Friday, July 1, 2022 - ARE YOU WALKING WITH JESUS?

 

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

Day 182 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 19:19-20:12; Psalm 1; Matthew 1:1-17)

ARE YOU WALKING WITH JESUS?

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. 4 The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; 6 for the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. (Psalm 1  ESV)

Those who walk with Jesus, that is, those who are trusting in Jesus for forgiveness, will, in God’s perfect time, reach the ultimate destination of heaven. Until we get there...

Let us ever walk with Jesus, 

Follow His example pure,

Through the world that would deceive us  

And to sin our spirits lure.

Onward in His footsteps treading, 

Pilgrims here, our home above,

Full of faith and hope and love, 

Let us do the Father's bidding.

Faithful Lord, with me abide; 

I shall follow where You guide.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #685 stanza 1)

Heavenly Father, may the Holy Spirit lead me in Your ways, so that I may ever walk with Jesus and reach the destination of heaven. In His saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Thursday, June 30, 2022 - PRAISE THE LORD

 

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

Day 181 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 19:1-18, Psalm 150; Revelation 22:6-21)

PRAISE THE LORD

“Praise the Lord!

Praise God in his sanctuary;

    praise him in his mighty heavens!

Praise him for his mighty deeds;

    praise him according to his excellent greatness!

Praise him with trumpet sound;

    praise him with lute and harp!

Praise him with tambourine and dance;

    praise him with strings and pipe!

Praise him with sounding cymbals;

    praise him with loud clashing cymbals!

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!

Praise the Lord!”   (Psalm 150 ESV) 

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;

Praise Him, all creatures here below;

Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.  Amen.

(Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #805)

Heavenly Father, I praise You for all that You have blessed me with. Above all, I praise You for sending Your Son to be my Savior. 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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Wednesday, June 29, 2022 - BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS

 

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

Day 180 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 18:20-46, Psalm 149; Revelation 21:9-22:5)

BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS 

“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6 ESV)

 Moses, who is about to be retired, encouraged the Israelites to face their future with strength and courage. Strength and courage are traits that many would like to have. If you are one of these folks, listen to how this can come about. Number one, don’t worry, the Lord will go with you wherever you go. Number two, He will never turn His back on you.

There is a phrase that I like to encourage God’s people to be sure to remember:

Always, always, always, always, always, always, always STAY CLOSE TO YOUR JESUS. 

Our text for today offers us another version:

Never, never, never, never, never, never, never WILL GOD LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU! 

Lord, what comfort I find in Your promise to never leave my side. I know that I do not deserve this. Thank You for Your mercy and grace showered upon me through Jesus, my Savior. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Tuesday, June 28, 2022 - 100% GUILTY

 

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

Day 179 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 19:19-20:12, Psalm 148; Revelation 20:11-21:8)

100% GUILTY

“For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it.” (James 2:10 ESV)

 

People have a tendency to excuse their sinful activities by comparing themselves to “big” sinners (murders, rapists, drunk drivers, bank robbers and terrorists). James reminds us that all sin is rebellion against God. The result is that each one of us being judged 100% guilty. YOU AND I ARE LAW BREAKERS - we have all broken God’s law.

The good news is that there is hope for us. It comes from the One who kept God’s entire Law perfectly. Jesus was 100% innocent, yet He suffered as one who was 100% guilty when He died in our place on Calvary’s cross. And now anyone who trusts in Him for forgiveness is declared 100% innocent and fit for heaven.

Heavenly Father, thank You for You amazing plan to change me from 100% guilty to 100% innocent. Please remind me to humbly admit my guilt and to trust in Your gift of forgiveness every day. 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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Monday, June 27, 2022 - THE STILL SMALL VOICE

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

Day 178 - (Today’s Bible readings:1 Kings 19:1-18, Psalm 147; Revelation 20:1-10)

 

THE STILL SMALL VOICE

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

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

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

God Himself is present:

Let us now adore Him

And with awe appear before Him.

God is in His temple;

All within keep silence;

Humbly kneel in deepest rev'rence.

He alone

On His throne

Is our God and Savior;

Praise His Name forever!

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #907, stanza 1)

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

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Sunday, June 26, 2022 - FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN

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

Day 177 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 18:20-46, Psalm 146; Revelation 19:11-21)

FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN

“Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” (Acts 2:37-39 ESV)

God promises the forgiveness of sins to all who believe in Jesus and are baptized. Two Baptisms in one week at two different locations. However, whether in a hospital or in church, the Baptismal promises remain the same.

“The promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” 

May the Lord bless you and your family as you celebrate your baptism and your faith!

Baptized into Your name most holy,

O Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,

I claim a place, though weak and lowly,

Among Your saints, Your chosen host.

Buried with Christ and dead to sin,

Your Spirit now shall live within. Amen.

(Baptized into Your Name Most Holy, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #590 stanza 1)   

“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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Saturday, June 25, 2022 - ANSWERED PRAYERS

 

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

Day 176 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 18:1-19, Psalm 145; Revelation 19:1-10)

ANSWERED PRAYERS

Psalm 145:18 -21

18 The Lord is near to all who call on him,

    to all who call on him in truth.

19 He fulfills the desire of those who fear him;

    he also hears their cry and saves them.

20 The Lord preserves all who love him,

    but all the wicked he will destroy.

21 My mouth will speak the praise of the Lord,

    and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.

Forty-nine years of prayer..., and yesterday the Lord heard our cry for the lives of babies in the womb, millions of whom have perished in these years. While we wonder why it had to take so long to strike down Roe vs Wade and return abortion legislation to the states, yet these truths remain:

 18 The Lord is near to all who call on him,

    to all who call on him in truth.

19 He fulfills the desire of those who fear him;

    he also hears their cry and saves them.

20 The Lord preserves all who love him,

    but all the wicked he will destroy.

A point to remember is that the Lord is near to you as well, even though it may seem to be taking forever for the truth to be revealed in your life. The Lord wants to save and preserve you no matter what is going on in your life and in the world around you.

And how do we respond when we see His answer to our prayers?

21 My mouth will speak the praise of the Lord,

    and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.

Heavenly Father, Lord of Life, thank You for answering the many decades of prayer for mothers and babies in our land. Please grant us peace as we work together to help mothers in need give their children the precious gift of life. Please remind me that You are with me too and that you will answer my prayers in Your way and in Your time. In Jesus’ life-affirming name. 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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Friday, June 24, 2022 - FAMILY BLESSINGS

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

Day 175 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 144; Revelation 18:1-24)

FAMILY BLESSINGS

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

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

“Blessed by the Lord” is my preferred way to answer someone who asks “how are you today?” “Blessed by the Lord” also describes what happened to my family 47 years ago today. A precious bundle of joy came into our lives on June 24, 1975, when the Lord blessed us with our daughter, Heidi Joy. She and her brother, Adam, and now their spouses and children, are truly precious blessings from the Lord. 

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

As a member of God’s family, may you be blessed by the Lord with the comfort and peace that comes from sins forgiven and heaven guaranteed. Please grant this heavenly Father, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Thursday, June 23, 2022 - LISTEN TO GOD

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

Day 174 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 17:1-16, Psalm 143; Revelation 16:17-17:18)

LISTEN TO GOD

“Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they are doing evil.  Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth. Therefore let your words be few.” (Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 ESV)

What were we taught as children? “Think before you speak.” That is what Solomon is getting at here, and much more. In addition to the warning to not speak  foolishly, he counsels us to listen to God, and I might add, to others too. 

Solomon’s conclusion is that we are to listen to God more and speak less. That is some pretty sound advice for getting along with others and for honoring God.

Listen, listen, God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

Jesus gave his mandate; share the good news 

that he came to save us and set us free.

Listen, listen, God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

Let none be forgotten throughout the world. 

In the triune name of God go and baptize.

Listen, listen, God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

Help us to be faithful, standing steadfast, 

walking in Your precepts, led by Your Word.

Listen, listen, God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

(“Listen, God Is Calling,”  Lutheran Service Book #833)

Heavenly Father, may my words be few and may what I say bring honor to You and benefit others. Above all, may I listen well to all that You would teach me in Your precious Word. 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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Wednesday, June 22, 2022 - GLORIFY GOD IN EVERYTHING

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

Day 173 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 16:21-34, Psalm 142; Revelation 15:1-16:16)

GLORIFY GOD IN EVERYTHING

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do,  do all to the glory of God.”   (1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV)

Paul is giving us some excellent advice when it comes to deciding what we should do, think or say. Negatively put, if you can’t do something, say something or even think something to the glory of God, you had better make another choice.

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”  (John 13:34-35 ESV)

Almighty God, please help me to glorify You in everything. Remind me of all that You have done for me through Jesus’ death on the cross. Help me to show my love for You by loving others. 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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!  

Tuesday, June 21, 2022 - WATCH YOUR MOUTH

 

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

Tuesday, June 21, 2022 - Day 172 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 15:33-16:20; Psalm 141; Revelation 14:1-20)

WATCH YOUR MOUTH

“Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth;

keep watch over the door of my lips!” (Psalm 141:3 ESV) 

The picture displays the universal tool (duct tape) being used to correct a universal problem.

Jesus identifies this problem in Matthew 15, “Hear and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.”

We have all heard someone taking the name of the Lord in vain. That is a blasphemous use of the mouth. But there are many other misuses. Lying, gossiping, cursing, misleading, griping, and the like are all misuses of God’s gift of speaking. David knew that he was prone to sin, just like the rest of us, so he cried out to God.

“Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!” 

The Eighth Commandment 

You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. 

What does this mean? 

We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, 

     but defend him, 

     speak well of him, and 

     explain everything in the kindest possible way.

And if you can't say something nice about another person, cover your mouth with duct tape! (Figuratively speaking, of course! Or is it figuratively non-speaking?)

Heavenly Father, like David, I ask You to guard over my mouth. May all that I say bring glory to Your name and benefit those around me. 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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Monday, June 20, 2022 - GOD OF THE SECOND CHANCE

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

Day 171 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 15:9-32; Psalm 140; Revelation 13:1-18)

GOD OF THE SECOND CHANCE

The word reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. And he issued a proclamation and published through Nineveh,... “Let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. Who knows? God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we may not perish.”... When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it. (Jonah 31:6-10 ESV)

God gave the people of Ninevah second chance. From the king on down, they repented and God relented. They had their second chance.

Earlier in this book, Jonah was given a second chance. He had refused to go to Ninevah because he didn’t believe they deserved a second chance. God had Jonah tossed into the sea where a great fish swallowed him up. After three days, God had the fish toss Jonah back. Jonah got the message. He took his second chance and went to Ninevah.

In Christ, God has given you a second chance as well. Repent of your sins and believe that God has accepted Jesus’ death on the cross as payment for all of them.

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me a second chance by sending Jesus to be my Savior. Please use me to share Your gift of the second chance with others who need this gift as much a I do. 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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Sunday, June 19, 2022 - GOD KNOWS YOUR NAME

 

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

Day 170 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 14:19-15:8; Psalm 139; Revelation 12:1-17)

GOD KNOWS YOUR NAME

“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.” (Psalm 139:13-15 ESV) 

When does life begin? The answer was pretty obvious to David. Life begins in the womb, where God fearfully and wonderfully knits us together.

How does God want His people to respond? We get to remember that God has a plan for every life. That makes you very special. In fact, God even knows your name. Please take time to watch this video clip all the way through. The moving song begins about 2 minutes into the clip. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KM3ndNE-Fo

Yes, life is a precious gift from God. 

Heavenly Father, the Creator of all, thank You for the gift of life. Please help all of us to value life. In the name of Jesus, the Lord of Life. 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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Saturday, June 18, 2022 - THE LORD IS LISTENING

 

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

Day 169 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 14:1–18; Psalm 138; Rev. 11)

THE LORD IS LISTENING

“The Lord is near to all who call on him,

    to all who call on him in truth.”   (Psalm 145:18 ESV) 

They say that there are no atheists in foxholes. I would think that the same would be true with hurricanes, tornadoes, floods and other calamities. Can you imagine the horror and paralyzing fear that come over individuals caught in the middle of such events? And can you imagine how may prayers for rescue are sent heavenward?

“Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.” (Psalm 50:15 ESV)

In today’s verse, we reminded of one of the key components of effectual prayers.

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” 

Are you experiencing days of trouble? Are you calling on the Lord for deliverance? Are you doing so in truth, that is in faith?

The writer of that great “prayer hymn” certainly had this truth in mind when he penned these precious words:

1. What a Friend we have in Jesus, 

        All our sins and griefs to bear!  

What a privilege to carry 

        Ev’rything to God in prayer!

Oh, what peace we often forfeit, 

        Oh, what needless pain we bear,

All because we do not carry 

        Everything to God in prayer.

2. Have we trials and temptations?  

        Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged, 

        Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Can we find a Friend so faithful 

        Who will all our sorrows share?

Jesus knows our every weakness - 

        Take it to the Lord in prayer.

3. Are we weak and heavy laden, 

        Cumbered with a load of care?

Precious Savior, still our Refuge - 

        Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?  

        Take it to the Lord in prayer;

In His arms He'll take and shield thee, 

        Thou wilt find a solace there.

(“What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” Lutheran Service Book 2006, #770)

Heavenly Father, thank You for answering prayers for rescue from many caught in the calamities of life. Please watch over and protect all who may be in peril of the other storms of life as well. In Jesus’ saving name. 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 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Friday, June 17, 2022 - HOW PERSUASIVE ARE YOU?

 

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

Day 168 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 13:11-34; Psalm 137; Revelation 9:12-10:11)

HOW PERSUASIVE ARE YOU?

“King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.” And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?”  And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains."  (Acts 26:27-29 ESV)

 

Paul appealed to Caesar for a trial in Rome rather than be subject to the treacherous lies of the Jewish leaders. But first he is questioned by Roman rulers Festus and Agrippa. Paul’s defense is a clear proclamation of the saving Gospel of Jesus the Christ. King Agrippa’s familiarity with the Jewish prophecies prompted Paul’s direct and challenging statement: “I know that you believe.” Agrippa gave a disappointing and tragic answer. “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” (King James Version) But almost doesn’t make it when it comes to faith. 

Next, we get a revealing glimpse into the focus of Paul’s life and ministry.

“Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.”

And how was Paul? Paul was filled with confident faith in the Babe of Bethlehem, the Christ of Calvary and the Savior of his soul, as his letter to the church in Rome reveals.

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:37-39)

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of courageous faith revealed in St. Paul. Lord, please give that same kind of faith so that You can use me to reach others for heaven too. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Thursday, June 16, 2022 - TRUMPET BLASTS

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

Day 167 - (Today’s Bible readings:1 Kings 13:1-10; Psalm 136; Revelation 8:1-9:11)

TRUMPET BLASTS

“When the Lamb opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour.  Then I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them. And another angel came and stood at the altar with a golden censer, and he was given much incense to offer with the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar before the throne, and the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose before God from the hand of the angel. Then the angel took the censer and filled it with fire from the altar and threw it on the earth, and there were peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning, and an earthquake.”

 (Revelation 8:1-5 ESV)

“After finishing his vision of the seven seals being broken, John transitions to another vision, which depicts the end times with successive trumpet blasts. The visions are frightful since we all know in our hearts that we cannot stand before God in the judgment. Fortunately, we have One who stands beside us as our advocate–Jesus Christ–celebrated in chapters 4-5. His blood cleanses us from all sins.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 2213.)

Lord Jesus, our righteous Judge, thank You for also being my advocate. Thank You for doing this by clothing this repentant sinner with Your blood and righteousness. Please nurture my faith via Your Word and Sacraments so that I will be ready for the trumpet blasts. Amen.  

 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Wednesday, June 15, 2022 - THE GREAT MULTITUDE

 

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

Day 166 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 12:16-33; Psalm 135; Revelation 7:1-17)

THE GREAT MULTITUDE

“After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, ‘salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’”

 (Revelation 7:9-10 ESV)

In today’s verses we are given a glimpse of the eternity that Christ’s Second Advent will usher in. By the grace of God, you and I will be part of the multitude of believers who spend forever praising God for His gracious gift of salvation. What an awesome scene is depicted here; people from every nation, all tribes, all peoples and languages. What a stark contrast to what we see on the news and read in the papers. How do we respond to the One who guarantees this awesome gift of eternal life? We sing...

https://youtu.be/gR1SEA8TIG4

This is the feast of victory for our God.  

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

Worthy is Christ, the Lamb Who was slain, 

Whose blood set us free to be people of God.

This is the feast of victory for our God.  

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

Power, riches, wisdom, and strength, 

and honor, blessing, and glory are His.

This is the feast of victory for our God.  

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

Sing with all the people of God, 

and join in the hymn of all creation:

Blessing, honor, glory, and might be to God 

and the Lamb forever.  Amen.

This is the feast of victory for our God.  

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

For the Lamb Who was slain has begun His reign.  

Alleluia.

This is the feast of victory for our God.  

Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.

Almighty God, thank You for opportunity to practice for heaven every time we gather to worship You and join in the hymn of all creation. Please keep me close to You through faith in my Savior, Jesus, so that I may sing Your praises now and forever. Amen.  

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!