Preparation for Sunday Service
For Sunday the 28st of June, 2026 (Propers 8)
As we gather for worship today the appointed readings continue the themes of the past few weeks. Again they portray realistically the antagonism of the world to God and His Christ. Jeremiah spoke for the Lord concerning war, disaster, and plague—God’s response to the rebellion of His people—but the people wanted only to listen to false prophets of peace. Jesus describes His coming as bringing not “peace, but a sword.” His arrival causes division. You are either with Him and against the world or with the world and against Him. St. Paul notes that the conflict and division exists even within our own bodies, so that our sinful passions rebel against the new life of the Spirit. Nevertheless, by his resurrection Jesus showed himself to be master even over death. Those who are on His side, who have been united with Him through Baptism into his death, are alive with Him. Those who remain with Him, who struggle against the world, will share in His victory forever. Thanks be to God!
