04/10/2025
From the Presbyter’s Desk
17th Sunday after Pentecost
Theme: God Does Not Abandon His People When They Go Astray
Beloved in Christ,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. As we celebrate this 17th Sunday after Pentecost, our theme powerfully reminds us that God never abandons His people, even when they wander away. Through the words of the prophet Hosea, we hear God’s heart: “When Israel was a child, I loved him… How can I give you up, Ephraim?” (Hosea 11:1,8). Our heavenly Father’s love is deeper than human failure; His mercy calls us back when we have gone astray.
The Gospel from Luke 15 paints a beautiful picture of this truth — the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to find the one lost sheep, and heaven rejoices over one sinner who repents. God does not simply tolerate our return; He welcomes us with joy and restores us fully.
This Sunday also invites us to live out the same grace. In his letter to Philemon, Paul urges forgiveness and reconciliation, reminding us that God’s love transforms broken relationships.
May we draw near to the Lord with repentant hearts, trust His unfailing love, and extend that same grace to others around us.
In Christ’s service,
Rev. Anthony Amair
Presbyter-in-Charge
St Andrew’s Church