Sermon Introduction –
Joseph’s brothers were not good to him, yet he saw their actions used by God in a very good way — Jesus gives us some hard direction: love our enemies, forgive even those who are not good to us. Later he will model this behavior in the most incredible way, forgiving from the cross those who murdered him. His promise to us is that when we follow his ways, we will be blessed beyond our wildest imagination, having everything we need and more “dumped in our lap.”
Introduction to this week’s readings –
Mercy. Mercy. Mercy. Joseph lives it in Egypt. Jesus preaches it in the gospel. The Spirit guides us into merciful lives with the power of forgiveness to reconcile what is fractured and divided. Such merciful living is the baptismal blessing of having put on Christ. It is the gift of the life-giving Spirit. It is a reflection of the glory of God revealed in the Christ.
Reading: Genesis 45:3-11, 15
Introduction: Many years after being sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, Joseph reveals himself to them. Now the second-in-command in Egypt, Joseph reassures his brothers that God has used their evil intentions for good, to preserve life during a devastating famine, and Joseph forgives them
Reading: Luke 6:27-38
Introduction: Jesus continues to address a crowd of his disciples. He invites his followers to shower radical love, blessing, forgiveness, generosity, and trust even to enemies and outsiders. Living in harmony with God’s intent brings the reward of overflowing blessing
One Comment
Chuck Titcomb
Thank you for the wonderful service.