Theme of the Day: Judgment / Peace
If you were making a list of things that might make society more peaceful, would you include “more judgment”? Likely not. Many people assume that judgement leads to conflict, not peace. However, a lack of judgment is a luxury many cannot afford. Our world is full of victims of abuse, violence, and oppression. In many cases this evil goes unnoticed and unpunished. A future without the hope of judgment means no peace. If there is no hope of judgment, victims would be driven either into total despair or to be consumed by the desire for revenge. A future that includes judgment, however, gives those who are wronged the peace of knowing that one day there will be perfect justice.
When we are horribly wronged, what are our options? Taking matters into our own hands? Despair? Jesus provides a better option. Trust that he will keep his promise to return, bringing judgment. The effect of that promise? We have peace, knowing that every wrong will eventually be righted by the one righteous Judge.
Luke 21:5-19
Malachi 4:1-6
2 Thessalonians 1:5-10
Psalm 98A
324 – O Lord, How Shall I Meet You
488 – The Day Is Surely Drawing Near
495 – The King Shall Come
855 – The Church’s One Foundation
491 – Come, You Thankful People, Come
Prayer of the Day: Lord God Almighty, so rule and govern our hearts and minds by your Holy Spirit that we may always look forward to the end of this present evil age and the day of your righteous judgment. Keep us steadfast in true and living faith, and present us at last holy and blameless before 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. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown. Alleluia.