Preparing for Worship - February 6, 2022

The Old Testament lesson for this Sunday is Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13). Isaiah sees a vision of God Himself in heaven in great glory, with angels singing of His holiness. Isaiah knows that he is in big trouble, as a poor miserable sinner in the presence of the King, the Lord of hosts. An angel comes and touches his lips with a burning coal, bringing God’s forgiveness for his sin and guilt. Only then can he respond to God’s call: “Here am I. Send me."

The Gospel lesson, Luke 5:1-11, is the parallel to the Old Testament lesson. Simon (Peter) is a fisherman, and Jesus borrows his boat and teaches from there. Then Jesus enables Peter to catch a huge number of fish. Peter can only think of how sinful and unworthy he is to be in the presence of the Lord Jesus. Jesus takes away Peter’s fears and calls him to be “catching men,” and Peter is now able to follow Jesus.

The Psalm is Psalm 138, a psalm of David. David praises God for helping him again in a difficult situation. His whole heart is full of thanks, and there is no room for false gods - only God’s Name and Word. David humbly knows that the Lord will somehow carry out His purposes for him; and one day (with the coming of the Messiah) other kings who hear the Words of God’s mouth will give Him thanks and praise, as well.

The Epistle continues readings from 1 Corinthians 12-15, from chapter 14:12b-20. Paul talks about worship and how important it is to focus not on what makes us feel good as individuals, but what builds up the body of believers and helps instruct even “outsiders” in Christ and the faith, using our spirits and minds in prophecy (sharing the Word of God.) Then we can all pray and sing praise and say “Amen” to our Lord together, in thanksgiving.