The Third Sunday After Pentecost C, June 26, 2022

The Third Sunday After Pentecost C, June 26, 2022

Luke 9:51-62

Jesus has his face set upon his exodus in Jerusalem. His determination is flinty-hard, to speak like Isaiah (Isa. 50:17). As he makes his persistent way toward the city, his responses to those who would be, or those he calls to be, his followers, reflect his rejection of all distraction. He is rather obscure in his answer to the first one confessing loyalty as a disciple. He is rather dismissive to the third. The second, though, the one to whom Jesus says, “Follow me,” does not receive obscurity nor dismissiveness. This one receives a commission. The “dead” who will bury their own dead are the “dead in sin” responsible to see to those others “dead in sin” who have gone down to the grave. By this pronouncement, Jesus clarifies the mind of the man and then gives him a commission. He makes him an apostle. You… yes, you… “Go and proclaim the kingdom of God” (vs. 60). The man, first called by Jesus to be a disciple (“Follow me” vs. 59), becomes a preacher of the kingdom of God and its presence in the person of Jesus.

Prayers from one who needs a preacher… a preacher delivering the presence of the kingdom in the person of Jesus Christ.

Father in heaven, mysteries abound for you are a God who hides himself, make me ever grateful for the mystery of your making me part of your kingdom before the foundation of the world. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen

Father in heaven, send me a preacher who will deliver your ancient election of me by handing over Jesus Christ, him crucified, and him alone. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen

Father in heaven, as my preacher hands over Jesus Christ to be the life of this dead sinner, make use of this occasion as the when and where your Holy Spirit works faith in me. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen

Father in heaven, as I receive faith in Christ turn me loose upon the world to expend that faith in usefulness to my neighbors. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen

Father in heaven, as that faith is used up by my neighbors’ needs draw me to hear your Word again and, as my ears are filled with it, may my faith be kindled once again for even more usefulness. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen

Father in heaven, the Institute of Lutheran Theology has labored these last several years… a labor supported by faculty, students, and donors… a labor sustained by a confidence in your Word. Grant that such confidence be not in vain, or such support be futile. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen

Father in heaven, as I live out these days of my baptism until either Christ comes again or I go down to the dust, preserve me in a faith that is new every morning as I hear your mercies proclaimed to me. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen