Day 32 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 46:1-13; Psalm 30; John 12:44-50)
EVEN THOUGH MY HAIR IS WHITE...
Even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save. (Isaiah 46:4 ESV)
The beloved song, “Jesus Loves Me,“ has a version that ties into our verse for today in a most engaging manner.
Jesus loves me, this I know,
Though my hair is white as snow.
Though my sight is growing dim,
Still He bids me trust in Him.
(CHORUS)
YES, JESUS LOVES ME
YES, JESUS LOVES ME
YES, JESUS LOVES ME
THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO
Though my steps are oh, so slow,
With my hand in His I'll go
On through life, let come what may,
He'll be there to lead the way. (CHORUS)
Though I am no longer young,
I have much which He's begun.
Let me serve Christ with a smile,
Go with others the extra mile. (CHORUS)
When the nights are dark and long,
In my heart He puts a song.
Telling me in words so clear,
"Have no fear, for I am near." (CHORUS)
When my work on earth is done,
And life's victories have been won.
He will take me home above,
Then I'll understand His love. (CHORUS)
I love Jesus, does He know?
Have I ever told Him so?
Jesus loves to hear me say,
That I love Him every day. (CHORUS)
Lord Jesus, thank You for being with me as I age. Please grant me Your peace and joy as I remember “yes Jesus loves,” which means THE BEST IS YET TO COME. Amen.
"See" you in church tomorrow!
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 31 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 45:14-25; Psalm 29; John 12:27-43)
THE HOPE OF THE WORLD
“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 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.
("Beautiful Savior," Lutheran Service Book #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
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 30 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 45:1-13; Psalm 28; John 12:12-26)
THE FIRSTFRUITS
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.
God sent His Son, they called Him Jesus;
He came to love, heal, and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon;
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives.
Because He lives I can face tomorrow;
Because He lives all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just because He lives.
(“Because He Lives,” The Other Son Book 11, vs 1)
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
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 29 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 44:1-28; Psalm 27; John 12:1-11)
WHOM SHALL I FEAR?
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1 ESV)
You check the latest news and discover that, once again, it is not good. There is so much going on that could make us fearful about the future. Where will terrorists strike next time? What will the doctor say? Will I loose my job of keep it?
King David was not a stranger to fearful times. Yet he knew that the only answer for security and peace is the Lord. God shines the light of His love and His gift of salvation into the lives of His people. The Lord is our stronghold, our defense, and the One who drives all fear away.
Have no fear, little flock;
Have no fear little flock,
For the Father has chosen
To give you the Kingdom;
Have no fear, little flock!
Have good cheer, little flock;
Have good cheer, little flock,
For the Father will keep you
In His love forever;
Have good cheer, little flock!
Praise the Lord high above;
Praise the Lord high above,
For He stoops down to heal you,
Uplift and restore you;
Praise the Lord high above!
Thankful hearts raise to God;
Thankful hearts raise to God.
For He stays close beside you,
In all things works with you;
Thankful hearts raise to God!
(“Have No Fear, Little Flock,” Lutheran Service Book #735 )
Lord, thank You for showing us the way of salvation in Jesus, my Savior. While world and national events may be fearful, assure me of Your presence and Your peace. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 28 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 43:1-28; Psalm 26; John 11:45-57)
FEAR NOT, YOU ARE BAPTIZED
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” (Isaiah 43:1b ESV)
“Fear not.” What a comforting word of encouragement from God the Creator! He who made it all, and knows it all, tells you not to be afraid.
Look at the reason He tells you not to fear: “For I have redeemed you.” Christ the Redeemer has bought you back from sin, death and the devil.
When did He do this? It was on the day He “called you by name,” the day of your Baptism, when the Holy Spirit gave you faith and made you a child of God.
Now, because God the Creator, Christ the Redeemer, and the Giver of faith (the Holy Spirit) have made this clear declaration, you can take comfort in His promise that “you are mine.”
Heavenly Father, thank You for my Baptism and for the fact that You have redeemed me and made me Your own. Please keep me close to You forever. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 27 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 42:10-25; Psalm 25; John 11:28-44)
LORD - TEACH, GUIDE AND BLESS
“Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long.” (Psalm 25:4-5 ESV)
“David prays, ‘For You I wait all the day long.’ God promises to answer prayer, but we may be impatient or tempted to question His answers. Even when our faithfulness fails, God is faithful. He hears our prayers and truly acts for our good. In faith, we patiently wait for Him.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 867)
I don’t know about you, but I have a hard time being patient. Impatience led to many a model that I was putting together as a boy being done improperly. The proof of my lack of patience were the left over pieces intended to be included in the car, plane or ship I has just glued together.
David’s request is that the Lord would teach him His ways, emphasizing the Lord’s truth. This really does make sense since God wants only His best for us. David indicated that he knew this truth when he wrote: “for you are the God of my salvation.” This is the ultimate reason that we can patiently wait for the Lord to make His plans for life on this earth known to us.
Since the Lord has taken care of our salvation by means of Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection, we can certainly trust Him to teach us, guide us and bless us today!
Click for Lead Me, Guide Me video: https://search.aol.com/aol/video;_ylt=A2KLfS1TVC5eb6EAF7RpCWVH;_ylu=X3oDMTB0N2Noc21lBGNvbG8DYmYxBHBvcwMxBHZ0aWQDBHNlYwNwaXZz?q=lead+me%2C+GUIDE+ME+lsb&s_it=searchtabs&v_t=loki-tb-sb#id=8&vid=dc131902d5c5de5fb260afb56aee6f09&action=view
God of my salvation, open my eyes to Your path and Your truth. Please grant me the patience to wait for You and the faith to believe Your promises as you teach me, guide me and bless me today. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 26 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 42:1-9; Psalm 24; John 11:1-27)
ASLEEP IN JESUS
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
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 25 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 41:14-29; Psalm 23; John 10:22-42)
GOD HAS ANSWERED
1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest... 16 For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet— 17 I can count all my bones— they stare and gloat over me; 18 they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. 19 But you, O Lord, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid... 22 I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you. (Psalm 22:1-22 ESV)
“Facing great opposition, the psalmist initially feels that God has forsaken him and is ignoring his prayers. After remembering God’s faithfulness and deliverance, he believes God will deliver him, and commits himself to telling that message to others. We, too, may feel alone and forsaken by God. Today we deserve to be forsaken by God because of our sinfulness. But, as the psalmist foretells, God Himself came to be our Redeemer. While many human beings have shared these feelings, the psalm finds its greatest fulfillment in Jesus Christ... He was truly forsaken by His Father and died alone so that we could be reconciled to our God. We are never alone because our crucified, resurrected Savior is with us.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 865)
Heavenly Father, thank You for answering my prayer for deliverance by sending Jesus to experience the forsakenness of hell in my stead. Help me to remember this at those times when I feel all alone. Grant me the comfort of knowing that You will never leave me nor forsake me . Amen.
“See” you in church tomorrow!
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 24 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 41:1-13; Psalm 22; John 10:1-21)
TO WHOM ARE YOU LISTENING?
“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 and two choices, the thief and the shepherd. The sheep have a choice, to listen to the thief or to listen to the shepherd.
To whom are you listening? Jesus did not come to steel, kill and destroy. And yet the way foolish sheep (sinners) turn their ears to the thief and robbers of this wold, instead of Jesus, the 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 you name, but knows exactly what you need the most, forgiveness for all of your sins.
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, the 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 are not deceived by Satan, that thief, robber and stranger. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 23 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 40:24-31; Psalm 21; John 9:24-41)
PRAYING FOR OTHERS
“Will you indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked?” (Genesis 18:23)
Abraham’s fervent prayer for Sodom shows his great concern for others, while his manner of prayer shows his great respect for God.
23 Then Abraham drew near and said, “Will you indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? 24 Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city. Will you then sweep away the place and not spare it for the fifty righteous who are in it? 25 Far be it from you to do such a thing, to put the righteous to death with the wicked, so that the righteous fare as the wicked! Far be that from you! Shall not the Judge of all the earth do what is just?” 26 And the Lord said, “If I find at Sodom fifty righteous in the city, I will spare the whole place for their sake.”
Abraham continues his prayerful negotiation until he gets down to God agreeing to spare Sodom from destruction if 10 believers can be found in the city.
What we learn today is the importance of praying for others, even unbelievers. Abraham’s concern was for the city of Sodom, the object of God’s impending destruction because “their sin was very grave.” (v 17)
Do you pray for others?
Do you pray for those who are different than you?
Do you pray for those who are giving you are a hard time?
Listen to Jesus: “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
So, pray....
Lord, hear my prayer,
O Lord, hear my prayer;
When I call answer me.
O Lord, hear my prayer,
O Lord, hear my prayer;
Come and listen to me.
(O Lord, Hear My Prayer, Lutheran Service Book, CPH #780)
O Lord, hear my prayer for all who are not walking with You. As You have made me Your child by the power of the Holy Spirit, so reach others by the same means of grace. Yes, please have mercy on all of us poor miserable sinners. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 22 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 40:9-23; Psalm 20; John 9:1-23)
THERE IS STILL TIME
“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
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yea
+y), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 21 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 39:1-40:8; Psalm 19; John 8:48-59)
I AM
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
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 20 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 38:1-21; Psalm 18:31-50; John 8:31-47)
THINGS OF GOD
From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.” But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” (Matthew 16:21-23 ESV)
Jesus had just shared God the Father’s plan of salvation with Peter, and Peter rejected it. “Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.” Of course, he is not alone, multitudes have also rejected Jesus.
Peter’s blessing was that Jesus would not let him go. He quite powerfully and eloquently encouraged Peter to set his mind "on the things of God."
How are you doing in this area? God’s plan to save you is focused Jesus going to Jerusalem where He would suffer and die in payment for your sins. But on the third day He would rise again, offering forgiveness of sins and eternal life to you and all who, through saving faith, set their minds on these things of God.
Lord Jesus, please keep my mind focused on You and the things of God so that I may continue to be forgiven and heaven-bound. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 19 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 37:30-38; Psalm 18:1-30; John 8:12-30)
JESUS IS THE ONE
“Unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.” (John 8:24 ESV)
Jesus is the One. He is the Savior promised long ago. He is the Messiah, the Christ, the Chosen One.
There have been many imitators... many who claim to be the answer to mankind’s need for divine help.
At a conference some years ago, we pastors were reminded that our task is not to talk Jesus. Instead, we are to preach Jesus. And that is what John 8:24 does. The message Jesus has for you is simply this:
● Repent and believe I died in payment for all of your sins. Therefore,
● Your sins are forgiven.
● You will not die in your sins.
● Heaven is your eternal inheritance.
● Until then, go, you are free to soar and live for Jesus.
Don’t fall for any imitators. Jesus is your only way to heaven!
Crown Him the Lord of Life,
Who triumphed o'er the grave
And rose victorious in the strife
For those He came to save.
His glories now we sing
Who died and rose on high,
Who died eternal life to bring
And lives that death may die.
(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #525, 4)
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being the One who died and rose for me. Bless my efforts to share You with others who need You just as desperately I do. Amen.
“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 17 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 37:14-29; Psalm 17; John 8:1-11)
HAUGHTY OR HUMBLE?
“For you save a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down.” (Psalm 18:27 ESV)
Humility is not the route many people want to follow on the road of life. Yet the Psalmist, and others, have mapped out humility as the way to go.
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” (James 4:10 ESV)
“You save a humble people, but your eyes are on the haughty to bring them down.” (2 Samuel 22:28 ESV)
“if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV)
“The Lord lifts up the humble; he casts the wicked to the ground.” (Psalm 147:6 ESV)
Jesus: “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4 ESV)
Jesus: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12 ESV)
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,” (1 Peter 5:6 ESV)
Heavenly Father, remind me daily of Your graciousness to me in forgiving my sins for Jesus’ sake. May my response be a life of humble service to others in You name. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 17 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 37:1-13; Psalm 16; John 7:37-52)
ARE YOU LISTENING TO JESUS?
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.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 16 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 36:1-22; Psalm 15; John 7:25-36)
PERFECT PEACE
“On this mountain the Lord of hosts will... swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces.” (Isaiah 25:6-8)“You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord is an everlasting rock.” (Isaiah 26:3-4)
Knowing God gives us perfect peace - peace when we contemplate what is waiting for the believer at life’s end, and peace right now as we trust in Him no matter what our circumstances are!
In commenting on Is. 26:3, Martin Luther wrote: “This is the origin of peace, namely, hope and faith, as Paul says in Romans 5:1: ‘Since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God.’” (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 1129)
May the Lord bless you with His peace as you trust in the Prince of Peace who paid for all of your peace-robbing mistakes (sins) on the cross of Calvary!
Heavenly Father, thank You for granting me the peace that comes from the forgiveness of my sins and Your promise of life everlasting. Yes, thank You for granting me faith in Jesus, my source of perfect peace. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
