With Easter and Pentecost behind us we look toward the summer. This Sunday, in addition to being Memorial Day weekend, is the Sunday when we celebrate one of those great mysteries of faith which defies explanation. The doctrine of the Holy Trinity, that our God is Three-in-One and One-in-Three, reminds us that there is a community or relational aspect when it comes to God. God was, is, and will always be. God doesn’t only issue orders or bend things to God’s will from afar; God is also working among us. We are called to be in relationship with this relational God — a relationship that is based on love and mercy. In a way, this can be a model for our church built on relationships with one another and with God. We entrust these relationships to God’s care as we continue to move forward as a community of faith.
Readings
Here are our appointed readings for this week for you to read and meditate on as you prepare your hearts for worship this weekend.
Isaiah 6:1-8
Isaiah’s vision and call
Psalm 29
Worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness
Romans 8:12-17
Living by the Spirit
John 3:1-17
Entering the reign of God through water and the Spirit
Worship Music
This week we make a nod to our secular calendar with Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory. We also celebrate the Holy Trinity with some classic trinitarian hymns: Holy God, We Praise Your Name (ELW 414) and Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God almighty! (ELW 413). Recognizing that all of our language is weak when it comes to describing the relationship of the Trinity, we still make an attempt with these texts and tunes which are beloved. In them both we join our voices with the voices of the angels who heap praises on God whose goodness and mercy endure forever.
Reflection Questions
As the summer approaches, how will you experience the Holy Trinity in your life? Will you heed the call of the Spirit and spread the love of God through acts of loving kindness? Will you embark on a journey to read about the life and ministry of Jesus? Will you engage in prayer with God to build on the relational aspect of your faith?
