As a new lectionary year begins, Matthew's Gospel invites reflection through its unique lens. Addressing both Jewish and Gentile followers, Matthew intertwines tradition with inclusive teachings, urging a return to God’s justice amidst chaos. His prophetic voice emphasizes community care while expanding the Gospel's reach to all nations, blending rootedness with transformation.
Luke 23:33-43 (Christ the King) – November 23, 2025
Christ the King Sunday in Luke reveals a Messiah who overturns power not through revolution but through mercy. From the Magnificat to the cross, Jesus challenges entrenched systems—even our own. His kingship dismantles illusions, levels divisions, and meets us with forgiveness. At the end of the year, his kingdom of compassion begins again.
Luke 21:5-19 (23rd Sunday after Pentecost) – November 16, 2025
The post discusses the significance of apocalyptic texts in the lectionary, emphasizing their role in preparing Christians for hope rather than fear. It highlights the early church's reliance on these narratives amid turmoil, illustrating that despair is not the end of the story. Ultimately, it calls believers to share hope and testify to God’s transformative power.
Luke 20:27-38 (22nd Sunday after Pentecost) – November 9, 2025
In Luke 20:27–38, Jesus refuses to debate resurrection on the Sadducees’ terms, reimagining it not as an extension of earthly hierarchies but as life wholly held in God. Resurrection, Luke shows, isn’t future bureaucracy—it’s present liberation. It transforms relationships, undoes systems of possession and power, and invites us to live now as children of the living God.
Luke 18:1-8 (19th Sunday after Pentecost) – October 19, 2025
This parable highlights the need for persistent faith and prayer, contrasting a powerless widow with an indifferent judge. Despite her vulnerability, the widow’s relentless pursuit of justice exemplifies faith that argues and refuses to remain silent. Ultimately, it reassures believers that God, unlike the judge, is attentive and just, even amid apparent delays.
Luke 17:11-19 (18th Sunday after Pentecost) – October 12, 2025
In Luke 17:11-19, Jesus heals ten lepers, emphasizing the importance of faith beyond mere obedience. Among them, a Samaritan turns back to thank Jesus, illustrating true faith as recognition of grace. Salvation is presented as an encounter with Christ, highlighting that gratitude is a response to already received mercy, not a prerequisite for healing.
Luke 16:19-31 (16th Sunday after Pentecost) – September 28, 2025
The parable of the rich man and Lazarus contrasts the fates of a wealthy man who ignores the poor and Lazarus, who receives comfort after death. It emphasizes God's reversal of fortunes, highlighting the necessity of repentance shaped by Christ's love. Ultimately, it challenges believers to recognize Jesus’s role in bridging divides and offering hope.
Luke 16:1-13 (15th Sunday after Pentecost) – September 21, 2025
This parable presents a challenging interpretation, differing from typical depictions of God's grace. It reflects real-life complexities, questioning our actions amidst imperfection. While the manager's motives aren't purely altruistic, he aids his community despite uncertainty. It challenges us to act toward love and justice, trusting in God's grace amid our flaws.
Luke 15:1-10 (14th Sunday after Pentecost) – September 14, 2025
Luke 15, the "lost and found" chapter, presents parables illustrating God's relentless love for the lost and the joy of reconciliation. These parables target both sinners and religious insiders, emphasizing the need for honest confession and repentance. Genuine repentance leads to freedom and restoration, allowing God's grace to transform lives and relationships.
Luke 14:25-33 (13th Sunday after Pentecost) – September 7, 2025
Jesus emphasizes that true discipleship requires a radical commitment, prioritizing allegiance to him above all else. He warns that following him entails counting the cost, including the potential loss of family ties and possessions. Discipleship is not about power or worldly success but about transformative love and self-sacrifice.
Micah Krey 