Collect

Almighty God, whom truly to know is everlasting life:  Grant us so perfectly to know your Son Jesus Christ to be the way the truth, and the life, that we may steadfastly follow his steps in the way that leads to eternal life; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.  Amen

Acts 7:55-60 . . . A deacon OF THE CHURCH, Stephen, preaches salvation history before the high priest and the council, culminating in a vision of Jesus standing at God’s right hand.

Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 . . . “The Hidden Face of Love”

1 Peter 2:2-10 . . . a series of images from the Old Testament, describing Christians as a chosen people called by God to God’s service.

John 14:1-14 . . . Jesus speaks with his disciples shortly before his passion and tells them that he is the way, the truth, and the life.

Sermon

Have you ever had someone tell you that you look like or act like your parents? This is true for Michael Renninger, pastor of St. Mary Catholic Church in Richmond, Virginia. He says that the family resemblance is strong. In John 14:1-14, Jesus shares an intimate moment with his disciples in which he reminds them that if they have seen and heard him, then they have seen and heard the Father. The family resemblance is strong.