For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

 “Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?35It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out.

“Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.”

But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ ”

Lord God my Father,

Help me to find my place in your kingdom and do your work as you desire. Make me fruitful and carry your word well so it is shared. Open my heart so I know you and share you with others and allow them to hear. Help me find the lost sheep so we can celebrate.

In Jesus name I pray,

Amen