Our text from Isaiah is one that is read on occasion at a funeral service. It is a beautiful picture of heaven. The Lord GOD dwells with His people. There is a wonderful feast that includes rich food and well-aged wine. The Lord brings comfort and joy through His presence and actions. The joyous picture in Isaiah is contrasted with how the people look at the wedding feast in Matthew 22. They do not want to go. Some rejected the invitation, while others literally killed the servants who were inviting them to the wedding feast. These people were being invited to the heavenly banquet, but they wanted nothing to do with it. May we rejoice in the robe of righteousness and faith given to us in baptism and reject all who entice us to follow the ways of this world.
Readings-
Monday- Deuteronomy 5:1-21; Matthew 8:18-34
Tuesday- Deuteronomy 5:22-6:9; Matthew 9:1-17
Wednesday- Deuteronomy 6:10-25; Matthew 9:18-38
Thursday- Deuteronomy 7:1-19; Matthew 10:1-23
Friday- Deuteronomy 8:1-20; Matthew 10:24-42
Saturday- Deuteronomy 9:1-22; Matthew 11:1-19
Sunday- Isaiah 25:6-9; Philippians 4:4-13; Matthew 22:1-14
Collect for the Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost–
Almighty God, You invite us to trust in You for our salvation. Deal with us not in the severity of Your judgment but by the greatness of Your mercy; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Small Catechism- (If you want, try and memorize this by next Sunday.)
(From the Table of Duties)- Of Citizens- “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” (Matt. 22:21) “It is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of the possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.” (Romans 13:5-7) (5th +)
Weekly Hymn of Emphasis- LSB 514 The Bridegroom Soon Will Call Us
Helpful prayers from the Lutheran Prayer Companion this week-118, 320, 364, 427, 428
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