Greetings in Christ,

This weekend revolves around marriage. Marriage is a beautiful thing, not simply for the joining together of man and woman as husband and wife, but as a living example of Christ’s love for His church.

The Midweek Meditation will deal even more heavily with this idea, but as Pastor Troup preaches on Ephesians 5 this weekend, he’ll talk about how in marriage we see an example of the church’s submission to Christ and Christ’s love and provision for the church. It’s a spectacular thing.

As you prepare for the Divine Service this weekend, you can take a look at the Service Folder to find the readings, prayers, and other parts of the service that will help to guide your reflection and prayer.

You can dig deeper into the parts of this weekend’s service with this segment from Issues, Etc.

Here’s the Lectionary Summary for the upcoming weekend that ties the themes of the weekend together:

The True Tradition of the Church Is the Ministry of the Gospel of Christ Jesus, Her Savior

The true tradition of the Church is the Gospel, which is the preaching and administration of Christ Jesus. Other traditions, although not commanded by God, may serve and support that sacred tradition of the Gospel. But the Church dare not “[reject] the commandment of God” in order to establish or hold to “the tradition of men” (Mark 7:8–9). Sinful people attempt to draw near to the Lord “with their mouth” and to honor Him “with their lips,” while their hearts are far removed from Him (Is. 29:13). Yet, He is “the Holy One of Israel,” who brings about salvation by His cross. Therefore, “the wisdom of their wise men shall perish,” but “the deaf shall hear” and “the eyes of the blind shall see” (Is. 29:14–19). This mystery of Christ is profound, for He is the husband of the Church, and He is her Savior. Not because of any works that she has done, but solely for the sake of His great love, He “gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word” (Eph. 5:25–26).

If you weren’t able to join us for service last week, you can catch up now.
I look forward to seeing you this weekend!

Blessings on your day!

In Christ,
Pastor Demski

Published by pastordemski