The Scripture Lessons for the Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost are:
 
Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 and Psalm 78:1-7 or
Wisdom of Solomon 6:12-16 or Amos 5:18-24 and
Wisdom of Solomon 6:17-20 or Psalm 70
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Matthew 25:1-13
 
On a “Now” clock, the word “now” is repeated around the perimeter where numbers would normally be. As the clock hands rotate throughout the day, the time is always “now.” Each passage this week emerges from a particular “now” moment in God’s story. In Joshua, the Israelites must choose whom they will serve. For the psalmist, the time has come to tell the story of God’s faithfulness in the past to encourage us in the present. Paul assuages the Thessalonians’ concerns and reminds them to encourage one another. Jesus’ parable teaches that his return will be unexpected, so we should always be ready. Like the hands on a “Now” clock, each passage points to the present moment, summoning us to mindful, whole-hearted, unwaveringly joyful service to God and neighbor, now.
 
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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Rev. Amie