ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST 2021

We give thanks to you, O God, for you are good;
For your steadfast love endures forever!

Who can utter your mighty works, or show forth all your praise?
Blessed are they who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times.

Is not this the kind of worship that pleases me, says our God: to undo the bonds of injustice, to let the oppressed go free and break every yoke, to share bread with the hungry and shelter the homeless poor, to clothe the naked and not turn from our own people? I was hungry and you fed
me, thirsty and you have me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, sick or in prison and you visited me.

When did we see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, naked and clothe you, sick or in prison and visit you?

Truly, I say to you, when you did it to one of the least of these you did it to me.

If you do away with the yoke, the clenched fist, the wicked word, if you give your bread to the hungry and relief to the oppressed, then your light will rise like the dawn; your goodness will go before you and the glory of God behind you. God has shown us what is good and what is required: to do justice, to show constant love, and to walk humbly with our God.

Blessed are the poor in spirit,

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are those who mourn,

For they will be comforted.

Blessed are the meek,

For they will inherit the earth.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

For they will be filled.

Blessed are the merciful,

For they will receive mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart,

For they will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers,

For they will be called the children of God.

Jesus said You have heard it said, “You shall not murder”; and “whoever murders shall be liable to judgement,” But I say to you that if you are angry with your neighbor, you will be liable to judgment.

Blessed are the peacemakers

For they will be called the children of God. You have heard it said, “ An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.” But I say to you: Do not resist an evildoer. But of anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also.

Blessed are the peacemakers,

For they will be called the children of God. You have heard it said, “You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.” But I say to you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

Blessed are the peacemakers

For they will be called the children of God.

Watchword for the Week

Jesus said, Very truly, I tell you, whoever believes has eternal life. John 6:47

Watchword for Today:

Lord, you silence the song of the ruthless. Isaiah 25:5 NIV

Doctrinal Text:

Mary said, “He has shown strength with is arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly.” Luke 1:51-52

Prayer for Today

Merciful Lord, we seek after righteousness of your love in all the world. Help us to carry your work – not with the awful pride of weapons and pain but with hearts dedicated to service guided by your Spirit. Amen.

Congregation Watchword for the Year

The Lord will bless his people with peace. Psalm 29:11

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