Collect: Proper 8

Almighty God, you have built your Church upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief cornerstone;  Grant us so to be joined together in unity of spirit by their teaching, that we may be made a holy temple acceptable to you; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen

Genesis 21:8-21 — Sarah’s jealousy as she fears that Ishmael may supplant her son Isaac in her husband Abraham’s affections.

Psalm 86: 1-10, 16-17 — A prayer to the gracious and loving Lord for mercy and guidance

Romans 6:1-11 — Christian disciples  have been joined with Christ in his death through baptism, so they are to know a resurrection like his.

Matthews 10:24-39 — Jesus warns his disciples of troubles to come, but offers them the assurance of the Father’s care and his own readiness to support them before God when they speak up for him.

Rachel May, Pastor of Boulevard United Methodist Church in Richmond, Virginia, takes on that difficult saying of Jesus, “Whoever welcomes you welcomes me” (Matthew 10:42-44), and especially the idea that those who welcome his disciples will be “rewarded.” What? Does Jesus have a rewards program? And is that what it takes to get people to do ministry?