A sermon for Quasimodo Geniti (the Octave of Easter), by Fr. Josh Leigeber.
This Sunday’s homily for Quasimodo Geniti centered on the Christian life as one of new birth and continual dependence on Christ. Even as we grow and mature in the faith, we never outgrow being “like newborn infants” (as the Introit reminds us), but remain wholly dependent on God’s care, nourished by the “sincere milk of the Word.”
Drawing on the Gospel lesson from John 20, the sermon highlighted how faith itself is not self-generated but given by Christ, who comes to His fearful disciples and creates faith through His Word. In the same way, the risen Lord continues to come to His Church today—through the ministry He instituted—to deliver forgiveness, life, and salvation by means of His Word and Sacraments.
Especially in light of the baptisms at the Easter Vigil, we were reminded that the Christian life is never one of self-sufficiency, but always one of receiving. As Luther said, “We are beggars. This is true.” Christ continually gathers His people in the Divine Service to feed, forgive, and sustain them.
And so the call remains: return again and again to where Christ gives His gifts, and “like newborn infants, desire the pure milk of the Word.” Alleluia.
All Saints Lutheran Church and School 