Proper 14, Series A August 7, 2011
Lessons for The Eighth Sunday after Pentecost
Job 38:4-18 ~ When Job questioned God’s justice, God challenged Job with impenetrable questions.
Psalm 18:1-6 (7-16) [Antiphon 18:46]
Romans 10:5-17 ~ Faith that clings to the promise of Christ’s righteousness comes from God’s Word.
Matthew 14:22-33 ~ Even in Peter’s doubt, Jesus was there to save him from the threatening waves.
GATHERING THE TEXTS: God’s Word Strengthens Us in Our Doubts.
Job had asked some hard questions of God when he struggled with his disease, but God challenged him with harder questions and a stronger Word. God’s Word calls us to trust in His promise and be saved from spiritual disaster. The disciple Peter learned in a dramatic way that his fear would overcome him if it weren't for the strong, saving arm of his loving Lord who pulled him from the stormy waves. God helps us stand through the power of His Word.
PRAYER BEFORE THE SERVICE: Lord, when I have questions, you speak to me; when I have doubts, you strengthen me. Pick me up in your love and set me in the palm of your hand for eternity. Amen.
STEWARDSHIP THOUGHT: When we receive mercies from God’s hand we are obligated to inquire how He wants us to use them.
OFFERING PRAYER: We see, O Lord, Your gifts of love
hidden in Your vast creation.
Now fill our lives with acts of love
telling of Your great salvation.
CONVICTION AND COMFORT: Our questions often come from hearts that presume we have all the answers, but we hear God’s rebuke as well as Peter: “You of little faith,” for we doubt in our hearts and often show that doubt in our actions. It is not our cry, but God’s strong arm and the ever constant love of our merciful Savior that reaches out to rescue us from the storms of life. We are eager to proclaim the Word we have heard , “Whoever believes in Him will never be put to shame,” so all may hear and believe.
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