Weekly Devotional Helps, August 10-16

The Gospel reading for this week is an uncomfortable one. Jesus does not treat the woman in our text with kindness or compassion. He ignores her at the start and then compares her to a dog. The Gentile woman then uses Jesus’ words as words of comfort. She is counted worthy enough to be a part of the household. She is not a child, but she is a dog that has been given enough. She will be satisfied with little. After she says these words, the floodgates of mercy flow. He will help her but will give her so much more. She is no dog but rather a child. Jesus instantly heals the Gentile’s daughter. This woman was given back her daughter and a seat with Christ at His Father’s table.

Readings-

Monday- 1 Samuel 25:23-44; 1 Corinthians 4:1-21

Tuesday- 1 Samuel 26:1-25; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13

Wednesday- 1 Samuel 28:3-25; 1 Corinthians 6:1-20

Thursday- 1 Samuel 31:1-13; 1 Corinthians 7:1-24

Friday- 2 Samuel 5:1-25; 1 Corinthians 8:1-13

Saturday- St. Mary, Mother of Our Lord Isaiah 61:7-11; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 1:39-55

Sunday- Isaiah 56: 1, 6-8; Romans 11:1-2a, 13-15, 28-32; Matthew 15:21-28

Collect for the Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost–

Almighty and everlasting Father, You give Your children many blessings even though we are undeserving. In every trial and temptation grant us steadfast confidence in Your loving-kindness and mercy; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.

Small Catechism- (If you want, try and memorize this by next Sunday.)

From The Daily Prayers- Asking a Blessing (before a meal)- The eyes of all look to you, O LORD, and You give them their food at the proper time. You open Your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. (Psalm 145:15-16) Then shall be said the Lord’s Prayer and the following: Lord God, heavenly Father, bless us and these Your gifts which we receive from Your bountiful goodness, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. (Kindergarten +)

Weekly Hymn of Emphasis- LSB 615 When in the Hour of Deepest Need

Helpful prayers from the Lutheran Prayer Companion this week- 80, 286, 427, 428, 438