God's Loving Presence in a Hurting World

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost

July 26, 2026

Musings from the Pastor's Desk

“The Price Is Right: What Is the Kingdom Worth?”

If you have ever watched The Price Is Right, you know the challenge. A contestant hears their name called and is invited from the audience with the words, “Come on down!” The goal of the game is to guess the price of the product. The contestant closest to the actual price moves on-stage to play more price games and win valuable prizes.

In Matthew 13:31–33, 44–52, Jesus speaks of something of great value to us: the kingdom of God. How much is it worth, and what would you pay for it?

Jesus tells of someone who discovers a treasure hidden in a field. Filled with joy, he sells everything he has to buy the field. Then Jesus describes a merchant searching for fine pearls who finds one pearl of extraordinary value. He also sells everything he has to possess it.

Notice that neither goes away sorrowful. The person who finds the treasure sells everything with joy. They have discovered something so valuable that everything else suddenly looks different. But here is where our Lutheran understanding of grace is important. We cannot buy the kingdom of God. God's love, forgiveness, and salvation are not prizes awarded to the highest bidder. They are gifts of grace.

In fact, the great price has already been paid for us by Jesus himself. At the cross, Jesus gives himself for us. We belong to Christ, as Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 6:20, because we were “bought with a price.” The treasure of God's kingdom comes to us not because we have earned it, but because God, in Christ, has given everything for us.

Perhaps the question is not, “What is the right price to enter the Kin-dom of God?” The better question is: “Having received this treasure freely, what is it worth to me?”

Is it worth letting go of resentment so forgiveness can grow? Is it worth surrendering some comfort to stand with someone who is suffering? Is it worth our time, generosity, courage, and willingness to work for justice and peace?

Jesus says the kingdom may begin as small as a mustard seed or as quietly as yeast hidden in flour. Yet once God's grace takes root in us, everything changes.

On The Price Is Right, the challenge is to determine what the prize is worth. Jesus has already shown us. The kingdom is priceless. The price has already been paid. Because Christ has given everything for us, we are set free to give ourselves joyfully for the sake of God's kingdom.

So, “Come on down” to Hope Lutheran Church for worship on Sunday at 10:30 AM, or join us on Facebook at HopeClinton.

Come experience the deal of your life!

Peace+

Pastor Eric

Conversation and Connection

With Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry:

A Special Leadership Circle Fireside Chat

When: Thursday, Aug. 6, 1PM

Where: Zoom meeting

You’re invited to the next Leadership Circle Fireside Chat!



On Thursday, Aug. 6, join us for a special opportunity to hear from Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry and learn more about his vision for our church. He is excited to join Leadership Circle members for this virtual event!

During this event, you will hear the presiding bishop talk about our shared mission and the deep connections that sustain and inspire ELCA members across the expressions of our church. We invite you to submit questions in advance when you register at the link below. We hope you can join us — we’re looking forward to connections and conversation!

Note: The registration page will close at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 4.

Sacred Ground

Registration is now open for Sacred Ground, a Zoom-based discussion series on race and faith; all are welcome to attend. Sacred Ground is a 12-session spiritual journey grounded in the example of Jesus Christ and the power of scripture, prayer, and God’s grace to help achieve racial equity. For more information see flyer posted in the Narthex.