Introduction to the Word for Worship
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, *
for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me.
-Psalm 23:4
“Your rod and your staff comforted me”: with one he supports my weakness, with the other he guides toward the right way. You would not be wrong, however, to apply this to the saving cross: by its seal and remembrance we are rid of the hostile demons and guided to the true path. This is the meaning of “your rod and your staff comforted me”: the cross is assembled from two rods, with the upright staff confirming and directing those who believe in him and strengthening those who are weak, and using the crossbar as a rod against the demons. -Theodoret of Cyr
The Collect of the Day
Gracious Father, whose blessed Son Jesus Christ came down from heaven to be the true bread which gives life to the world: Evermore give us this bread, that he may live in us, and we in him; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
The Word:
(Click on the links below to read Sunday's passages)
First Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
Psalm 23 (follows the playlist below)
Second Reading: Ephesians 5:1-14
(click below on the Spotify Playlist to listen)
Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd; *
therefore I can lack nothing.
2 He shall feed me in green pastures *
and lead me forth beside the waters of comfort.
3 He shall refresh my soul *
and bring me forth in the paths of righteousness for his Name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, *
for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me.
5 You shall prepare a table before me,
in the presence of those who trouble me; *
you have anointed my head with oil,
and my cup shall be full.
6 Surely your goodness and mercy
shall follow me all the days of my life, *
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Comments