Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany (Year C, Luke)
Scripture Readings: Genesis 45:3-11, 15; Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40; 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50; Luke 6:27-38
Call to Worship
One: Commit your way to the Lord, trust in him, and he will act.
All: God will make our righteousness shine like the dawn, our justice like the noonday sun.
One: Love your enemies and do good, expecting nothing in return.
All: The Lord is our salvation and our stronghold in times of trouble. Let us worship God together!
Prayer of Confession
Merciful God, we confess that we often fall short of your call to love unconditionally. We hold grudges, judge others harshly, and fail to show mercy as you have shown mercy to us. Forgive us, Lord, for withholding kindness and for repaying harm with harm. Transform our hearts to reflect your love and grace, so that we may be instruments of your peace and forgiveness in the world. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
One: Hear the good news: God’s mercy is from everlasting to everlasting. In Christ, we are forgiven and called to new life.
All: Thanks be to God! We are renewed by his grace and set free to love as Christ loves.
Prayer of Illumination
God of wisdom and truth, open our hearts and minds to the scripture we hear today. Plant your word like a seed within us, that it may grow and bear fruit in our lives. Teach us to live in love, mercy, and generosity, just as you have shown us through your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Prayers of the People
God of steadfast love, we thank you for your abundant grace and mercy. You call us to love even our enemies and to live in ways that reflect your kingdom. Strengthen us to embody your love in our relationships, communities, and beyond.
We pray for those who are in need of your healing and comfort. Be with the sick, the grieving, and the weary. Bring hope to those in despair and peace to those in conflict.
Lord, we lift up our leaders and those in authority. Grant them wisdom, justice, and compassion to govern with integrity and care for the vulnerable.
Help us to trust in your promises, to delight in your ways, and to share your blessings with others. In all things, guide us to be reflections of your love and mercy. Amen.
Prayer of Dedication
God of abundance, we offer these gifts as an act of faith and gratitude for all you have provided. Use them to further your kingdom and to bless those in need. May our lives and offerings glorify you and bring hope to the world. Amen.
Bible Passages for the Seventh Sunday After the Epiphany (Year C)
Genesis 45:3-11, 15: Joseph Reunites with His Brothers
Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, offering forgiveness instead of vengeance. He assures them that God used their actions for good, to preserve life during the famine. This passage highlights the power of reconciliation and God’s providence.
Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40: Trust in the Lord
The psalmist contrasts the fleeting success of evildoers with the enduring blessings of those who trust in God. It encourages patience, trust, and delight in the Lord, promising salvation and protection to the righteous.
1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50: The Resurrection Body
Paul explains the mystery of the resurrection, comparing the earthly body to a seed that is transformed into a glorious, spiritual body. He reminds us that we bear the image of the earthly man, Adam, but will one day bear the image of the heavenly man, Christ.
Luke 6:27-38: Love Your Enemies
Read the verse-by-verse breakdown here.
Jesus challenges his followers to love their enemies, do good to those who hate them, and give without expecting in return. He teaches that mercy, forgiveness, and generosity reflect the character of God and are central to living as children of the Most High.
Themes for the Seventh Sunday After the Epiphany
Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers in Genesis reflects God’s call to extend grace and seek reconciliation. This theme continues in Jesus’ teaching to love our enemies and respond with mercy.
Living as God’s People
The psalm and gospel emphasize trust in God and a life of righteousness characterized by love, generosity, and compassion, embodying the values of God’s kingdom.
The Hope of Resurrection
Paul’s discussion of the resurrection body points to the transformative power of God’s grace, offering hope for a future in Christ where we will be made new.
