For this All Saints Sunday, Sarah Stenson teaches us what it means when Jesus describes those who are blessed. 

To be blessed means God has expended his benefits to you. And what are God’s benefits? Mercy and unfairness. In this old world, you’d expect the poor to get food, shelter, and money, yet when the Holy Spirit gives us faith in the promise of Christ, the poor get a sermon. 

She concludes with the Golden Rule. All the other world religions treat others how they want to be treated because it ultimately benefits them. We do this because we have Christ’s Word in our ear. 

CARE OF SOULS - ADDICTION

In Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those struggling with life’s challenging situations: addiction, death, family disharmony, and more. 

Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders.

With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the broken places of addiction not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ.Because in the end, it’s not about fixing people—it’s about preaching the Gospel.

Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of Souls - Addiction

CONFIRMATION 

Does your church have a confirmation class? Luther House of Study is excited to present a comprehensive online confirmation curriculum. The curriculum includes interactive digital lessons and supplemental teacher guides featuring custom videos, quizzes, drag and drop tasks, discussion questions, scripture passages, and prayers about the Apostles’ Creed, the 10 Commandments, the Lord’s Prayer, and the Sacraments. Visit lutherhouseofstudy.org/confirmation to dive into the curriculum and share it with your church or your pastor. 

GOSPEL 

Luke 6:20-31

20 Then he looked up at his disciples and said:  "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. 

21  "Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be filled. "Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. 

22 "Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. 

23 Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets. 

24  "But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation. 

25  "Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry. "Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep.

26 "Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets. 

27 "But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 

28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 

29 If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. 

30 Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. 

31 Do to others as you would have them do to you. 

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