Monday, August 1, 2022 - GOD’S PERFECT TIMING

"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 213 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Kings 5:15-6:7; Psalm 31; Matthew 15:21-39)

GOD’S PERFECT TIMING

“My times are in your hand.” (Psalm 31:15 ESV)  

Time, like an ever-rolling stream,

Soon bears us all away;

We fly forgotten as a dream

Dies at the op'ning day.

(“Our God, Our Help in Ages Past,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #733 stanza 5)

While the hymn stanza portrays a sober view of time, our verse for today clearly comforts us with the assurance that our time is in God’s almighty hand. The comfort comes from knowing that God’s timing is always perfect.

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5 ESV)  

When you take a careful look at your life, you will become aware of what I see in my life, namely, that 

● God puts us in the right place 

● at the right time 

● for His right purpose.

Almighty God, thank You for Your perfect timing in my life, starting with my Baptism. In Your perfect time, grant me the gift of heaven for Jesus’ sake. Until that time, may I use my time for You and Your purposes. 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, July 31, 2022 - LOOK FORWARD TO JOY

"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 212 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30; Matthew 15:1-20)

LOOK FORWARD TO JOY

Weeping may tarry for the night but joy comes with the morning. (Psalm 30:5b ESV)  

The Psalmist gives hope to anyone lost in life’s long night of weeping. Disappointment, disillusionment, despair, and disasters of life come to all of us at some time, resulting in weeping. But the morning also comes with its joy.

 “And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”  (Nehemiah 8:4b)

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” (Psalm 51:12)

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”  Romans 8:18)

Lord Jesus, my Savior, thank You for being the joy of my life. Help me always remember this, especially when I find myself focusing on life’s long night of weeping. In Jesus’ saving name. 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, July 30, 2022 - REACH OUT TO 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 211 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Kings 4:38-44, Psalm 29; Matthew 14:22-36)

REACH OUT TO JESUS

But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” 

  And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”  (Matthew 14:27-33 ESV)

The familiar account has much that applies to our everyday lives.

1. How should we respond to fear?

    Listen to Jesus: “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”

2. How should we respond to His advice?

Obey Jesus: So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.

3. What should we do when we are in over our heads?

Cry out to Jesus:  “Lord, save me.”

4. What should we do when He does save us?

Worship Jesus: “Truly you are the Son of God.” 

So, believe and be saved.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for saving me by dying on the cross in payment for my sins. Grant me faith to trust You, even when You call me to get out of the boat. Please use me to help others know that You are the Son of God and the Savior of our souls. 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!

Friday, July 29, 2022 - PATIENT PRAYING

"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 210 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Kings 4:18-37, Psalm 28; Matthew 14:1-21)

PATIENT PRAYING 

“Make me to know your ways, O Lord;

    teach me your paths.

Lead me in your truth and teach me,

    for you are the God of my salvation;

    for you I wait all the day long.” (Psalm 25:4-5 ESV) 

“David prays, ‘For You I wait all the day long.’ God promises to answer prayer, but we may be impatient or tempted to question His answers.  Even when our faithfulness fails, God is faithful.  He hears our prayers and truly acts for our good.  In faith, we patiently wait for Him.”  (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 867) 

God of my salvation, open my eyes to Your path and Your truth. Please grant me the patience to wait for You and the faith to believe Your promises. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.” 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), 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, July 27, 2022 - WHOM SHALL I FEAR?

"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 208 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Kings 4:1-17, Psalm 27; Matthew 13:44-58 )

WHOM SHALL I FEAR?

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1 ESV) 

You check the latest news and discover that, once again, it is not good. There is so much going on that could make us fearful about the future. Where will terrorists strike next time? What will the doctor say? Will I loose my job or keep it? 

King David was not a stranger to fearful times. Yet he knew that the only answer for security and peace is the Lord. God shines the light of His love and His gift of salvation into the lives of His people. The Lord is our stronghold, our defense, and the One who drives all fear away.

Have no fear, little flock;

Have no fear little flock,

For the Father has chosen

To give you the Kingdom;

Have no fear, little flock!

(“Have No Fear, Little Flock,” Lutheran Service Book #735)

Lord, thank You for showing us the way of salvation in Jesus, my Savior. While world and national events may be fearful, assure me of Your presence and Your peace. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), 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, July 27, 2022 - DELAY NOT

"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 208 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Kings 3; Psalm 26; Matthew 13:31-43)

DELAY NOT

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad.  So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”  (Matthew 13:47-50 ESV)

There are two definitions to the word “dragnet.”

1) A series of actions that are done by the police in order to catch criminals.

2) A net that is pulled along the bottom of a river, lake, pond, etc., to search for or collect something.

The old Dragnet TV series from the 50's and 60's was based on the first definition. Our text is based on both definitions. When, at the end of the age (Judgement Day) all people have been “apprehended,” there will be a separation of the evil from the righteous. All people will be in either one or the other category. What changes evil sinners into righteous saints?”

“The blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  (I John 1:7b-9 ESV)

How are people to respond to the impending dragnet?

   

Delay not, delay not! The hour is at hand;

The earth will dissolve, and the heavens will fade.

The dead, small and great, in the judgment must stand.

What power, then, O sinner, can lend you its aid? 

Delay not, delay not! Why longer abuse

The love and compassion of Jesus, your God?

A fountain is opened; how can you refuse

To wash and be cleansed in his pardoning blood? 

(The Lutheran Hymnal, CPH 1941, # 349, stanzas 4-5)

Heavenly Father, help me to continue to repent of my sins and believe in my Savior. Until You call me home to heaven, please use me to warn others so that they, too, can be Yours forever. 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, July 26, 2022 - GOOD SOIL?

"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 207 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Kings 2:15-25, Psalm 25; Matthew 13:18-30)

GOOD SOIL?

“As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”  (Matthew 13:23 ESV)

In the 13th chapter of Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus teaches us via the parable of the sower. There is seed that does not live up to its potential. It falls on bad ground, on a path, or is overcome by weeds. Yet there is also seed that does live up to its potential. This seed has fallen on good soil.

● The SEED is the Word of God, the means by which the Lord teaches us His Law and Gospel.

● The SOIL refers to all in whom the Word takes root. By the grace of God, this means you and me.

● The SOWER is the One who plants His Word in our hearts, souls and minds.

♬ Thy strong Word be-speaks us righteous; Bright with Thine own holiness,

Glorious now, we press toward glory, And our lives our hopes confess.

Alleluia, alleluia!  Praise to Thee who light dost send!

Alleluia, alleluia!  Alleluia without end!

(Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #578 stanza 3)

Heavenly Father, thank Your for Your divine Word. Thank You for the Law that shows me my sins and my desperate need for Your forgiveness. And thank You for the Gospel that shows me Your great love in sending Jesus to be my Savior. May my life now bear abundant fruit as I live for You. 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, July 25, 2022 - HEARTFELT REPENTANCE

"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 206 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Kings 2:1-14, Psalm 24; Matthew 13:1-17)

HEARTFELT REPENTANCE

“And when Ahab heard those words, he tore his clothes and put sackcloth on his flesh and fasted and lay in sackcloth and went about dejectedly. And the word of the Lord came to Elijah the Tishbite, saying, ‘Have you seen how Ahab has humbled himself before me? Because he has humbled himself before me, I will not bring disaster in his days. . .’” (1 Kings 21:27-29 ESV)

King Ahab is guilty of listening to his wife Jezebel and disobeying God. In righteous anger, God condemns Ahab. When he hears about his doom, Ahab repents in very visible and genuine ways. God’s response gives us hope when we humbly and heartily repent of our sins. What good news this is!

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

What good news for repentant sinners!

Lord God, thank You for Your great mercy in forgiving my sin. Please keep me humble and repentant. 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, July 24, 2022 - HOW CAN I DO THIS GREAT WICKEDNESS?

"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 205 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Kings 1, Psalm 23; Matthew 12:38-50)

HOW CAN I DO THIS GREAT WICKEDNESS?

“How can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?”  (Genesis 39:9 ESV)

How do you handle temptation? Is your answer in line with Joseph or with Alfred P. Doolittle? Doolittle is a character who sings the following in the musical My Fair Lady:

Oh, you can walk the straight and narrow;

But with a little bit of luck You'll run amuck!

The gentle sex was made for man to marry,

To share his nest and see his food is cooked.

The gentle sex was made for man to marry-but

With a little bit of luck, With a little bit of luck,

You can have it all and not get hooked.

With a little bit...with a little bit...

With a little bit of luck you won't get hooked.

Potiphar’s wife was looking for a little bit of luck with Joseph. What she found was a faithful follower of almighty God whose response to her advances provides us words we would do well to use whenever temptation comes our way.

“How can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” 

No matter what the temptation may be, Joseph’s words work. They certainly worked for Joseph. Even though he was unjustly sent to prison, “the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.” (Genesis 39:21 ESV)

Here is a far better musical example to follow:

Let us ever walk with Jesus,

Follow His example pure,

Flee the world, which would deceive us

And to sin our souls allure.

Ever in His footsteps treading,

Body here, yet soul above,

Full of faith and hope and love,

Let us do the Father's bidding.

Faithful Lord, abide with me;

Savior, lead, I follow Thee.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006)

Heavenly Father, please strengthen me by means of Your Word and Sacraments to flee from temptation as Joseph did. Yes, protect me from the wicked, sinners and scoffers. When I do sin, please have mercy on me and forgive me for Jesus’ sake. 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, July 23, 2022 - THE UNFORGIVABLE SIN

"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 204 - (Today’s Bible readings: Song of Solomon 7:11-8:14, Psalm 22; Matthew 12:15-37)

THE UNFORGIVABLE SIN

“Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.” (Matthew 12:31 ESV)

“Pastor, I’m afraid I’ve committed the unforgivable sin.” My first response to that statement is to ask, “Do you have a pulse?” ...  “OK, let’s talk.”

The only sin that God will not forgive is the sin against the Holy Spirit. And if you are still living, there is hope. 

Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth and the life.” Either you believe Him or you don’t. If you do, the Holy Spirit has worked that faith in your heart. If you don’t, you have rejected (blasphemed) the Holy Spirit.

The antidote to the unforgivable sin is to worship weekly, attend the Lord’s Supper often, pray daily, and spend time in the Bible.

Holy Spirit, please keep saving faith in Christ burning brightly in my heart. Open my eyes today for opportunities to share Jesus with others.  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, July 22, 2022 - COME TO 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 203 - (Today’s Bible readings:  Song of Solomon 6:1-7:10, Psalm 21; Matthew 12:1-14)

COME TO JESUS

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”  (Matthew 11:28-30 ESV)

Jesus invites you and me who struggle with life’s challenges and burdens to find real and lasting rest in Him. He specifically calls us to follow His example of humility and faithful service. Whatever others may say about any negative aspects of following Jesus, He assures us that it is really easy for those who trust in Him.

♬ Just as I am, without one plea 

But that Thy blood was shed for me

And that Thou bidd'st me come to Thee, 

O Lamb of God, I come, I come. 

(Just As I Am, Without One Plea, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #570)

Holy Spirit, thank You for enabling me to accept Jesus’s gracious invitation. This day, and every day, remind me that it is far easier and more blessed to follow my Jesus, who has paid for all of my sins. 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, July 21, 2022 - REAL REST

"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 202 - (Today’s Bible readings: Song of Solomon 5; Psalm 20; Matthew 11:20-30)

REAL REST

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”  (Matthew 11:28-30 ESV)

Jesus invites all who struggle with life’s challenges and burdens to find real and lasting rest in Him. He specifically calls us to follow His example of humility and faithful service. Whatever others may say about any negative aspects of following Jesus, He assures us that it is really easy for those who trust in Him.

In this hymn stanza we are reminded of the how Jesus removes our burden of sin as He comes to us in His precious meal, the Lord’s Supper. 

♬ Weary am I and heavy laden,

With sin my soul is sore opprest;

Receive me graciously, and gladden

My heart, for I am now Thy guest.

Lord, may Thy body and Thy blood

Be for my soul the highest good! 

(I Come, O Savior, To Thy Table, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #618, Stanza 4)

Almighty God, thank You for the spiritual rest that  is mine in Jesus.  And Lord Jesus, may Your body and Your blood be for my soul Your highest good. 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, July 20, 2022 - ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ACCEPTABLE?

"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 201 - (Today’s Bible readings: Song of Solomon 4; Psalm 19; Matthew 11:1-19)

ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ACCEPTABLE? 

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart

    be acceptable in your sight,

    O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

(Psalm 19:14 ESV) 

Can people see that you are a follower of Jesus by the words you choose to utter? Do you say things that warn, encourage and strengthen others, as well as glorify God? What do you think God thinks of your words? 

And here is a tougher question. Do the things you think about, and perhaps meditate on, glorify God? Remember, He knows everything. What do you think God thinks about what you think about? 

More questions... Would you want God to be at your side when you carry out your daily activities? Does everything you think, do and say match up with His commandments? 

Remember, God gave us His commandments to protect you, to guide you, and to show you how much you need your Savior, Jesus. 

Lord Jesus, thank You for being my Rock and my Redeemer. May the Holy Spirit guide and direct my speaking, my thinking and my doing, so that I may glorify You and point others to You with every waking moment of my life. And please have mercy on me and forgive me when I fail You in any way. 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, July 19, 2022 - JESUS WELCOMES SINNERS

"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 200 - (Today’s Bible readings: Song of Solomon 2:8-3:11; Psalm 18:31-50; Matthew 10:26-42)

JESUS WELCOMES SINNERS

10 And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 12 But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 13 Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” (Matthew 9:10-13 ESV)

Jesus welcomes sinners. That’s what today’s lesson is all about. That is great news for this sinner. How about you? Do you thrill to this message as much as I do? Paul describes himself as the worst (chief) of sinners. Every honest man, woman or child must admit the same.

Here is another question: Would your church ever put up a sign like the one pictured here? And even if there is no sign, do visitors hear the clear Gospel message that sinners are welcome in your church? Here is another question: Do you welcome sinners in your life, people who need the forgiveness of Jesus just as desperately as you and I do?

The hymn writer gets at the heart of today’s devotion with these words:

Jesus sinners doth receive; 

Oh, may all this saying ponder

Who in sin's delusions live 

And from God and heaven wander!

Here is hope for all who grieve– 

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

I, a sinner, come to Thee 

With a penitent confession;

Savior, mercy show to me 

Grant for all my sins remission.

Let these words my soul relieve: 

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

(Jesus Sinners Doth Receive, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006,  #609 1 and 4)

Thank You, Jesus. 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, July 17, 2022 - HEALED BUT STILL BLIND

"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 198 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ecclesiastes 12; Psalm 17; Matthew 9:32-10:4)

HEALED BUT STILL BLIND

And as Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, “Have mercy on us, Son of David.” When he entered the house, the blind men came to him, and Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to him, “Yes, Lord.” Then he touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith be it done to you.” And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, “See that no one knows about it.” But they went away and spread his fame through all that district. (Matthew 9:27-31 ESV)

The blind men receive the mercy they seek and they can see again. Can you imagine the overwhelming joy they must have experienced? There was only one thing Jesus expected of them in return; ‘Don’t tell anyone.’ Of course, we can understand how difficult that stern warning was. They couldn’t keep quiet about what the Lord had done for them.

We, too, have had our sight restored, our spiritual sight that is. The Holy Spirit has caused us to see that Jesus is our Savior and Lord. The result is that we poor miserable sinners have had all of our sins washed away and are promised eternal life in heaven. While Jesus told the formerly blind men not to tell anyone what He had done, He tells us just the opposite.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8 ESV)

The sad fact is that while many have been given the sight of faith, they are still blind to Christ’s command to share His story with others. May the Lord bless you today as you look for opportunities to share His love and His loving story with others.

Dearest Lord Jesus, thank You for healing my spiritual blindness and making me part of Your family. Please help me today to share You in some way with others. In Your saving name. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion table this morning!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), 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, July 16, 2022 - WISE TO THE RIGHT, FOOLS TO THE LEFT

 

"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 197 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ecclesiastes 10-11, Psalm 16; Matthew 9:14-31)

WISE TO THE RIGHT, FOOLS TO THE LEFT 

“A wise man's heart inclines him to the right,

    but a fool's heart to the left.

Even when the fool walks on the road, he lacks sense,

    and he says to everyone that he is a fool.” (Ecclesiastes 10:2-3 ESV) 

Foolishness abounds in this world. There are so many examples. Solomon warns us against being foolish because fools lack sense. David warned against being the worst of fools: 

“The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.” (Psalm 53:1 ESV) 

Trust in the Lord. Look for opportunities to share His wisdom, mercy and grace, all found in Jesus!

Jesus out it this way: “Everyone who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”    (Matthew 7:24)

The wise man built his house upon the rock,

The wise man built his house upon the rock,

The wise man built his house upon the rock,

And the rains came tumbling down! 

The rains came down and the floods came up,

The rains came down and the floods came up,

The rains came down and the floods came up,

And the house on the rock stood firm. 

The foolish man built his house upon the sand,

The foolish man built his house upon the sand,

The foolish man built his house upon the sand,

And the rains came tumbling down! 

The rains came down and the floods came up,

The rains came down and the floods came up,

The rains came down and the floods came up,

And the house on the sand went SPLAT! 

So build your life on the Lord Jesus Christ,

So build your life on the Lord Jesus Christ,

So build your life on the Lord Jesus Christ,

And the blessings will come tumbling down. 

The blessings will come down as the prayers go up,

The blessings will come down as the prayers go up,

The blessings will come down as the prayers go up,

So build your life on the Lord! 

Heavenly Father, please me the wisdom to build my life on THE rock, my Lord Jesus. In His 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, July 15, 2022 - SALT AND LIGHT

"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 196 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ecclesiastes 9, Psalm 15; Matthew 9:1-13)

SALT AND LIGHT

“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. 

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16 ESV)

Salt had two purposes in the Middle East of the first century. It was used to preserve food and as a flavor enhancer. Jesus is using this analogy to impress upon His followers the fact that we are to preserve and enhance the lives of those around us. 

Many people are living lives that are devoid of meaning and direction. As God’s people we get to preserve and enhance life in Jesus’ name. And how do we do this? Listen to Jesus again:

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”  (vs. 16)

Lord Jesus, Light of the world, thank You for shining the light of Your salvation into my life. Now please use me to reflect Your light to others around me. 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, July 14, 2022 - THE REASON FOR...

"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 195 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ecclesiastes 8, Psalm 14; Matthew 8:14-34)

THE REASON FOR...

They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one. (Psalm 14:3  ESV)

What is the reason for Christmas, Good Friday, Easter and your baptism? These momentous events occurred because “no one does good, not even one.”  All of us need a Savior from our sins.

Jesus was born on Christmas, died on Good Friday and rose on Easter Sunday so that sinners like you and me could be saved. And then there is your baptism when your personal lack of goodness was completely washed away.

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.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #590 stanza 1)

Heavenly Father, I admit that I am a sinner. Thank you for Christmas, Good Friday, Easter, and my baptism. Please bless when I am in church and hear my pastor declare that all of my sins have been forgiven. 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!