Sermon for 10/11/26:
19th Sunday after Trinity: Our Gospel reading for this Sunday is from the ninth chapter of St. Matthew’s account where our Lord begins the healing of a paralytic by first forgiving his sins. This draws disdain from some of the scribes who accuse Him of blasphemy, but He vindicates Himself by also healing the man, revealing to the crowd that He has the authority to do both as the God-Man. More than that, He shows Himself to be God in the way that He accomplishes His will: He speaks and what He speaks becomes reality. This is the way God has worked from the beginning and still works today for us.
The Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew, the ninth chapter:
Getting into a boat [Jesus] crossed over and came to his own city. And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he then said to the paralytic—“Rise, pick up your bed and go home.” And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.
Announcements:
*The website update is almost complete! As noted above, the sermon audio podcast is active once again. It will usually be uploaded on Sunday evenings, and included in the post on most Monday evenings.
*Pastor and his family will be set up for “Trunk or Treat” on Halloween and are hoping to get a spot at the Monster Mash on Main St. on Wednesday, October 28th as well. More details as we get closer, but come by and see us if you can!
*Advent is fast approaching with “soup suppers” at 6 PM and an evening service at 7 PM starting Wednesday, December 2nd. Come and share a warm meal with us and feed your soul with the Word of God!
This Week’s Sign
This resource is not intended to discourage anyone from gathering in person around God’s Word and Sacraments. Matthew 18:20 and Hebrews 10:25 make it clear that God’s Divine Service is meant to be experienced physically with other Christians. To that end we invite you to join us for our current offerings of fellowship, study, and worship, and to stay tuned for additional opportunities:
*Family Bible Study at 9:00 AM on Sundays: We continue in our study of Titus chapter two as we consider how it is that we are able to do any good works, what motivates or prompts us to do good works, and what are the good works that we are to do?
*Divine Service at 10:30 AM on Sundays: October 18th, 2026 is the 20th Sunday after Trinity. Our Gospel reading is Matthew 21:33-44.
If you’re not within driving distance of Ferndale CA, we encourage you to use the Church Locator at LCMS.org to find a church near you so you can gather in person with the communion of saints in your area.
