heaven is Christ, and where Christ is, so is His kingdom. Heaven is often thought of as some ethereal place out of our reach—or at least something that has nothing to do with us now. But Jesus is saying, “You have the kingdom. It is right here in front of you. Rejoice.” For us, baptism is the gateway into this eternal kingdom. Yes, we live in the tension of the now and the not yet. We have Christ and all his gifts, yet live in the reality of this sinful world. But come, receive the treasures of Christ. Hear His Word proclaimed by our pastor. Receive forgiveness of sins and the medicine of immortality in the Body and Blood of Christ given for you.
Silence
Prayer for Holy Cross Member
Show your grace to Andrew this day, as he goes about the callings you have given to him. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Prayer of the Week (from Sunday)
Almighty and everlasting God, give us an increase of faith, hope, and love, that, receiving what You have promised, we may love what You have commanded; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Lord’s Prayer