Sunday, February 28, 2021

March 1, 2021 - THE DESTINATION OF LENT



Day 60 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 26,27; Mark 8:22-38)

THE DESTINATION OF LENT

And they were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was walking ahead of them. And they were amazed, and those who followed were afraid. And taking the twelve again, he began to tell them what was to happen to him, saying, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death and deliver him over to the Gentiles. And they will mock him and spit on him, and flog him and kill him. And after three days he will rise.”  (Mark 10:32-34 ESV)

The purpose of Lent is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ - His suffering and His sacrifice, His life, death, burial and resurrection.

The Gospel lesson assigned for today in our through-the-Bible-in-a-year helps to focus on the destination of Lent. Jesus, referring to Himself as the “Son of Man,” clearly proclaims what will be happening to Him in Jerusalem.

“... The Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and the scribes, and they will condemn him to death and deliver him over to the Gentiles. 34 And they will mock him and spit on him, and flog him and kill him. And after three days he will rise.” 

This is the destination of our annual Lent journey.

Jesus, I will ponder now 
On Your holy Passion;
With Your Spirit me endow
 For such meditation.
Grant that I in love and faith 
May the image cherish
Of Your suff'ring, pain, and death 
That I may not perish.
 (Jesus I Will Ponder Now, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, #440, stanza 1)

Lord, may the season of Lent be a blessing to me. Grant me a penitent and thankful heart as I journey to Mt. Calvary and the resurrection tomb. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Saturday, February 27, 2021

February 28, 2021 - OPEN EARS



Day 59 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 21,25; Mark 7:14-37-8:21)

OPEN EARS

And they brought to him a man who was deaf and had a speech impediment, and they begged him to lay his hand on him. And taking him aside from the crowd privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and after spitting touched his tongue. And looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” And his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. And Jesus charged them to tell no one. But the more he charged them, the more zealously they proclaimed it. (Mark 7:32-36 ESV)

The deaf mute had a great need, but there were no medical specialists available to help him. Then Jesus came on the scene, and the man had hope. The man’s friends petition Jesus on behalf of their friend. You have a friend named Jesus who petitions God the Father on Your behalf. 

Just as the man’s greatest need was to hear, so our greatest need is to hear God’s Word. Only in God’s Word do we find the offer of forgiveness and hope for the future. We find these treasures in Jesus, of whom God the Father will say in this coming Sunday’s Gospel lesson, “listen to Him.”

Listen, listen, God is calling 
through the Word inviting,
offering forgiveness,
comfort and joy.
 (Listen, Listen, God Is Calling, Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #833)

Heavenly Father, please keep my ears open to You and Your word of Law that calls me to repentance, and Your word of Gospel that calls me to faith in my Savior, Jesus. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Friday, February 26, 2021

February 27, 2021 - IT’S ALL ABOUT...



Day 58 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 18-20; Mark 7:1-13)

IT’S ALL ABOUT...

...The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Take the staff, and assemble the congregation, you and Aaron your brother, and tell the rock before their eyes to yield its water. So you shall bring water out of the rock for them and give drink to the congregation and their cattle.” And Moses took the staff from before the Lord, as he commanded him. Then Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock, and he said to them, “Hear now, you rebels: shall we bring water for you out of this rock?” And Moses lifted up his hand and struck the rock with his staff twice, and water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their livestock. And the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not believe in me, to uphold me as holy in the eyes of the people of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land that I have given them.” (Numbers 20:7-12 ESV)

“Instead of letting the Word of the Lord reveal its power (v.8), Moses sought to make his contribution to the miracle by striking the rock twice. Thereby he failed to sanctify God before the eyes of the people. The Lord was forgiving toward Moses, but Moses’ actions had consequences. Moses could not exalt himself before God.” (Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 247)

For Moses, it was all about Moses. “Shall we bring water for you out of this rock?...struck the rock...twice”

Sadly, Moses’ problem is also our problem. We, too, think it is all about us. Putting ourselves first is exactly what all sin is about. However, the First Commandment is still in force.

“You shall have no other gods. 
What does this mean? We should fear, love and trust in God above all things.
When do people have other gods? When they fear, love or trust in any person or thing as they should fear, love and trust in God alone.” (Luther’‘s Small Catechism, CPH, 1986)

Thank the Lord He has good news for sinners like you and me.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (John 1:9 ESV)

Heavenly Father, please forgive me for the many times I have put myself ahead of You. Continually remind me of all that Your Son has done to make me Your child. May I respond to Your gift of forgiveness by keeping You first in my life. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Thursday, February 25, 2021

February 26, 2021 - GO AND SEE



Day 57 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 16,17; Mark 6:33-56)  

GO AND SEE

And he said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out, they said, “Five, and two fish.” Then he commanded them all to sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups, by hundreds and by fifties. And taking the five loaves and the two fish he looked up to heaven and said a blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the people. And he divided the two fish among them all. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish. And those who ate the loaves were five thousand men. (Mark 6:38-44 ESV)

There was a tremendous need. Five thousand hungry followers needed a meal and the local McDonalds would not be open for another 2,000 years. So the Lord sent his disciples out to see what was available among the crowd. They went, but all they came up with was five loaves of bread and two fish. They had gone, and now they were going to really see.

Jesus “said a blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the people. And he divided the two fish among them all. And they all ate and were satisfied.” 

Five thousand men, plus the women and children, all had enough to eat. In fact, there was more food left over than they had to start with. This was truly a miracle. Jesus is truly someone special. But the people didn’t know yet how special He is.

Today Jesus still feeds us, heals us, provides for us, and loves us. What is most difficult for us to see is His work of salvation in our lives. 

First, we have a hard time admitting that we need Him, even though our shortcomings and sins stare us in the face daily. On the other hand, many have a hard time believing that God could love them so much that He would send Jesus to die as payment for their sins.

However, like the folks that enjoyed the fish “fry” in our text, we get to see and taste His miraculous provision in Holy Communion where Jesus comes to us in His very body and blood. This is truly the most miraculous of meals. Here He strengthens our faith in Him, forgives our sins and reminds us that the best is yet to come in heaven.

Lord Jesus, thank You for telling Your disciples, then and now, to go and see Your miraculous work in our lives. Please keep me in Your tender care today and forever. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Wednesday, February 24, 2021

February 25, 2021 - NOURISHMENT AND REST FOR YOUR SOUL



Day 56 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 14,15; Mark 6:1-32)

NOURISHMENT AND REST FOR YOUR SOUL

And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. (Mark 6:32 ESV)

Jesus shows He concern for His disciples as invites them to seek a meal and some rest.

Physical food and rest are necessary to recharge our bodies. Likewise, spiritual food and rest are necessary to recharge our souls. While the disciples went off to a desolate place for refreshment, we are called to spiritual places that are anything but desolate.

In our churches we find nourishment and rest for our souls as we listen to the One who said:

Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew1:29 ESV)

David echoed the blessings of our houses of worship when he wrote:

I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” (Psalm 121:1 ESV)

What makes the house of the Lord so special is that He meets us there and feeds our souls with His Word and Sacraments. What blessed rest comes to those who hear His words of reconciliation and forgiveness:

“Your sins are forgiven in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

I love Your kingdom, Lord,
The house of Your abode,
The Church our blest Redeemer saved
With His own precious blood.
(I love Your kingdom, Lord, Lutheran Service Book, #651 v. 1)

Lord Jesus, thank You for the nourishment and rest You provide my soul in Your house. Let nothing keep me from the weekly treasures Your serve me there in the form of Your holy Word and the sacraments of Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Please grant that many more people may join us in Your house or on line.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Tuesday, February 23, 2021

February 24, 2021 - FEAR OR FAITH?

Day 55 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 11-13; Mark 5:21-43)

FEAR OR FAITH?

While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler's house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.”... Taking her by the hand he said to her, “Talitha cumi,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” And immediately the girl got up and began walking (for she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement. (Mark 5:35-36, 42-42 ESV)

Jesus makes two life-altering statements in this account.

“Do not fear, only believe.” 
and
“Little girl, I say to you, arise.”

How life-altering to live by faith and not under fear. The only One who can back up such a directive is  He who created all things. Jesus backs up His words and His desire by calling the dead little girl to come back to life.

This is exactly what He does to and for us daily by calling us to faith and repentance.

Do you have any fear in your life? Listen to Jesus, the One who guarantees forgiveness and heaven to all who repent and believe. With such gracious and life-altering promises, you can truly be at peace no matter what your circumstances in life may be!

Lord Jesus, thank You for calling me to faith by defeating my greatest fears. Please keep me strong in that faith all my days.  And then, in Your time, grant me the gift of eternal life with You. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Monday, February 22, 2021

February 23, 2021 - GO AND TELL



Day 54 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 8-10; Mark 5:1-20)

GO AND TELL

As he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. And he did not permit him but said to him, “Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled. (Mark 5:18-20 ESV)

Can you imagine the sense of joy and thanksgiving that overwhelmed the formerly demon possessed man? His horrible nightmare was over. Jesus had freed him from a doomed life. And, naturally, he wanted to stay with Jesus. Instead, Jesus had a better idea. He gave his life a divine purpose:

“Go home to your friends and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” 

There is a parallel between the formerly demon-possessed man and us. When we realize what Jesus has done for us, we too are filled with joy and thanksgiving. Luther’s explanation of Baptism helps us understand this blessing.

“What does such baptizing with water indicate?
It indicates that the Old Adam in us should by daily contrition and repentance be drowned and die with all sins and evil desires, and that a new man should daily emerge and arise to live before God in righteousness and purity forever.”  (Luther’s Small Catechism)

Our response to Jesus freeing us from sin, death and the devil is joy and thanksgiving. Jesus’ response to us is the same also.

“Go... and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how He has had mercy on you.” 

Lord Jesus, thank You for freeing me from sin, death and the devil. Help me to remember what this means. Empower me to live for You today by telling others what you have done for me. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Sunday, February 21, 2021

February 22, 2021 - PEACE, BE STILL



Day 53 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 7; Mark 4:21-41)

PEACE, BE STILL

And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?”  And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him? (Mark 4:3-41 ESV)

“Hush, little baby, don’t you cry...” So starts a lullaby intended to comfort an infant into peaceful and quiet sleep. “Peace, be still” are the words of our Savior Jesus intended in this text to quiet both the raging storm and the anxious hearts of His disciples.

“Peace! Be Still!” Do you ever find yourself in need of the Savior’s word of comfort in your life? If you are human, like the rest of us, you desperately need such assurance. Whatever storms come into your life, Jesus is able to grant you His peace. That is the message of the cross where He secured the perfect peace of sins forgiven and heaven promised!

♬ When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well with my soul.
My sin, 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!
It is well, it is well with my soul.
(“When Peace, Like a River,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #762 stanzas1&3)

Lord Jesus, thank You for calming the storms in my life and granting me the peace of sins forgiven and the promise of heaven. Help me to remember Your peace-giving presence today and always. Amen.
Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Saturday, February 20, 2021

February 21, 2021 - PUT MY NAME ON THE PEOPLE



Day 52 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 5,6; Mark 4:1-20)

PUT MY NAME ON THE PEOPLE

The Lord spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying, Thus you shall bless the people of Israel: you shall say to them,

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.

So shall they put my name upon the people of Israel, and I will bless them.” (Numbers 6:22-27 ESV)

“The Aaronic benediction is still repeated in Christian worship. Note that the divine name Yahweh (LORD) is used three times in reference to the triune nature of God. What a blessing it is to know that God the Father blesses all aspect of our lives, that God the Son has redeemed us poor, miserable sinners, and that God the Holy Spirit calls us by the Gospel. He saves us by His name, applied to us in Holy Baptism and invoked by us throughout our lives.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 225)

Link to a moving musical presentation of this verse:

Every time this blessing is proclaimed, the name of the Lord is placed on you and you are truly blessed by the Lord. So...

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774
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Friday, February 19, 2021

February 20, 2021 - BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST



Day 51 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 3,4; Mark 3:22-35)

BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST

And his mother and his brothers came, and standing outside they sent to him and called him. And a crowd was sitting around him, and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers are outside, seeking you.” And he answered them, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking about at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother. (Mark 3:31-35 ESV)

Thank God He has made us brothers and sisters OF Christ. He has done this by means of...

● the Cross where Jesus fulfilled God’s will on our behalf.
● the body and blood of Jesus given and shed for the forgiveness of sins.
● our Baptisms where the Holy Spirit gave us saving faith in Jesus.
● the promises of God’s Word all pointing to Jesus and you.

Yes, thank God we are brothers and sisters of Christ. And because of this, we are also brothers and sisters IN Christ.

1. Sing Alleluia! Amen! Let your prayers and your praises ascend.
Lift up your voices and sing to the Lord God, our Savior and King!
Here brought together by grace, We are gathered as friends in this place.
And assembled as one in the Name of the Son, 
Lifting hearts, lifting hands, celebrating as friends,
And proclaiming the Lord, All our praises afford.  We are brothers and sisters in Christ.

2. Man walked alone and in need, Without faith, hope or promise or creed;
Wandering aimlessly lost, unaware of the staggering cost; 
That God in His mercy would save All His people from death and the grave
And assembled as one in the Name of the Son, 
Lifting hearts, lifting hands, celebrating as friends,
And proclaiming the Lord, All our praises afford.  We are brothers and sisters in Christ.

3. Lord teach us how to proclaim, All Your goodness, Your love and Your name!
Lord teach us how to forgive, and in love, teach us Lord, how to live.
Raising our voices in song, Help us tell all the world we belong.
And assembled as one in the Name of the Son, 
Lifting hearts, lifting hands, celebrating as friends,
And proclaiming the Lord, All our praises afford.  We are brothers and sisters in Christ. 
        Amen.
[Words and music by Terry Dittmer, copyright 1983 by the author]

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Thursday, February 18, 2021

February 19, 2021 - DOING WHAT’S RIGHT, EVEN WHEN...



Day 50 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Numbers 1,2; Mark 3:1-21)

DOING WHAT’S RIGHT, EVEN WHEN...

Again he entered the synagogue, and a man was there with a withered hand. And they watched Jesus, to see whether he would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man with the withered hand, “Come here.” And he said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” But they were silent. And he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, and said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him. (Mark 3:1-6 ESV)

The artist captured well the drama in these short six verses. 

● A man in need.
● A judgmental crowd.
● A question put forth.
● Silence.
● Righteous anger and hardened hearts.
● A hand restored.
● Hatred eagerly unleashed.

Why did Jesus go ahead and miraculously restore the man’s hand on the Sabbath? He knew what the Pharisees were up to. Why didn’t He just wait until the next day?

Have you ever seen a police officer directing cars to go through a red light? He has the authority to override the traffic laws if the situation demands it. Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath (Matthew 12:8). He is God, the One who gave the Sabbath laws in the first place. He had the right to help the man in need. Healing on the Sabbath was the right thing for Jesus to do!

There may be times when it is not popular, and sometimes not legal, to obey the will of God. At times like that, Peter’s words echo in our ears: “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29 ESV)

Yea, Lord, ’twas Thy rich bounty gave
My body, soul, and all I have
In this poor life of labor.
Lord, grant that I in ev’ry place
May glorify Thy lavish grace
And help and serve my neighbor.
Let no false doctrine me beguile;
Let Satan not my soul defile.Give strength and patience unto me
To bear my cross and follow Thee.
Lord Jesus Christ, my God and Lord, my God and Lord,
In death Thy comfort still afford. 
Amen. 
(“Lord, Thee I Love with All My Heart”  Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #708 v 2)

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://bit.ly/StPaulsBrownDeer
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774
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Wednesday, February 17, 2021

February 18, 2021 - NEWNESS IN CHRIST



Day 49 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Leviticus 26,27; Mark 2)

NEWNESS IN CHRIST

Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. And people came and said to him, “Why do John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins—and the wine is destroyed, and so are the skins. But new wine is for fresh wineskins.” (Mark 2:18-22 ESV)

“Jesus stresses that the time of fulfillment has arrived, and thus totally new ways of thinking and acting are in order. In our own lives, the same dynamic is at work. It will not do simply to patch some little bit of the Gospel on our existing lifestyle and expect it all to hold together. Thankfully, the Lord offers such surpassingly great promises that the old is made obsolete. That is what Paul meant when he said in 2 Corinthians 5:17, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”  (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 1659)

How can such life changes and such newness come about?

●  Prayer - for God’s guidance and insight into His will.
●  Study of the Word of God - where we are shown the will of God.
●  Weekly worship - where God comes to us in His Word and Sacraments.
●  Regular reception of the Lord’s Supper (weekly?) - given and shed for you.
●  Consolation of the brethren - sharing life’s challenges and joys with fellow Christians.

Children of God, 
Dying and rising, 
Sing to the Lord a new song! 
Heaven and earth, 
Hosts everlasting, 
Sing to the Lord a new song! 
He has done marvelous things. 
I too will praise Him with a new song! 
Amen. 
                                                            (“Earth and All Stars,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #817 stanza 7)

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Tuesday, February 16, 2021

February 17, 2021 - ASH WEDNESDAY



Day 48 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Leviticus 24,25; Mark 1:23-45)

ASH WEDNESDAY

May the words of Psalm 51 help you prepare for worship this Ash Wednesday as we gather in our churches or on line to begin the annual journey of Lent:

1 Have mercy on me, O God,
    according to your steadfast love;
according to your abundant mercy
    blot out my transgressions.
2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,
    and cleanse me from my sin!

3 For I know my transgressions,
    and my sin is ever before me.
4 Against you, you only, have I sinned
    and done what is evil in your sight,
so that you may be justified in your words
    and blameless in your judgment.
5 Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity,
    and in sin did my mother conceive me.
6 Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being,
    and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;
    wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
8 Let me hear joy and gladness;
    let the bones that you have broken rejoice.
9 Hide your face from my sins,
    and blot out all my iniquities.
10 Create in me a clean heart, O God,
    and renew a right spirit within me.
11 Cast me not away from your presence,
    and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
    and uphold me with a willing spirit.

13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
    and sinners will return to you.
14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God,
    O God of my salvation,
    and my tongue will sing aloud of your righteousness.
15 O Lord, open my lips,
    and my mouth will declare your praise.
16 For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it;
    you will not be pleased with a burnt offering.
17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;
    a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

        Jesus, I will ponder now 
On Your holy Passion;
With Your Spirit me endow
For such meditation.
Grant that I in love and faith 
May the image cherish
Of Your suff'ring, pain, and death 
That I may not perish. 
 (Jesus I Will Ponder Now, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #440, stanza 1)

Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

ASH WESNESDAY SERVICE ON (2/17/21) ZOOM AT 7 PM
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 7 pm
both with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Monday, February 15, 2021

February 16, 2021 - TEMPTATION - THE SHORT VERSION



Day 47 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Leviticus 22,23; Mark 1:1-22 047)
TEMPTATION - THE SHORT VERSION

“The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him.” (Mark 1:12-13 ESV)

Mark reports the temptation of Jesus in 2 short verses, while Matthew uses 11 verses to fill in the details. 

Many prefer to take the short version when it comes to temptation. They do this by ignoring God’s Law or by simply denying that there are any rules at all. These same folks even deny the existence of God. And since, they reason, there is no right or wrong, there can be no temptation.

This is so dangerous! God is real. His Law is in force. We also need to know that the devil is on the job, tempting us to break God’s Law.

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8 ESV)

What we really miss in the sort version is the antidote to temptation proclaimed by Jesus:

But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”   (Matthew 4:4 ESV)

Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” (Matthew 4:7 ESV)

Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’” (Matthew 4:10 ESV)

Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching me how to withstand the temptations of Satan. Remind me of what is written in the Bible about my personal weaknesses and sinful inclinations. Please bless me again this day with a truly penitent heart and with Your gracious gift of forgiveness. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

ASH WESNESDAY SERVICE ON (2/17/21) ZOOM AT 7 PM
Password: 843774

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Sunday, February 14, 2021

February 15, 2021 - CHRIST IS RISEN INDEED! ALLELUIA!


Day 46 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Leviticus 20,21; Matthew 28)

CHRIST IS RISEN INDEED! ALLELUIA!

Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” (Matthew 28:1-10 ESV

How do we know for sure that our sins are forgiven and we are heading for heaven? The answer is found in Jesus’ empty tomb and the fact of His physical resurrection from the dead. The catechism explains it this way:

Question # 145 Why is Christ's resurrection so important and comforting?
Christ's resurrection proves that
A. Christ is the Son of God;
B. His doctrine is the truth;
C. God the Father accepted Christ's sacrifice for the reconciliation of the world;
  D. all believers in Christ will rise to eternal life.

The resurrection of Christ proves that every promise of God is true. Therefore we can trust Him in all things. What comfort and assurance that gives us in this uncertain and chaotic world!
Almighty God, heavenly Father, thank You for the comfort and assurance You have provided through the resurrection of You Son. What joy and holy anticipation this gives repentant sinners like me.  Because He lives, I too will live. Christ is risen. He is risen indeed. Alleluia.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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Saturday, February 13, 2021

February 14, 2021 - WORDS OF LOVE



Day 45 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Leviticus 18-19; Matthew 27:32-66)

WORDS OF LOVE

Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:45-46 ESV

He was a third century priest. He chose to disobey the Roman Emperor and obey God instead by secretly marrying young couples. He was arrested and tried. One of his judges, a man by the name of Asterius, had a blind daughter whom Gold healed at the prayerful behest of this man. He was convicted and sentenced to death. He wrote a final note to the daughter of Asterius and signed it: “from your Valentine.” Or so the legend goes concerning the origins of Valentine’s Day.

From the cross, Jesus spoke words of love that eclipse any attempt we humans may make to convey love: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” 

These words show God the Father’s great love for us sinners. Jesus spoke these words in love so that you and I will never have to. He was expressing the doom of the damned...being forsaken by God.

Thank God He love us so! Now there is a way out from under the burden and the curse of our sins. We who confess our faith in Jesus and repent of our sins are forgiven and guaranteed heaven. And we love God for this. In fact... We love because he first loved us. (1 John 4:19 ESV)

1 God loved the world so that He gave
   His only Son the lost to save,
   That all who would in Him believe
   Should everlasting life receive.

3 God would not have the sinner die,
   His Son with saving grace is nigh;
   His Spirit in the Word declares
   How we in Christ are heaven's heirs.
   “God Loved the World So That He Gave,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH # 571 (1,3)
O dearest Jesus, thank You for Your great love for sinners like me. Thank You for speaking the words of the damned in hell for me. Help me now to lovingly share Your love with others.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

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