Dear First Lutheran Community,

It has been a true joy, privilege, and blessing for Drew and me to become part of First Lutheran. We’re deeply grateful for the warm welcome we’ve received and look forward to getting to know each of you more in the days ahead. I’m also excited for the journey we’ll share as we build upon the strong foundation already in place and explore new ways to respond together to God’s call.

Spring is in full swing, and summer is coming! In Year C of the Revised Common Lectionary, the Gospel readings during June, July, and August primarily draw from the Gospel of Luke, emphasizing themes such as Jesus’ healing power, teachings on discipleship, and the inclusivity of God’s kingdom.

June:

• Early June: The readings highlight Jesus’ authority over illness and death, showcasing his compassion through miracles like raising the widow’s son at Nain (Luke 7:11-17).
• Mid to Late June: Focus shifts to the cost and nature of discipleship. Passages include Jesus’ interactions that underscore commitment, such as his responses to potential followers about the sacrifices involved in following him (Luke 9:57-62).

July:

• Early July: Emphasis is on mission and outreach, with Jesus sending out the seventy-two disciples, instructing them on proclaiming the kingdom and demonstrating its nearness through acts of healing (Luke 10:1-11).
• Mid-July: Teachings center on love and service, exemplified by the Parable of the Good Samaritan, which challenges social boundaries and calls for compassionate action (Luke 10:25-37).
• Late July: Themes of prayer and persistence emerge, as seen in Jesus teaching the Lord’s Prayer and encouraging persistent prayer through the Parable of the Friend at Midnight (Luke 11:1-13).

August:

• Early August: Jesus addresses issues of wealth and priorities, warning against greed and emphasizing trust in God’s provision, illustrated by the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21).
• Mid-August: Teachings focus on readiness and faithfulness, urging vigilance and preparedness for the coming of God’s kingdom (Luke 12:32-40).
• Late August: Jesus challenges social norms and highlights humility, as seen in his teachings on choosing places of honor and hosting gatherings that include the marginalized (Luke 14:1, 7-14).

Throughout these months, the Gospel readings in Year C invite reflection on living out one’s faith through compassion, service, and a deep commitment to the values of God’s kingdom.

I’m excited for us to dive into these themes together and figure out how we can take the next faithful steps in living out our faith as a community.

In Christ,

Pastor Amy