getting out the WORD

the seventh sunday of easter

the PRAYER. . .

O God, form the minds of your faithful people into your one will. Make us love what you command and desire what you promise, that, amid all the changes of this world, our hearts may be fixed where true joy is found, your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

the READING. . .

[Jesus prayed:] “I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one ….”

John 17:20-26

the DEVOTION. . .

When you look it up in the book (Book of Concord, that is), it’s all pretty clear. Faith is created when the gospel is proclaimed and the sacraments – baptism, forgiveness & confession, communion – are administered. It’s not a choice. Not a convincing argument. Just like in the beginning, god speaks and we believe! God acts and faith happens!

Thing is, more often than not, we forget. It’s not god all alone! Word and sacrament don’t, simply, drop “as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath.” It comes through the church. Through people called and gathered. Through people sent! And this week, Jesus’ prayer reminds that we are that people! Not, just, objects of grace, but means of grace, as well! Channels! Conduits! God speaks to people through people! Someone, once, spoke to us and, now, we speak to others. Someone bestowed and, now, we do, too.

God proclaimed gospel through people to us. God – through people – baptized us and forgave us and fed us! And now, we become, in our turn, that people for others! Proclaiming and baptizing and forgiving and feeding them! Think about it … Because of us, because of you and me, one more generation comes to faith! Because of us another age believes!

Bob Barndt, pastor

Midland Lutheran Church
Menu