June 1, 2017 - THE FIRSTFRUITS

Day 152 - 2 Chronicles 4-6 & John 12:20-50

And Jesus answered them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:23-24 ESV)

“Verse 24 emphasizes the necessity of Jesus’ death as the way to glorification and the blessing of many disciples. According to the time reckoning in John, Jesus rose from the dead on the 16th of  Nisan, the day barley firstfruits were offered in the temple.” (Concordia Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 1806).

St. Paul connected Jesus’ resurrection to firstfruits this way: “But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Corinthians 15:20 ESV)

What comfort we have in the fact that Jesus is the seed that died and bore eternal fruit on Easter. Now, because Jesus lives, you, too, will live.  

Lord Jesus, thank you for dying and rising for me. May I always remember to find comfort in the fact that You are the firstfruits of all who die in the faith.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 31, 2017 - THE HOPE OF THE WORLD

Day 151 - 2 Chronicles 1-3 & John 12:1-19

“Look, the world has gone after him.” (John 12:19 ESV)

The crowds have just followed Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, prompting the Pharisees to complain that the world had gone after Jesus. And it was true. Some followed because they were convinced He was the Messiah, the Savior of their souls. Others followed the one they hoped He would free them from the tyranny of Rome. And still others followed the great miracle worker. 

Sad to say, the same is true today. Not all of the world is going after Jesus. Millions upon millions do not believe that He is the Savior of the world. Tragically, not all who claim to follow Him see Him as their only hope and their only Savior from sin.

Are you following the Savior of your soul? Is Jesus your only hope for eternity? My prayer for you is that you are “going after” Jesus. May you be able to sing and pray this stanza with your whole heart!

Beautiful Savior, King of creation, 
Son of God and Son of Man!
Truly I'd love thee, Truly I'd serve thee, 
Light of my soul, my joy, my crown. (LSB 537)

Lord Jesus, even though the entire world is not following You, I want to. Please keep my faith in You strong so that I can share You with those who are not following You yet. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 30, 2017 - FATHERLY ADVICE

Day 150 - 1 Chronicles 28-29 & John 11:47-57

“And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever. Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong and do it.” (1 Chronicles 28:9-10 ESV)

The picture looks like Theodore Cleaver (A.K.A. the Beaver) is getting a little fatherly advice from Ward Cleaver, his dad.

In our reading highlight for today, Solomon is getting fatherly advice from his dad, King David. And what advice it is!

● Know the God of your father 
● serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, 
● seek him and you will find Him
● Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; 
● be strong and do it.

Your heavenly Father has the same advice for you, with one modification. Of course you are not building a temple for the Lord.

● Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to...

May the Lord bless and guide you as you obediently seek His plan for your life.

Heavenly Father, please equip and motivate me to live the life that You have planned for me. Thank You for providing the motivation and example for a life of service that You have revealed to me in the life of Jesus, my Savior, in whose precious name I pray. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 29, 2017 - REMEMBER

Day 149 - 1 Chronicles 26-27 & John 11:18-46

"This day shall be for you a memorial day, and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations…” (Exodus 12:14 ESV)

This verse, from the mouth of God Himself, commanded Moses and the Children of Israel to remember the Passover. It was important to remember how the blood of perfect lambs painted over the doorways to their homes caused death to pass over them. This all pointed to Jesus, the Lamb of God who would shed His blood for the salvation of all who believe. 

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13 ESV)

We remember that Jesus died for us so that death will pass over us on our last day, and we will begin eternity in heaven with Him.

On this Memorial Day, we remember the members of our nation’s military who gave the greatest sacrifice by shedding their blood for our freedom. May the Lord grant their families His peace and comfort. And may we never forget their sacrifice!

God bless America, land that I love.
Stand beside her and guide her 
Thru the night with the light from above.
From the mountains to the prairies 
To the oceans white with foam,
God bless America, my home sweet home.
God bless America, my home sweet home. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 28, 2017 - ASLEEP IN JESUS

Day 148 - 1 Chronicles 23-25 & John 11:1-17

After saying these things, he said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” The disciples said to him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.” Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he meant taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus has died, and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” (John 11:11-15 ESV)

Early in my ministry, my wife, Barb, would often sing for funerals. One of the hymns often times chosen by families was Asleep In Jesus, Blessed Sleep. The hymn well parallels the account of the death and resurrection of Lazarus.

“Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” 

Jesus is setting up the scene for his disciples benefit. His goal is to strengthen their faith in His power over death. Soon they would see that power as He calls Lazarus from the tomb. For Lazarus, it was a brief and undisturbed repose unbroken by the last of foes. Of course, after his first resurrection, he would die again. But once again, his death is only temporary.

This account should give you comfort, for your death will be only temporary too. Jesus promises to raise you to eternal life with Him on the last day.

Asleep in Jesus!  Oh, for me
May such a blissful refuge be!
Securely shall my ashes lie
And wait the summons from on high.
(Asleep in Jesus! Blessed Sleep, The Lutheran Hymnal, CPH, 1941, #587)

Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching me not to fear death because You have it under Your complete control. Remind me of Your promise to raise me to eternal life. And then use me to tell others so they, too, do not have to be afraid.  Amen.

“See” you at the Communion table this morning!

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 27, 2017 - THE BIGGER THEY ARE...

Day 147 - 1 Chronicles 20-22 & John 10:22-42

And there was again war at Gath, where there was a man of great stature, who had six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot, twenty-four in number, and he also was descended from the giants. And when he taunted Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimea, David's brother, struck him down. These were descended from the giants in Gath, and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants. (1 Chronicles 20:6-8 ESV)

In the Disney movie, Monsters Inc., a big scary monster named Sully falls hard for Boo.  The story line has him give up he scary ways and turn to making little ones, like Boo, laugh instead. It’s a cute story.

The story line of our text is not cute. It’s encouraging. Just like when David was a shepherd boy, his nephew, Jonathan, comes face to face with a giant. In spite of his size and his extra digits, the giant and his comrades falls hard at the hands of David and his servants.

Are you facing any 24 digit-giants in your life? There are many reminders in Scripture of God’s ability to defeat all that causes us fear. My favorite is this:

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28 KJV)

This promise means that, in Christ, the giant challenges in your life have all been defeated!

Lord Jesus, thank You for defeating the giants in my life... sin, death and the devil. Please help me to remember that You are with me always, and that because of my baptism, I need not be afraid. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 26, 2017 - TO WHOM ARE YOU LISTENING?

Day 146 - 1 Chronicles 17-19 & John 10:1-21

“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” (John 10:1-5 ESV)

Jesus tells us that there are two voices, the thief and the shepherd. The sheep can either listen to the thief or to the shepherd.

To whom are you listening? Jesus did not come to steel, kill and destroy. And yet foolish sheep (sinners) turn their ears to the thieves and robbers of this wold, instead of  Jesus, their Good Shepherd.

To whom are you listening? It is wise to listen to Jesus. He is the only One who has given His life as a ransom for yours! He is the only One who not only knows your name, but knows exactly what you need for this world and the next.

The King of Love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am His
And He is mine forever.   
               (Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, # 709, stanza 1)

Dear Jesus, my Good Shepherd, thank for calling me by name and for moving me to listen to You. Please use me to share Your voice with others, so that they may also know the joy of being Yours forever. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 25, 2017 - THANK THE LORD AND SING HIS PRAISE

Day 145 - 1 Chronicles 14-16 & John 9:24-41

Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name;
    make known his deeds among the peoples!
Sing to him, sing praises to him;
    tell of all his wondrous works!
Glory in his holy name;
    let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! (1 Chronicles 16:8-10 ESV)

“David, the new king, acts as a priest by blessing and ministering to the congregation of Israel. God has consecrated you as a priest in His kingdom to bless, thank and praise God before the nations. He sustains you in this precious service with His very body and blood for the forgiveness of all of your sins.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 652)

Thank the Lord and sing His praise; 
tell ev'ryone what He has done.
Let all who seek the Lord rejoice 
and proudly bear His name.  
He recalls His promises 
and leads His people forth in joy 
with shouts of thanksgiving.  
Alleluia, alleluia.   
(Post Communion Canticle, Divine Service One, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006)

Thank you, Lord, for all that You have done for me. Please lead me through the rest of my life with the joy that comes from sins forgiven, Your presence with me each day, and Your promise of heaven. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Life Walk 2017

Please click on this link to learn about our 2017 Life Walk in support of A Place of Refuge:

https://www.razoo.com/story/Jyzaxf

May 24, 2017 - THERE IS STILL TIME

Day 144 - 1 Chronicles 11-13 & John 9:1-23

“We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work.” (John 9:4 ESV)

Jesus had just healed a man born blind. He explained that the man’s blindness was intended to display God’s works. The Lord then goes on to share some very motivational thoughts for us today.

● Time is running out.
● Night is coming when our work for God will be completed.
● Until then, we have the privilege of living for Him.

How faithful was you witness for Christ yesterday? Did you seek out opportunities to share Him in some way with others? Many of us use a special response to “how are you today?” Answering, “blessed by the Lord,” can open doors to share more about the blessings that are ours in Christ.

“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
    for his steadfast love endures forever!
 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,
    whom he has redeemed from trouble.” (Psalm 107:1-2 ESV)

Thank You, merciful Father, for my Baptism and the precious gift of faith You have bestowed on me. Help me to live the rest of my life for You by sharing You with my loved ones and with all others whom You may send my way. In Jesus’s saving name.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 23, 2014 - I AM

Day 143 - 1 Chronicles 8-10 & John 8:37-59

Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” (John 8:58 ESV)

Jesus was letting His hearers know that He is God, and they knew it. “I am.” That is how God identified Himself to Moses. And that is how Jesus identifies Himself to us.

“I am the bread of life.” (John 6:35 ESV)

“I am the light of the world” (John 8:12 ESV)

“I am the door.”  (John 10:9 ESV)

“I am the good shepherd.” (John 10:11 ESV)

“I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:26 ESV)

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6 ESV)

“I am the true vine.” (John 15:1 ESV)

And because Jesus has redeemed us from sin, death and the devil, we get to use the words “I am” as well.

     I am Jesus little lamb, 
     Ever glad at heart I am;
     For my Shepherd gently guides me,
     Knows my need and well provides me,
     Loves me every day the same,
     Even calls me by my name.
     (Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #740)

We praise You, almighty God, for putting on flesh and dwelling among us. We thank You, Lord Jesus, for paying for our sins with Your holy, precious blood and with Your innocent suffering and death.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 22, 2017 - TRUE DISCIPLES

Day 142 - 1 Chronicles 6-7 & John 8:21-36

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32 ESV)

Jesus came to this earth to free sinners like you and me from the eternal consequences of our sin and from the power of the devil.

This means everything to us for the devil wants to take us captive with his fake promises. Wealth, power, prestige, even health.  None of these can even come close to freeing us.

However, the message of Christ’s cross, His death and resurrection offer eternal freedom to all who believe. So...

● Abide in His Word ... read, mark, learn and inwardly digest the Word of God.
● Know (trust in) His truth.
● Celebrate your freedom in Christ! 

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for freeing me from my enemies of sin, death and the devil. Please give me the desire to remain in Your Word. In Your saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 21, 2017 - GO AND SIN NO MORE

Day 141 - 1 Chronicles 3-5 & John 8:1-20

The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” (John 8:1-11 ESV)

“Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” While our attention is often drawn to this part of the scene, it is the words Jesus speaks to the woman that I wish to focus on today.

And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” 

This is the message we hear in worship this morning as our sins are forgiven. He calls us to also “go, and from now on sin no more.” Yes, the Lord is calling us to... “bear fruits in keeping with repentance.” (Luke 3:8 ESV)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for forgiving my sins. Please grant me the wisdom and the strength to bear the fruit of repentance You require. Amen.

"See" you at the Communion table this morning!

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 20, 2017 - ARE YOU LISTENING TO JESUS?

Day 140 - 1 Chronicles 1-2 & John 7:32-53

The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring him?” The officers answered, “No one ever spoke like this man!” The Pharisees answered them, “Have you also been deceived?” (John 7:45-47 ESV)

 “No one ever spoke like this man!”  Those sent to arrest Jesus return empty-handed and confused. They had never heard anyone like Jesus before. They didn’t understand what He meant by:

“I will be with you a little longer, and then I am going to him who sent me. You will seek me and you will not find me. Where I am you cannot come.” (John 7:33-34 ESV)

“If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.” (John 7:37b ESV)

There was a division among them. Some thought He was a prophet, others thought He was the Messiah. Some wanted to arrest Him, but it was not His time yet.

“No one ever spoke like this man!” (John 7:46 ESV) Can you, too, make this statement? I hope and pray that there is no confusion on your part, for Jesus is the only one who has said:

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 ESV)

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11 ESV)

“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25 ESV)

These promises from Jesus were spoken to you. ARE YOU LISTENING?

Dearest Lord Jesus, thank You for speaking these life-giving words for me. May the Holy Spirit keep my ears open to all that You have to say for this life and the next. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 19, 2017 - BOLD ACTION

Day 139 2 Kings 23-25 & John 7:1-31

And the king stood by the pillar and made a covenant before the Lord, to walk after the Lord and to keep his commandments and his testimonies and his statutes with all his heart and all his soul, to perform the words of this covenant that were written in this book. And all the people joined in the covenant. (2 Kings 23:3 ESV)

When Josiah heard the words of the long-lost Book of the Law discovered in the house of the Lord, he initiated reforms that removed false worship. “Such bold action no doubt offended some of his subjects. Today, the Lord may call you to take bold action. Set your heart to serve the Lord and pray for His help to make changes peaceably.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 622)

The greatest change the Lord wants in your life and mine is a humble and contrite heart, the proof of which is a life lived in humble service to almighty God.

Heavenly Father, please make me faithful like Josiah. To that end, remind me of Your mercy revealed in Christ’s sacrificial death and glorious resurrection by which You have freed me from my sin. May I live my life in daily gratitude and thanksgiving for all that You have done and continually do for me. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 18, 2017 - SET YOUR HOUSE IN ORDER

Day 138 - 2 Kings 20-22 & John 6:45-71

In those days Hezekiah became sick and was at the point of death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came to him and said to him, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die; you shall not recover.’” Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, saying, “Now, O Lord, please remember how I have walked before you in faithfulness and with a whole heart, and have done what is good in your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. And before Isaiah had gone out of the middle court, the word of the Lord came to him: “Turn back, and say to Hezekiah the leader of my people, Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father: I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you...,  and I will add fifteen years to your life...” (2 Kings 20:1-6 ESV)

“Set your house in order.” Those words of warning brought Hezekiah to his knees in prayer. The answer was fifteen more years during which to set his house in order.

“Set your house in order.” Wise words for us too. Yes, make sure you have a will.  Purchase cemetery plots. Plan your funeral. Pick out Scripture lessons and hymns. But, above all, set your spiritual house in order.

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life...  Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” (John 6:47&54 ESV)

Every Sunday we have the privilege of gathering in our churches to make sure that our spiritual houses are set in order.

Heavenly Father, thank You for making it possible for my spiritual house to be in order by trusting in Your Son’s death as payment for my sins. Please bless me with regular attendance at the Communion table and with a deep and abiding faith.  In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 17, 2017 - FAMILY BLESSINGS

Day 137 - 2 Kings 18-19 & John 6:22-44

Then the Ziphites went up to Saul at Gibeah, saying, “Is not David hiding among us in the strongholds at Horesh, on the hill of Hachilah, which is south of Jeshimon? Now come down, O king, according to all your heart's desire to come down, and our part shall be to surrender him into the king's hand.” And Saul said, “May you be blessed by the Lord, for you have had compassion on me.”  (1 Samuel 22:19-21 ESV)

In his misguided pursuit of David, King Saul is aided by Ziphites. He responds to their kindness by exclaiming: “May you be blessed by the Lord...”

“Blessed by the Lord” is my preferred way to answer someone who asks “how are you today?” “Blessed by the Lord” also describes what happened to my family 39 years ago today. Our little family became complete on May 17, 1978, when the Lord blessed us with our son, Adam. He and his sister, Heidi, and now their spouses and children, are truly precious blessing from the Lord. 

“Blessed by the Lord,” aptly describes all who believe in Christ and are part of God’s family, the Church. My prayer for you and your loved ones is that you are "blessed by the Lord" with membership in His family!

As a member of God’s family, may you be blessed by he Lord with the comfort and peace that comes from sins forgiven and heaven guaranteed. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 16, 2017 - I CAN DO NOTHING ON MY OWN

Day 136 - 2 Kings 15-17 & John 6:1-21

“I can do nothing on my own.” (John 5:30 ESV)

Jesus is teaching us a crucial life lesson here. Even though He is the Son of God, God Himself in the flesh, still He relied on His heavenly Father. He admitted that He could do nothing on His, nothing without the will of the Father.

Since even Jesus could do nothing on His own, what makes us think that we can? We self-centered human beings are so good at acting as if we can make it on our own. James gives us his advice - “You ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’” (James 4:15)

I am a sinner. You are a sinner. We need help. We all need Jesus...

“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 32 I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” - Jesus (Luke 5:31-32)

Heavenly Father, help me to realize how true it is that I can do nothing without You. Help me to listen to Jesus’ call to repentance and forgiveness. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 15, 2017 - NOTHING ON MY OWN

Day 135 - 2 Kings 12-14 & John 5:25-47

30 “I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me... 36b For the works that the Father has given me to accomplish, the very works that I am doing, bear witness about me that the Father has sent me.” (John 5:30&36b ESV)

Jesus is teaching us that He is all about seeking the will of His heavenly Father - “him who sent me.” For Jesus, it was all about doing works that fulfill God the Father’s plan for His life and for ours. 

Jesus said: “I can do nothing on my own.” This was brought home to me in yesterday’s worship service when I found myself confused and not able to proclaim the Word as clearly and emphatically as I would have liked. So, after tests that resulted in good news on Sunday, I am waiting to see what the results of Monday's tests will be.

We would all like to have everything go perfectly well every day. But the Lord does not guarantee that. David records what the Lord does guarantee: “My times are in His hands.” (Psalm 31:15). 

Since Jesus died for our sins and therefore guarantees forgiveness and heaven to all and any who repent and believe, He certainly can lead us through any of the challenges that life may throw our way.

So let’s begin this new day with this prayer of faith and submission to the God who loves us with an unending and peace-instilling love.

I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen. (Luther’s Morning Prayer)

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 14, 2017 - MOTHER’S PRAYER

Day 134 - 2 Kings 9-11 & John 5:1-24

"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life." (John 5:24a ESV)

These words of Jesus aptly describe the greatest prayer a Christian mother can have for her child/children. I share this from first-hand experience. Of all the things my dear mother taught and still teaches me, the most important has been the supreme importance of faith in our Savior, a treasure she has fervently prayed for on my behalf my entire life.  Thanks, Mom!

As you think of your mother, what is at the top of the list of things you thank her for? And come to think of it, what is at the top of the list of blessings you thank God for?

Oh, blest the parents who give heed
        Unto their children's foremost need
        And weary not of care or cost.
        May none to them and heav'n be lost!
(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, # 862 St. 3)

Dear heavenly Father, thank You for the prayers of my faithful Mother. Keep all of Your children in Your tender care today so that we may continue to believe! In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Thank God for your mother today.  “See” you at the Communion table this morning!

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 13, 2017 - CAN YOU SEE THEM?

Day 133 - 2 Kings 6-8 & John 4:31-54

When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see. So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. (2 Kings 6:15-17 ESV)

Elisha’s servant was terrified with the enemy forces poised to do them harm. Have you ever been there, facing evil foes right in the face? It can be really terrifying. But what is the reality for the child of God? Every morning, we ask the Lord to provide for us what He provided for Elisha and Israel.

Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. 

Luther wrote: “It is a great comfort for all Christians to learn from these and other passages of Holy Scripture that they are not forsaken in the cross which they encounter in various forms throughout their lives. For they have the dear angels with them as protectors and guards.” (Luther’s Works, American Addition, Lutheran Study Bible, CPH p. 589)

I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 12, 2017 - THE WATER OF LIFE

Day 132 - 2 Kings 4-5 & John 4:1-30

Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” 11 The woman said to him, “Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water?” ... Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water.” (John 4:10-15 ESV)

Water is basic need of life. The woman at the well was searching for H20. Jesus offered her something much more precious and necessary. The forgiveness of sins He purchased for us all, quenches our spiritual thirst. 

Lord Jesus, please quench this thirsting of my soul with the call to repentance and Your gift of saving faith. Thank You for being the water of life. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 11, 2017 - PASSING ON THE MANTLE

Day 131 - 2 Kings 1-3 & John 3:22-36

Then Elijah took his cloak and rolled it up and struck the water, and the water was parted to the one side and to the other, till the two of them could go over on dry ground.
When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.”  And Elisha said, “Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me.”... And as they still went on and talked, behold, chariots of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them. And Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha saw it and he cried, “My father, my father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!” And he saw him no more.
... Then he took the cloak of Elijah that had fallen from him and struck the water, saying, “Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?” And when he had struck the water, the water was parted to the one side and to the other, and Elisha went over. (2 Kings 2:8-14 ESV)

This section of Scripture draws our attention to what is happening to Elijah--chariots and horses of fire and a whirlwind trip to heaven. However, this morning, my thoughts are drawn to what the Holy Spirit is doing in Elijah’s life. The mantle, or cloak, of Elijah is being passed on to his successor, Elisha.

This is what happens when pastors are ordained. They are ready to begin serving. While there is no passing on of spiritual power, there is a sense of following in the steps of another. Three of the pastors present at my ordination had great influence on me, Pastor Harvey Wangerin and Professors Wangerin and Jenne. Pastors Sallach and Lewis also were influential in my years of preparation for the ministry. I thank the Lord for them and for the passing on of the mantle that took place!

God of the prophets, bless the prophet's sons;
Elijah's mantle o'er Elisha cast.
Each age its solemn task may claim but once;
Make each one nobler, stronger than the last.
(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #682, stanza 1)

Gracious heavenly Father, thank You for the office of the holy ministry. Please keep all pastors faithful to You and the people we are called to serve. Use all of us, professional church workers and lay members, in the joyful task of sharing the love of Jesus with our sin-darkened world. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 10, 2017 - YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN

Day 130 - 1 Kings 21-22 & John 3:1-21

Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:5-8 ESV)

“‘Water’ and ‘spirit’ belong together and point to Christian Baptism.”
Augustine wrote: “In spirit we are born by the water and sacrament.”
Large Catechism: “We take up Baptism, by which we are first received into the Christian Church.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 1782)

“You must be born again.” For most of us that happened when we were baptized as infants. God alone gives faith.  We cannot even cooperate in that event. Even the act of sincerely confessing our faith is something we cannot do on our own. 

“The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”  (1 Corinthians 2:14 ESV)
   
Baptized into Your name most holy,
O Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,
I claim a place, though weak and lowly,
Among Your saints, Your chosen host.
Buried with Christ and dead to sin,
Your Spirit now shall live within.

My loving Father, here You take me
To be henceforth Your child and heir.
My faithful Savior, here You make me
The fruit of all Your sorrows share.
O Holy Spirit, comfort me
When threat'ning clouds around I see.
(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #590, stanzas 1-2)

So, if a well-meaning Christian of a “different stripe” asks you if you were born again, tell him, “Of course, on the day of my Baptism, when I was a baby.” And then, when the devil tries to make you doubt your salvation, remember that your Baptism means that you are God’s child today, tomorrow and forever.

Gracious heavenly Father, thank You for the comfort of my Baptism. Thank You for granting me saving faith through water and Your Word. Help me to always remember that You came into my life that day and made me Your own. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 9, 2017 - THE STILL SMALL VOICE

Day 129 - 1 Kings 19-20 & John 2

And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” (1 Kings 19:11-13 ESV)

“Elijah found no comfort and no assurance in God’s power manifested in nature through the wind. Rather, when God’s Word came to instruct him in a quiet voice, then the prophet found truth and strength. What the Lord whispers is a mystery. Luther: ‘The Law is a hammer that crushes rocks, a fire, a wind, and a great and mighty earthquake that overturns mountains. When Elijah cold not bear the terrors of the Law that were signified in these events, he wrapped his head in his mantel, and after the storm was over, there came a still small voice, in which the Lord was present. But the storm and the earthquake had to come first, before the Lord Himself followed in the still small voice.’” (The Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 571)

So, dear reader, when the storms of life engulf you, get ready to listen for the still small voice of God shortly after the storm is stilled. In fact, this is precisely why you attend church on a weekly basis. You come in from the tumult of the previous week and are met with the Word and the meal that God has prepared just for you.

God Himself is present:
Let us now adore Him
And with awe appear before Him.
God is in His temple;
All within keep silence;
Humbly kneel in deepest rev'rence.
He alone
On His throne
Is our God and Savior;
Praise His Name forever!
(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #907, stanza 1)

Almighty God, thank You for coming to me in Your still small voice in weekly worship. Help me to listen to and heed Your guiding and saving voice.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf