Readings for the Day:
Jeremiah 31:31-34:  The renewed covenant will not be breakable, but like the old covenant it will expect the people to live upright lives.  To know the Lord means that one will defend the cause of the poor and needy.  The renewed covenant is possible only because the Lord will forgive iniquity and not remember sin.  Our hope lies in a god who forgets.
Romans 3:19-28:  Paul’s words stand at the heart of the preaching of Luther and the other Reformers.  No human beings make themselves right with God through works of the law.  We are brought into a right relationship with God through the divine activity centered in Christ’s death.  This act is a gift of grace that liberates us from sin and empowers our faith in Jesus Christ.
John 8:31-36:  Jesus speaks of truth and freedom as spiritual realities known through his word.  He reveals the truth that sets people free from sin.

 ‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2023 Augsburg Fortress’

Questions To Ponder:
1— How do you understand the Reformation? 
2—How do you experience grace? (Romans 3:19-28)
3—How do you understand truth in our world today? (John 8:31-36)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?

Prayer:  Almighty God, gracious Lord, we thank you that your Holy Spirit renews the church in every age.  Pour out your Holy Spirit on your faithful people.  Keep them steadfast in your word, protect and comfort them in times of trial, defend them against all enemies of the gospel and bestow on the church your saving peace.  Amen.