Last Sunday of the Church Year

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It is the way of the world to seek power, influence, and renown. Indeed, we are often judged on our desire to climb to the top and what, or who, we are willing to sacrifice to get there. That is the exact opposite of the One who has rule and authority over all things in heaven and on earth. Our Lord Jesus Christ, when coming to rescue us, those who had rejected Him, came in the greatest humility, taking the form of a servant and subjecting Himself to the most agonizing and humiliating death of crucifixion. He didn’t seek to dominate us or subjugate us. He came to us lowly and riding on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a donkey. That is because He came to save us. He came to suffer the the terrible judgement which we deserve so that we might be free from eternal damnation and instead live in His kingdom of grace, mercy, and love. One day the Lord Jesus will come again to gather His children. On that day He will come in glory and power to execute the final judgment against Satan and all who rejected His gracious redemption. And so that we may be prepared for that coming, our Redeemer still comes in humility. His voice is still heard as the Gospel is proclaimed in all the world calling all to repentance and faith. He stands in our midst under bread and wine to feed our wearied and burdened souls with the heavenly strength of His pardon. His Spirit refreshes and strengthens us as we return to the the promises of our Baptism, repenting of our sin and seeking Christ’s mercy. What joy is ours to receive this Christ who still comes to us in such deep and saving humility so that we might receive Him with joy when He comes again in glory! God bless you this coming Lord’s Day as you gather around the one who comes to save you.

Pastor Ulmer