Read Romans 3:19-28

Paul’s words stand at the heart of the preaching of Martin Luther and the othe Reformation leaders.  No human beings make themselves right with God through works of the law. We are brought into a right relationship with God through the divine activity centered in Christ’s death. This act is a gift of grace that liberates us from sin and empowers our faith in Jesus Christ. In v. 20, Paul says that through the law comes knowledge of sin, rather than salvation. How does God’s law make us aware of our sin and alienation from God? In verses 23-24, what is the “bad news” and what is the “good news”?

Prayer for the week

Gracious Father, we pray for your holy catholic church. Fill it with all truth and peace. Where it is corrupt, purify it; where it is in error, direct it; where in anything it is amiss, reform it; where it is right, strengthen it; where it is in need, provide for it; where it is divided, reunite it; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.