Livestream may be delayed on June 16 due to connectivity at the Picnic Shelter. We will post the service as soon as possible. Thanks!
Readings for the Day:
Ezekiel 17:22-24: Tree imagery is used in a messianic prophecy to tell how the Lord will choose someone from Judah’s royal family (the cedar tree) to reign over all creation. This tree will be planted on Mount Zion, the location of the holy temple.
II Corinthians 5:6-17: Paul encourages believers to live by faith and not by sight. We do not consider Jesus from a human perspective but through the eyes of faith, believing he died for all and was raised. All who are in Christ are now in God’s new creation.
Mark 4:26-34: Jesus frequently uses parables to teach ordinary people as they are able to hear and understand. Images of sowing and growing show the vitality of God’s kingdom.
‘From Sunday & Seasons, copyright 2023 Augsburg Fortress’
Questions To Ponder:
1— What do you think it means that the righteous flourish like a palm tree? (Psalm 92:1)
2—What does it mean to be a new creation in Christ? (II Cor. 5:17)
3—How is the kingdom like a mustard seed? (Mark 4:26)
4—How do these texts speak to you today?
Prayer: O God, you are the tree of life, offering shelter to all the world. Graft us into yourself and nurture our growth, that we may bear your truth and love to those in need. Amen.