Faith under pressure – four points of encouragement
Contradictions in the prayer of prayers and misunderstandings in the interaction of blessing and gratitude: this is what the Sunday services in September are all about.
The bridge between near and far
“In this manner, therefore, pray: our Father in heaven.” This is the prayer that Jesus Christ Himself taught. But a closer look at the very beginning reveals a contradiction: on the one hand, there is the very personal address to God as “our Father”, which was not entirely unknown in Judaism at the time, but unusual. On the other hand, we sanctify His name, acknowledging His holiness and majesty.
Near and far in this one verse in Matthew 6: 9? The divine service on the first Sunday of September, will explain how this fits together and what effects it has on the everyday lives of believers: it affects our prayer life, our use of language, and our relationship with our neighbour.
James explains to Matthew
“And do not lead us into temptation.” This is another sentence from the Lord’s Prayer that can be perceived as contradictory. Why would the benevolent God deliberately lead human beings into evil?
The divine service on the second Sunday, on 14 September 2025, will explain how this petition from Matthew 6: 13 is actually to be understood, and what the letter of James has to do with it. The second part of the verse is decisive: “But deliver us from the evil one.” God has given us the means and opportunities for this, but we must also use them.
True wealth
Rich, beautiful, and healthy. As if! Blessing is something completely different. But what exactly? And why is that supposed to be good? The letter to the Ephesians gives answers in chapter 1, starting in verse 3. The Chief Apostle speaks about “striking signs”.
The focus of the divine service on the third Sunday, 21 September 2025, is on God’s blessing, which is of a spiritual nature. It does not change our living conditions but strengthens our relationship with God. And this is brought about by very concrete blessings.
More than a tithe
Abram brought an offering, specifically “a tithe of all”. This is what Genesis 14: 20 tells us. But this is not his most important response to God’s generosity. He also resists an immoral offer that would have made him a rich man.
And what does this ancient story have to do with us today? This will be explained in the divine service on the fourth Sunday of September, 28 September 2025. Small spoiler alert: true blessing is not experienced in earthly power or wealth, but by surrendering to the will of God.
Photo: Muhammad – stock.adobe.com