. . . and our neighbors . . .

Early Sunday Morning

Edward Hopper, 1930

It should come as no surprise to you that at the rate we are going, there is no way that we are going to "get through" Luther's Small Catechism in the two weeks remaining in our current study. The time allotted has been sufficient for a mere introduction. But to both be comprehensive and thorough requires more than four consecutive 50-minute sessions. This is not a lament. It's just an observation. It is fine to move deeper rather than spread ourselves too thinly.

The good news is that by now everyone should have access to a copy of the Small Catechism, whether you obtained your own or are using the one included in the ELW (Evangelical Lutheran Worship). The important thing is to read it.

In a general way, we will look at the remaining commandments in the top ten list this Sunday. As I suggested at the end of last week's class, these remaining commandments address the horizontal dimension of our faith. While the first several deal primarily with our relationship with and understanding of God, the rest are concerned with our relationship with and understanding of one another.  Again, notice how in his explanations to each of the commandments Luther describes not only what the commandments forbid, but also what is prescribed and encouraged.

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In worship on Sunday (October 19, 2014) we will be observing the Festival of St. Luke. Actually, Saturday, October 18th is the commemoration of St. Luke. But since we are the congregation of St. Luke, we are transferring the celebration and observance to Sunday. The festival of St. Luke is an opportune time for the church to emphasize its calling to engage in healing ministry. Therefore, there will be an opportunity for the laying on of hands and anointing with oil and healing prayer during worship on Sunday. Please share an invitation with friends, neighbors, and family about this ministry. All are welcome and guests are expected.

PRAYER OF THE DAY Almighty God, you inspired your servant Luke  to reveal in his gospel the love and healing power of your Son.  Give your church the same love and power to heal,  and to proclaim your salvation among the nations  to the glory of your name, through Jesus Christ, your Son, our healer,  who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen READINGS Isaiah 43:8-13 Psalm 124 2 Timothy 4:5-11 Luke 1:1-4; 24:44-53