I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything you have given me is from you; for the words that you gave to me I have given to them, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. (John 17:6-8)
In today’s gospel, we hear Jesus’ words the night before his death. The words form Jesus’ prayer for his disciples and for all who would believe in him. God wants to have a relationship with all people.
This Week’s Focus In The Core Values Sermon Series:
Inviting
Christ invites all to follow him. Those who are already followers have the opportunity to be inviting to bring others into Christ’s flock so they, too, may live in God’s abundant life and light.
Sermon Theme
Invite a friend to church!
Sunday’s Worship Music
Today’s Hymn of the Day/Worship Song, At This Altar, was commissioned to draw out the themes from St. Peter’s core mission value study. The first stanza shows a God calling us to worship and leading us out into the world. The second stanza lifts up the Holy Spirit’s role in teaching and gathering together the community of faith. Finally, the third stanza speaks of Christ inviting us to serve our neighbors. Worshipping, following, learning, gathering, serving, and inviting all work together under the Trinitarian umbrella of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in this hymn of praise.
For Your Home Devotions
What do you think “being inviting” looks like? How do we invite others to “come and see”?
What are some of the first things that come to mind when you think about church? Are any of these things good topics to relay to those you are considering to invite to church?
Why do you think church is important? In what ways can this be relayed to those you would like to invite?
