Reflection on the Word in our Worship
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.
-Galatians 6:1 (ESV)
Paul does not say “punish” or “pass judgment” but “restore.” Nor did he even stop there, but showing that he strongly desired them to be patient with those who stumbled he adds “in a spirit of gentleness.” He does not say “in gentleness” but “in a spirit of gentleness,” showing that this also is the will of the Spirit and that the capacity to correct another’s faults is a spiritual gift. -St. John Chrysostom
The Collect of the Week
Grant us, O Lord, we pray, the spirit to think and do always those things that are right, that we, who can do no good thing apart from you, may by you be enabled to live according to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Word:
(Click on the links below to read Sunday's passages)
First Reading: Isaiah 66:10-16
Psalm 66:1-8 (see below)
Second Reading: Galatians 6:1-18
Gospel Reading: Luke 10:1-20
Psalm 66:1-8
1 Be joyful in God, all you lands; *
sing praises to the honor of his Name;
make his praise to be glorious.
2 Say to God, “How wonderful are your works; *
through the greatness of your power
shall your enemies cower before you.
3 For all the world shall worship you, *
sing to you, and praise your Name.”
4 O come and see the works of God, *
how wonderful he is in his doing toward all people.
5 He turned the sea into dry land,
so that they went through the water on foot; *
therefore in him let us rejoice.
6 He rules with his power for ever;
his eyes keep watch over the nations; *
let not the rebellious exalt themselves.
7 Bless our God, you peoples, *
and make the voice of his praise to be heard,
8 Who holds our soul in life, *
and does not allow our feet to slip.