Theme of the Day: Our God Wants Real Repentance and True Obedience
You have maybe heard the accusation or perhaps even made it yourself: “He’s so fake!” That charge claims someone’s friendliness or kindness is a sham. Such insincerity bothers us. We would generally rather someone be honest about how they feel about us than be fake.
Through a parable Jesus teaches us that God feels the same. God doesn’t want us to simply go through religious motions like some sort of show. He sees right through that. God’s desire is that our repentance would demonstrate sincere sorrow over sin. God wants us to see the grace and forgiveness he has shown us in Christ, and in response, to love him back deeply and sincerely.
Matthew 21:23-32
Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32
Philippians 2:1-11
Psalm 25
656 – As Surely As I Live, God Said
547 – At the Name of Jesus
653 – Lord, to You I Make Confession
651 – In Hopelessness and Near Despair
689 – Renew Me, O Eternal Light
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. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you will not despise. Alleluia.