There Are Consequences

Sermon Introduction –

There are consequences to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

Introduction to this week’s readings –

These forty days called Lent are like no other. It is our opportune time to return to the God who rescues; to receive the gifts of God’s grace; to believe with the heart and confess with the mouth the wonder of God’s love in Jesus; and to resist temptation at every turn. This is no small pilgrimage on which we have just embarked. It is a struggle Jesus knew. It is a struggle Jesus shares. The nearness of the Lord, in bread and wine, water and word, will uphold and sustain us.

Reading: Deuteronomy 26: 1-11

Introduction: The annual harvest festival, called the feast of Weeks, provides the setting for this reading.  This festival celebrates the first fruits of the produce of the land offered back to God in thanks.  In this text, worshipers announce God’s gracious acts on behalf of Israel.

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Reading: Romans 10:8b-13

Introduction: Paul reminds the Christians at Rome of the foundation of their creed, the confession of faith in the risen Christ as Lord.

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Reading: Luke 4:1-13

Introduction: After being filled with the Holy Spirit at his baptism, Jesus is led in the wilderness.  Through his responses to the temptations of the devil he defines what it means to be called “the Son of God.”

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