Commitment Sunday (MPLS)

Romans 3:21–28

But now, apart from law, the righteousness of God has been disclosed, and is attested by the law and the prophets, the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction, since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; they are now justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a sacrifice of atonement by his blood, effective through faith. He did this to show his righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over the sins previously committed; it was to prove at the present time that he himself is righteous and that he justifies the one who has faith in Jesus. Then what becomes of boasting? It is excluded. By what law? By that of works? No, but by the law of faith. For we hold that a person is justified by faith apart from works prescribed by the law.

John 8:31–36

Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, ‘You will be made free’?” Jesus answered them, “Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.

‘Text Message’ Reflection:
From Pastor Chris Enstad

Jesus speaks about freedom—freedom rooted in truth. “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John 8:31–32). On Reformation Sunday, we remember how the truth of the gospel was rediscovered and shared boldly. Martin Luther and other reformers called the Church to return to the heart of the gospel: that we are saved by grace, not by works.

This Sunday also marks Commitment Sunday, when we reflect on how we respond to God’s grace in our own lives. The freedom Jesus offers is not just freedom from something but freedom for others. Our response to God’s gift of mercy is to live in service to God and one another. Our commitments—whether of time, resources, or gifts—are expressions of our freedom in Christ. We are free to love, to serve, and to participate in God’s mission in the world.

As we celebrate the Reformation and make our commitments today, let us reflect on what it means to live in the freedom that Christ offers, a freedom that calls us to deeper discipleship and stewardship.

‘Text Message’ Reflection Questions:

• How does the freedom offered by Jesus shape the way I live and the commitments I make?
• In what ways can I continue to grow as a disciple, following Christ’s word more closely in my daily life?

Prayer:
Gracious God, we thank you for the freedom that comes through knowing your truth. As we remember the Reformation, we celebrate the gift of your grace that sets us free. Help us live as faithful disciples, committed to your word and your ways. Guide our hearts as we offer ourselves in service to you and to one another. Strengthen us in our commitments so that our lives may reflect your love and grace to the world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.