On recognizing faces
Lectionary Blog

On recognizing faces

Lectionary blog for Oct. 18, 2026 21st Sunday after Pentecost Isaiah 45:1-7; Psalm 96:1-9; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10; Matthew 22:15-22 I have this thing where it’s difficult for me to recognize…

“Happy Birthday” as a prayer
Living Faithfully

“Happy Birthday” as a prayer

Focal verse “Be filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to one another, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts” (Ephesians…

Who isn’t at the banquet?
Lectionary Blog

Who isn’t at the banquet?

Lectionary for Oct. 11, 2026 20th Sunday after Pentecost Isaiah 25:1-9; Psalm 23; Philippians 4:1-9; Matthew 22:1-14 Have you ever been invited to a fancy dinner? Maybe it was a…

We will always love her
Living Faithfully

We will always love her

In the aftermath of beloved singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist Dolly Parton’s death on Aug. 25, churches across the country have commemorated the 80-year-old American icon, her faith and her…

Cinematic benedictions
Voices of Faith

Cinematic benedictions

In cinema, we’re able to see ourselves in stories and find spiritual truths that help guide us. From clear biblical analogies in the lands of Narnia or Middle Earth to…

The holy work of reconciliation and renewal
Theology & Beliefs

The holy work of reconciliation and renewal

Series editor’s note: The 2026 theme for “Deeper understandings” is faithful witness in challenging times. This year, various authors will explore what it means for the ELCA, and each of us as Lutherans,…

Three harvests
Lectionary Blog

Three harvests

Lectionary for Oct. 4, 2026 19th Sunday after Pentecost Isaiah 5:1-7; Psalm 80:7-15; Philippians 3:4b-14; Matthew 21:33-46 A dear friend is known around town for creating beautiful bouquets from her…

The best day to repent
Lectionary Blog

The best day to repent

Lectionary for Sept. 27, 2026 18th Sunday after Pentecost Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32; Psalm 25:1-9; Philippians 2:1-31; Matthew 21:23-32 I’ll be honest, I don’t think of repentance as often as I…

Shutting the evil eye
Lectionary Blog

Shutting the evil eye

Lectionary for Sept. 20, 2026 17th Sunday after Pentecost Jonah 3:10–4:11; Psalm 145:1-8; Philippians 1:21-30; Matthew 20:1-16 We’ve been talking a lot about forgiveness recently. Good! I think that is…

Anchored in faith
Living Faithfully

Anchored in faith

Focal verse “So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by our letter”…

True forgiveness
Lectionary Blog

True forgiveness

Lectionary blog for Sept. 13, 2026 16th Sunday after Pentecost Genesis 50:15-21; Psalm 103:8-13; Romans 14:1-12; Matthew 18:21-35 We love grace! Can’t get enough of it, really. “Amazing Grace” is…

Tap into your vocation
Theology & Beliefs

Tap into your vocation

Editor’s note: On this Labor Day, we are sharing an article that first appeared in April 2020 that talks about our Lutheran vocation.  What shall I do with my life?…