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First Reading - Micah 6:1–8

Psalm - Psalm 15:1–5

Second Reading - 1 Corinthians 1:18–31

Gospel - Matthew 5:1–12

These beatitudes are part of the core teaching of Jesus. Nowhere in his essential didactics do we hear a theology of glory. The poor, the mourners, and the meek are a few of those who will receive God’s richest blessings. Are these gifts of the cross what we ask of God — or do we desire affluence and welfare? Beware your theology, since the rich have already received their reward in full (Luke 6:24).

First Reading - Isaiah 58:3–9a

Psalm - Psalm 112:1–9

Second Reading - 1 Corinthians 2:1–12, 13–16

Gospel - Matthew 5:13–20

The earth needs salt. All of creation is rather tasteless, for it is imperfect and even corrupt before God. Therefore, the earth needs “God’s salt” (Luther’s Works, Vol. 21). The Church is called by Christ to be this salt of God. Yet salt does not only flavor things. Salt preserves; salt also heals — but not without pain. Do not imagine that by being God’s salt, you will bring flavor and healing to a corrupt world without the world crying about your saltiness. Do not expect that by setting your Lamp upon the stand that those who have been dwelling in darkness will not feel some pain in the retinas of their souls.

First Reading - Exodus 24:8–18

Psalm - Psalm 2:6–12

Second Reading - 2 Peter 1:16–21

Gospel - Matthew 17:1–9

Where to dwell? Peter was conflicted. The great patriarch and prophet stood with Jesus on the mount. In which should Peter take refuge? Whose word should be considered? The answer for Peter was to build three tents, one for each who stood before him, so that he might take sanctuary with each. God’s answer was starkly different. As the cloud of God’s glory overshadowed the three disciples, Moses and Elijah disappeared, leaving only the beloved Son standing before the three. The word of Lord to them that day echoes down the millennia to us: Listen to Jesus.

First Reading - Genesis 3:1–21

Psalm - Psalm 32:1–7

Second Reading - Romans 5:12–19

Gospel - Matthew 4:1–11

Imagine the audacity of Satan, that he would tempt the Son of Man. He knew that if he could get Jesus to listen to his word instead of the Father’s, all would be lost. Indeed, we would remain lost forever. Thanks be to God that our Lord, though weak in this flesh, was strong in the word of God. All of those beguiling promises of the devil were trumped by the written and living word of God. “It is written” was all that was needed to send Satan packing.