Introit: Ps. 25:1-2a, 5b, 15, 20; antiphon: Ps. 25:16, 18\nGradual: Ps. 55:22a, 16, 18a

Old Testament: Micah 7:18-20

Psalm 103:1-13 (antiphon: v. 8)

Epistle: 1 Tim. 1:12-17

      or 1 Peter 5:6-11\nProperVerse: Ps. 18:1-2a

Gospel: Luke 15:1-10

      or Luke 15:11-32\n

Jesus Receives Sinners

"This man receives sinners and eats with them" (Luke 15:2). The Pharisees' statement of judgment against Jesus is in fact a proclamation of Gospel truth. For our God is one who delights in mercy, who casts all our sins into the depths of the sea through the cross (Micah 7:18_20). "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" (1 Tim. 1:15). Those who refuse to be counted as sinners also refuse Jesus who came only for sinners. Those like the older son (Luke 15:11_32), who think they are righteous of themselves, will not join in the heavenly celebration over the sinner who repents and so remain outside of the Father's house. Let us therefore be on guard against self_righteously trusting in our own merits. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you" (1 Peter 5:6). Rejoice that Jesus receives sinners like us and that He still sits at table with us in the Holy Supper, bestowing His forgiveness and life.