St. John's Lutheran Church - Des Moines, Iowa

Jesus’ public ministry begins with the calling of four fishermen. God’s kingdom has come near! In Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, we are reminded that Christ’s cross is at the heart of the gospel message. Through the cross, we recognize that God suffers with us and all who find themselves oppressed. The cross of Christ is our light and salvation.  

The witness of John the Baptist compels those around him to share further testimonies. Jesus is recognized by John the Baptist as the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. In the text from Isaiah, the servant, identified as Israel, understands the mission – to bring the news of God’s victory to all the ends of the earth. Strengthened by Word and Sacrament, we are called to invite others to hear this saving Word made known to us. 

During the weeks immediately following the celebration of the nativity of our Lord, the church recognizes some of the key events in Jesus’ life and the beginning of his public ministry. When we hear the story of Jesus’ baptism, it reminds us of our own baptisms and the gifts we receive: adoption into the family of God and the blessings we receive from the Holy Spirit. In the readings for today, Jesus is recognized as the one who brings justice and light to all nations. With open ears, hearts, and minds, we listen for God’s voice coming from the heavens, and we rejoice in God’s presence in bread and wine. 

Matthew 2:1-12

Matthew 2:13-23

Matthew 1:18-25

Matthew 11:2-11

Matthew 3:1-12

Matthew 24:36-44

 Luke 23:33-43

Luke 21:5-19

Luke 20:27-38

Luke 6:20-31 

John 8:31-36

Luke 18:1-8

Luke 17:5-10

Luke 16:19-31

Luke 16:1-13

Luke 15:1-10

John 6:41-51