Day 122 - (Today’s Bible readings:2 Chronicles 35:20-27; Psalm 111; Luke 18:31-43)
WHAT ARE THE ODDS?
And taking the twelve, he said to them, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. For he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. And after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.” (Luke 18:31-33 ESV)
“Everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished...”
One of the biggest problems Bible doubters have is the incredible odds against all of the Old Testament being fulfilled by one person. Yet, that is just what the account of the life of Christ reveals.
Peter Stoner, in Science Speaks (Chicago: Moody Press, 1963), determined the probability of one man fulfilling eight of the prophecies of the Old Testament for the Messiah to be 1 in 10 to the 17th power. Imagine taking 100,000,000,000,000,000 silver dollars and covering the state of Texas. That many coins would be two feet deep. Now mark one, stir the whole mass thoroughly, blindfold a person, and ask that person to pick the marked one in one try. Those are the exact same odds of anyone fulfilling eight of the Messianic prophecies by chance alone.
Peter Stoner then goes on to consider the possibility of any one person fulfilling 48 of the prophecies by chance. Here the odds jump to 1 in 10 to the 157th power (1 billion X 12). That number would look like this:
1 in 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000, 000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000.
What is even more amazing is the reason that Jesus endured this, “For he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. And after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.”
Jesus died and rose for sinners like you and me!
Thank You, my Lord Jesus, for fulfilling every single Old Testament prophecy so that I can be forgiven and look forward to eternity with You. Please use me to share Your amazing story with others. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 121 - (Today’s Bible readings:2 Chronicles 35:1-19; Psalm 110; Luke 18:15-30)
Let Children Come Jesus
15 Now they were bringing even infants to him that he might touch them. And when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them. 16 But Jesus called them to him, saying, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. 17 Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” (Luke 18:15-17 ESV)
Jesus is talking about all children. No matter how old we get, Jesus is telling us that we need to have the simple, trusting faith of a child.
Jesus loves the little children
All the children of the world
Red and yellow, black and white
They are precious in His sight
Jesus loves the little children of the world
(Author unknown)
What does Jesus do with “children” who trust Him with so completely? He takes them in His arms and blesses them now and forever.
Lord, thank You for calling me by name on the day of my Baptism. What a blessing it is to be one of Your children. Since You love all children of all ages, please use me to help others to know how precious they are to You. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 120 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 34:8-33; Psalm 109; Luke 18:1-14)
LORD, HAVE MERCY
He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:9-14 ESV)
The point of the parable is clear. God calls us to honestly admit our sinfulness and seek His mercy. While this is not the way we proud and self-centered “Pharisees” want to go through life, it is the only way to be saved. When we repent of our sins and seek God’s mercy, for the sake of Jesus, we are forgiven and restored.
There is no wiggle room here. Humble yourself, repent, and seek God’s mercy!
1. Today Your mercy calls us
To wash away our sin.
However great our trespass,
Whatever we have been,
However long from mercy
Our hearts have turned away,
Your precious blood can wash us
And make us clean today.
2. Today Your gate is open,
And all who enter in
Shall find a Father's welcome
And pardon for their sin.
The past shall be forgotten,
A present joy be giv'n,
A future grace be promised,
A glorious crown in heav'n.
(“Today Your Mercy Calls Us,” Lutheran Service Book #915 1&2)
God, be merciful to me, a sinner. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM STARTING TONIGHT
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 119 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 33:10-34:7; Psalm 108; Luke 17:20-37)
LOSERS KEEPERS
“Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it. ” (Luke 17:33 ESV)
“Finders keepers, losers weepers,” is the selfish response when someone finds something lost by someone else. For followers of Jesus, it is just the opposite. Those who try to find (preserve) their lives are losers, while those who lose their lives for Jesus, are winners.
The key is putting Jesus first by
● trusting Him,
● repenting of our sins, and
● serving Him as we help others.
When we live for ourselves and ignore God, we risk losing everything. When we live for God, we win everything.
Those who die without Christ, are eternal losers. Those who die trusting in Christ for forgiveness are eternal winners
Heavenly Father, thank You for making me a winner by giving me saving faith in Christ Jesus. Please use me today to share my victory with others. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Link to WEDNESDAY ONLINE BIBLE STUDY WEDNESDAYS 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/177003912
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 118 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 33:1-9; Psalm 107; Luke 17:1-19)
THANK THE LORD AND SING HIS PRAISE
"Let the redeemed of the Lord say so." (Psalm 107:2 ESV)
Why are you alive? What does the Lord expect of you? He has called those He has redeemed from sin, death and the devil to say so, to be His witnesses. Many sing about the Christian’s calling with these words:
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.
(Divine Service One, The Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006)
Lord Jesus, thank You for my salvation. May my life be filled with daily thanksgiving as I tell others of all that You have done. Please lead us forth in Your joy. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 117 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 32:20-33; Psalm 106:24-48; Luke 16:14-31)
GOD CAN CHANGE HIM?
But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. And falling to the ground he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting... For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus. And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.” And all who heard him were amazed and said, “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name?”(Acts 9:1-5, 19-21 ESV)
Do you know of a person whom you are sure will never become a follower of Jesus?
● Someone who may use His name, but never with faith and reverence?
● Someone who insists that there is no God?
● How about followers of false gods...Mormons...JWs...Muslims...Unitarians... etc.?
The conversion of St. Paul vividly teaches us that Jesus can change anyone. He changed Saul from a fire-breathing persecutor of Christians to one of the greatest Christian missionaries of all time.
Now, how about that person you were thinking about. Jesus can change him or her just as easily as He changed Saul. So, continue to pray. And do not be afraid to share Jesus as winsomely and lovingly as you can.
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for changing Paul. Please have mercy on _________ and change _______ into one of Your followers too. In Your saving name, O Lord. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 116 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 32:1-19; Psalm 106:1-23; Luke 16:1-13)
SPUR ON ONE ANOTHER IN LOVE
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good works.” (Hebrews 10:24 NIV)
We have just celebrated the resurrection of Jesus and the fact that God has made us His own. Now in Hebrews 10 draws our attention to drawn to encouraging fellow Christians in responding to all that Christ has done for us.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good works.”
• We’re all in this together. We need each another.
• Be kind, not rude.
• Be aware of one another’s hot buttons and don’t push them.
• Chose not to get upset with ideas that differ from yours.
• Build up one another often.
• Be open to suggestions. Realize that positive criticism can really help you grow.
• Look for the good in living for God with those around you.
• Have fun serving together.
• Don’t take yourself too seriously.
• Do take your relationship with others, especially fellow Christians, seriously.
• Spur one another on in serving the Lord together.
Lord Jesus, thank You for dying for me so that I can live with You forever. Please use me to spur other Christians around me to good works for You. I especially ask You to help me to not take myself too seriously by putting the feelings of others ahead of my own. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 115 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 31:1-21; Psalm 105; Luke 15:11-32)
FAITHFUL HEZEKIAH
Thus Hezekiah did throughout all Judah, and he did what was good and right and faithful before the Lord his God. And every work that he undertook in the service of the house of God and in accordance with the law and the commandments, seeking his God, he did with all his heart, and prospered. (2 Chronicles 31:20-21 ESV)
Hezekiah is an excellent example of faithfulness to God. “He did what was good and right and faithful before the Lord his God.” May this be said of you as well.
Of course God’s faithfulness is everything for us. “Great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:23) He faithfully keeps every promise He has made, including this one from the mouth of Jesus: “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” (Mark 1:15)
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee.
Thou changest not: Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.
REFRAIN
Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! REFRAIN
(Great Is Thy Faithfulness, Lutheran Service Book #809 1&3)
Lord, please grant me the same faithful insight You gave to Hezekiah so that I, too, may seek You with all of my heart. And thank You for Your faithfulness to me shown in Your pardon and peace. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 114 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 30:1-27; Psalm 104; Luke 15:1-10)
OUR GRACIOUS FATHER
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” (Luke 15:20 ESV)
The prodigal son had talked his father into giving him his share of the inheritance early so that he could go out on his own. He had squandered his wealth and found himself in dire straights. This reminds us of how we have treated our heavenly Father.
The rest of the story reveals how our heavenly Father has mercifully responded to us. “While he was still a long way off....” The father had been looking for his long-lost son, watching every day, and hoping he would return. When he did return, we get this explanation for his great joy. “It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.” (Luke 15:32 ESV)
Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind but now I see!
Heavenly Father, thank You seeking me out and graciously restoring me as Your child through the innocent suffering and death of Jesus. Yes, thank You for Your amazing grace. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 113 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 29:20-36; Psalm 103; Luke 14:12-35)
BLESS THE LORD
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit...
He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. (Psalm 103:1-4, 10-12 ESV)
Fellow repentant sinner, God has made you holy and fit for heaven. All of your sins are gone, separated from you as far as the east is from the west. WHAT A WONDERFUL REASON TO BLESS THE LORD!
He lives, oh the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to His cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
(Refrain:) It is well (it is well),
with my soul (with my soul),
It is well, it is well with my soul.
(“When Peace, Like a River,” Lutheran Service Book 762-3)
Gracious heavenly Father, I do bless You holy name for all of Your benefits showered upon me every day. Above all, I thank you for not repaying me according to my iniquities. Please continue to sustain me with Your steadfast love. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 112 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 29:3-19; Psalm 102; Luke 13:31-14:11)
Humility or Shame?
7 Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the places of honor, saying to them, 8 “When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest someone more distinguished than you be invited by him, 9 and he who invited you both will come and say to you, ‘Give your place to this person,’ and then you will begin with shame to take the lowest place. 10 But when you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at table with you. 11 For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 14:7-11)
Brewers announcer Bob Uecker made a commercial for Miller Lite where he got to speak this famous line, “I must be going to the front row!” However, where he wound up was just the opposite, up in the cheap seats, now known as the Uecker seats.
While that reference to Uecker is all humorous, there is nothing humorous about Jesus’ words. “‘Give your place to this person,’ and then you will begin with shame to take the lowest place.” He ties it all together in verse 11: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
Paul made a big deal about humility in his letters to the Ephesians, Philippians and Colossians. Is humility a big deal for you? I cannot speak for you, but for me it is not that difficult to be humble. I know my short comings. Even more, I am aware of my sin, and how utterly dependant I am upon God for His gift of forgiveness.
Heavenly Father, pleas keep me humble as I turn to You for forgiveness and reconciliation through Jesus, my Savior and my Lord. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 111 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 28:22-29:2; Psalm 101; Luke 13:18-30)
THE NARROW DOOR
And someone said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” (Luke13: 23-24 ESV)
Jesus is saying that only those who enter through the narrow door will get into heaven. What is He talking about? Listen to how His answers to that question:
So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep... I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:7-11 ESV)
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 ESV)
On the day of your Baptism, the Lord chose us and gave you faith, the key that opens the narrow door for you. The only ones who enter through the narrow door are those who confess their sins and trust in Christ as Savior and Lord.
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the narrow door and for accepting sinners like me. Please keep my faith in You strong so that I may continue to be an heir of eternity with You in heaven! Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 110 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 28:5-21; Psalm 100; Luke 13:6-17)
MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!
Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!
For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. (Psalm 100 ESV)
Sins forgiven...
Relationship with God restored...
Strength for today provided...
Heaven promised...
That is pretty impressive list of the treasures that are yours as a believer in Christ. May your response to these undeserved blessings reflect Psalm 100!
Gracious heavenly Father, please accept my joyful noise of praise and thanksgiving for all that You have freely bestowed upon me in Jesus. May my life reflect this in all that I do and say this day. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 109 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 27:1-28:4; Psalm 99; Luke 12:48-13:5)
SIGNS OF THE TIMES
He also said to the crowds, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, ‘A shower is coming.’ And so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, ‘There will be scorching heat,’ and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time? (Luke 12:54-56 ESV)
“Jesus condemns the unbelief of those beholding His miraculous signs who yet reject the obvious implications. Satan blinds the hearts of unbelievers even to this day. Only by God’s grace can we see clearly, as the Spirit opens our eyes through faith in Jesus Christ.” (Lutheran Study Bible, page1742)
Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind but now I see!
(Lutheran Service Book, #744)
Lord Jesus, please open my eyes to Your presence in my life. To this end, grant me a hunger for Your Word, the Bible. And then please use me to share You and Your promises with others. Amen.
“See” you on line tomorrow morning for church.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 108 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 26:16-23; Psalm 98; Luke 12:35-47)
DON’T FALL ASLEEP
“Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes... You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” (Luke 12:37&40)
Jesus is warning us and encouraging us to be aware and awake. He wants people to know that He is returning and that we had better be ready.
● Remember the Lord every day.
● Pray every day.
● Attend worship services weekly (on-line for a time)
● Trust in Christ alone for forgiveness and heaven.
● Repent
● Always, always, always STAY CLOSE TO YOUR JESUS!
Lord, please help me to stay awake and be ready for Your second coming. To this end, grant me a hunger for You Word and a desire to stay close to You. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 107 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 26:1-15; Psalm 97; Luke 12:13-34)
FEAR NOT
“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on... And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?” (Luke 12:22 & 25 ESV)
“The only thing we have to fear is feat itself.” (Franklin Delano Roosevelt 's first inaugural address) While this was meant to be encouraging, we can find much more crucial encouragement in the Bible where the message, DO NOT FEAR, occurs 365 times. Our text is one of those occasions.
“Do not be anxious...” Jesus is telling not to worry about the things of this life because God has everything under His control. And, besides, this life is only temporary.
Did you notice that the verses quoted begin with the word, “therefore?” Whenever you see that word in the Bible, you need to ask yourself what it is there for. The verse prior to verse 22 concludes Jesus’ lesson on NOT making earthly wealth the main thing in a person's life. “So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.” (21)
Our Savior wants us to understand the futility of worry when He reminds us that we can’t add a single hour to our lives. In other words, He wants us to trust Him completely. And since He has taken care of our biggest need by dying on the cross and guaranteeing heaven for us, we can live our lives without fear!
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!
(Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #735)
Lord Jesus, thank You so much for Your encouragement to not worry. When the fears and woes of this life get me down, remind me that You died so that heaven will be mine. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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 106 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 25:14-28; Psalm 96; Luke 12:1-12)
THE UNFORGIVABLE SIN
“And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God, but the one who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God. And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.” (Luke 12:8-10 ESV)
A couple of people I met some years ago would be surprised to know that they are guilty of the unforgivable sin. One claimed to be an agnostic and the other stated that she sees good in all religions, after all, “we all serve the same God.”
Jesus is calling us to genuine Christianity, the belief that “there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name (Jesus) under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12 ESV)
The unforgivable sin, a.k.a. the sin against the Holy Spirit, is the refusal to believe in Christ as Savior. Luther’s explanation to the Third Article of the Apostles’s Creed helps us understand the Spirit’s most crucial work:
I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.
Those people I met in the past had one thing going for them... They were still alive. They still had a chance to believe in Jesus as their Savior from sin. I encouraged both of them to look at Jesus, to read His words recorded in the gospels, especially John. It is through the Word of God that the Holy Spirit changes minds and leads doubters to Jesus and His precious gifts of forgiveness and heaven.
Lord, please protect me and keep my faith strong in Jesus my Savior. Help me to keep my eyes and ears open for others who do not believe in Christ s that You can use me to share the best news they will ever hear. And please, Lord, grant an end to the coronavirus pandemic. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
password: 518940
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
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 2020 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!
