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Jesus takes what we have and multip

When Israel was in exile, God called Ezekiel to speak for Him to tell the truth to Israel. The Lord made no promises about results, but at least the people would recognize that a prophet had been among them. After His hometown did not believe His Messiahship, Jesus still sent out the Twelve to the surrounding towns. Not only did He instruct them about what to do or say, He also prepared them for rejection and how to respond to it. Now it is our turn, as we are called to tell others the truth about sin and grace. But we might think we are not up to the task. Here, Paul is our model, for he was well aware of his limitations, including his thorn in the flesh. Rather than keep silent, he spoke and wrote, confident that God’s power was made perfect in weakness. Our worship today is a reminder that above all else, the truth reveals God’s great love for us in Christ.

Advent is a season for us to grow in hope. We gather amid a world that in many ways seems hopeless. Extremists on both ends of the political spectrum seem to control almost everything we hear, read, and see. Deep divisions over race, politics, and economics loom over us like a dark storm cloud. How can the Church possibly make a difference in all of this? Today’s Readings acknowledge the distress and fear that the world’s foundations are being shaken. And right in the middle of it all, there is hope. Jesus says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away” (Luke 21:33). The prophet Jeremiah declares God’s promise to restore His people and all creation. If we were left to ourselves, there would be little room for such hope. But God does not leave us alone. By His Word and Sacraments, God establishes our hearts and prepares us for Jesus’ coming final restoration. Until that day, we wait, we pray, we hope. Listen-In or Watch below!