The Scripture Lessons for the Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost are:
 
Exodus 12:1-14 and Psalm 149 or
Ezekiel 33:7-11 and Psalm 119:33-40
Romans 13:8-14
Matthew 18:15-20
 
We move forward in the story of Moses to the climax in Egypt, the tenth plague. God tells the Israelites to prepare for the terrible night to come and establishes the feast of Passover. The psalmist praises God for Faithfulness and victory, including overthrowing those who would oppress them. Egypt is not mentioned specifically in the psalm, yet the Passover represents just such a situation. In the Gospel, Jesus provides practical teaching on handling disagreements. Our first responsibility is to go to the other party privately and then include others only as necessary. Paul echoes Jesus in summarizing much of the Law in one simple commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31)

This Sunday at Pilgrim Church, we will have Part 3 of a three-part sermon series. This final sermon is entitled “How Shall We Be Together?” based on Matthew 18:15–20. Because we belong to Christ and one another, we practice truthful, gracious, restorative covenant relationships.
 
This is the season of Ordinary Time. “Ordinary” doesn’t mean typical or humdrum. Rather, it comes from the word “ordinal,” meaning “related to a series.” Think of Ordinary Time as an ordered, deliberate, six-month step-by-step pilgrimage through the story of Jesus’ life. This year, Matthew is our guide. The liturgical color for the pastor's stole and paraments (cloth hanging from the pulpit and lectern) is green. This symbolizes growth in the church.

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May you be blessed,
Rev. Amie