Theme of the Day: What Seems To Help In Life Fails In Death; What Seems To Fail In Life Helps In Death
Last week we learned the hard truth that money cannot bring true happiness and fulfillment. This week we see that as much as money lets us down in life, its ultimate failure to deliver on its promises happens in death. Though we might be fooled into thinking money helps in life, it will certainly fail us in death. Conversely, that which seems to offer little help in life will never fail us in death. The best example of this is the gospel. Those who hear and heed the Scriptures often appear to receive little benefit in life. Living by God’s Word doesn’t make life easier. In fact, it means a life filled with crosses and self-denial. Great wealth gains you the admiration and respect of the world. Being true to Scripture brings scorn and ridicule. Yet those who find the help they need in God rather than in money will never be disappointed. In death they will receive a reward that dwarfs even the best things money can buy.
Luke 16:19-31
Amos 6:1-7
Hebrews 13:1-6
Psalm 146
632 – Lord, Open Now My Heart to Hear
817 – Lord, Thee I Love with All My Heart
718 – Though Thoughtless Thousands Choose the Road
596 – To God the Holy Spirit Let Us Pray
644 – Almighty God, Your Word Is Cast
Prayer of the Day: Mercifully grant, O God, that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts, for without your help we are unable to please you; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Gospel Acclamation: Alleluia. If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead. Alleluia.