Monday, January 1, 2024 - Happy New Year and Happy Eighth Day of Christmas!

 

"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)

Monday, January 1, 2024 - Day 1 (Genesis 1-2 & Matthew 1)

 

Happy New Year and Happy Eighth Day of Christmas! 

One of the great blessings God grants us year in and year out is the opportunity to spend time in His Word, the Bible. Clicking on http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf will give you a chart for reading the entire Bible in one year. This year's chart will suggest one reading from the Old Testament and one reading from the New Testament each day. 

How best to begin 2024 - "In the beginning God..." (Genesis 1:1a ESV) 

 ♬ With the Lord begin your task; Jesus will direct it. 

For His aid and counsel ask; Jesus will perfect it. 

Ev’ry morn with Jesus rise, And when day is ended, 

In His name then close your eyes; Be to Him commended. 

(Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #869) 

New Years Day is also the Eighth Day of Christmas

Eight Maids a-Milking 

(8 Beatitudes)

Seven Swans a-Swimming 

(7 Gifts of the Spirit)

Six Geese a Laying 

(Six days of Creation)

Five Golden Rings 

(The Pentateuch... first 5 books of the Bible)

Four Calling Birds 

(The 4 Gospels... Matthew, Mark, Luke and John)

Three French Hens 

(The Holy Trinity... Father, Son and Holy Spirit)

Two Turtle Doves 

(The Old and New Testaments)

A Partridge in a Pear Tree. 

(OUR LORD JESUS)

Link to the song  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qySAkZwLrOA

Why maids a-milking on the Eighth Day of Christmas?

On this day we remember the eight Beatitudes found in Matthew 5:3-12.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. 

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. 

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. 

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  (Matthew 5:3-10)

This looks like a pretty good list of New Year’s resolutions. May you be blessed as you “work” at these by prayer, meditation on the Word, and by helping others in the name of the Lord.

Dear Holy Spirit, please work in my life in this new year so that I may be blessed by the Lord. Please make my heart pure as I hunger and thirst after Your righteous ways. Above all, remind me of sin and of my need for Jesus my Savior. Amen.

0 Lord Christ, our Savior dear,

Be Thou ever near us.

Grant us now a glad new year.

Amen, Jesus, hear us! (Lutheran Service Book, CPH #390)

Pastor David Paape  

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

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pd

Sunday, December 31, 2023 - THE SEVENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS

 

"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)

Sunday, December 31, 2023 - Day 365 

 

THE SEVENTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS

Seven Swans a-Swimming 

(7 Gifts of the Spirit)

Six Geese a Laying

(Six days of Creation)

Five Golden Rings

(The Pentateuch... first 5 books of the Bible)

Four Calling Birds

(The 4 Gospels... Matthew, Mark, Luke and John)

Three French Hens

(The Holy Trinity... Father, Son and Holy Spirit)

Two Turtle Doves

(The Old and New Testaments)

A Partridge in a Pear Tree. 

(OUR LORD JESUS)

Link to the song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qySAkZwLrOA

Why Seven Swans a-swimming on the 7th Day of Christmas?

Seven Swans a-Swimming represent the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit:

3 For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, 5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. 6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; 7 if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; 8 the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. (Romans 12:3-9 ESV)

As you can see in these verses from Romans, we Christians are called upon to fight the naturally human tendency to think more about ourselves than we should. We all have a role to play in God’s plan, a role for which He has provided you with just the right gift(s). We are all in this together.  As we prepare to step into 2024, may we do so with a determination to make better use of our God-given gifts for His glory and in His service.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your undeserved mercy in this past year. Yes, thank You for forgiving my sins and setting my feet upon Your path.  In 2024, please help me to better use my God-given gifts and abilities to Your glory. Amen.

Have a blessed Seventh Day of Christmas!

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning.

Pastor David Paape

Saturday, December 30, 2023 - THE SIXTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS

 

"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)

Saturday, December 30, 2023 - Day 364  - (Today’s Bible readings: Malachi 3; Psalm 149; Revelation 21:9-22:5)

 

THE SIXTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS

Six Geese a Laying 

(Six days of Creation)

Five Golden Rings

(The Pentateuch... first 5 books of the Bible)

Four Calling Birds

(The 4 Gospels... Matthew, Mark, Luke and John)

Three French Hens

(The Holy Trinity... Father, Son and Holy Spirit)

Two Turtle Doves

(The Old and New Testaments)

A Partridge in a Pear Tree. 

(OUR LORD JESUS)

Link to the song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qySAkZwLrOA

Why Six Geese a-laying on the Sixth Day of Christmas? 

Six Geese a-Laying represent the six days of creation:

In the very beginning of the Bible we read:

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth...  And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day. (Genesis 1:1, 3-5 ESV)

God continued to create during the next 5 days. On day 6 He created the crown of His creation:

Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness... So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." (Genesis 1:26-27 ESV)

And how did He do?

And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. (Genesis 1:31 ESV)

Heavenly Father, help me to take comfort in the fact that You created everything, including me. May I celebrate and defend Your precious gift of life! In the saving name of Jesus. Amen.

Have a blessed Fifth Day of Christmas!

Pastor David Paape

Friday, December 29, 2023 - THE FIFTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS

 

"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)

Friday, December 29, 2023 - Day 363  - (Today’s Bible readings: Malachi 2; Psalm 148; Revelation 20:11-21:8)

THE FIFTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS

On the fifth day of Christmas my true love sent to me:

Five Golden Rings

(The Pentateuch... first 5 books of the Bible)

Four Calling Birds

       (The 4 Gospels... Matthew, Mark, Luke and John)

Three French Hens

(The Holy Trinity... Father, Son and Holy Spirit)

Two Turtle Doves 

(The Old and New Testaments)

A Partridge in a Pear Tree

     . (OUR LORD JESUS)

Link to the song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qySAkZwLrOA

Why four Five Golden Rings on the Fifth Day of Christmas? Five Golden Rings are symbolic of the Pentateuch, the first five Books of the Old Testament: Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy.

What makes these books special is that, while they were written by Moses, they were inspired by the Holy Spirit and, therefore, are the very Word of God, as are the other 34 books of the Old Testament and the 27 books of the New Testament. Jesus Himself often referred to Moses:

“And as for the dead being raised, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God spoke to him, saying, ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’?”  (Mark 12:26 ESV)

Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing the history of Your people and Your plan of salvation on the pages of the Pentateuch. Holy Spirit, please guide me and direct my faith as I read the Bible. Grant me the desire and the discipline to read Your Word on a daily basis in 2024. Amen.

Have a blessed Fifth Day of Christmas!

Pastor David Paape

Thursday, December 28, 2023 - THE FOURTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS

"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)

Thursday, December 28, 2023 - Day 362  - (Today’s Bible readings: Malachi 1; Psalm 147; Revelation 20:1-10)

THE FOURTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS

♬ On the fourth day of Christmas

my true love sent to me:

Four Calling Birds

Three French Hens

Two Turtle Doves

and a Partridge in a Pear Tree.

Link to the song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qySAkZwLrOA

Why four Calling Birds on the Fourth Day of Christmas? Some say that the Four Calling Birds represent the four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

The beginning of John’s Gospel captures the focus of all four Gospels, namely Jesus our Savior. 

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”  (John 1:1-5 ESV)

Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Yourself to me by means of the first four books of the New Testament. Thank You for shining the light of forgiveness into my life of darkness. Amen.

Have a blessed Fourth Day of Christmas!

Pastor David Paape

Wednesday, December 27, 2023 - THE THIRD DAY OF CHRISTMAS

"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)'

Wednesday, December 27, 2023 - Day 361  - (Today’s Bible readings: Zechariah 14; Psalm 146; Luke 2:22-40)

THE THIRD DAY OF CHRISTMAS

THE SONG

 ♬ On the third day of Christmas

my true love sent to me:

Three French Hens

Two Turtle Doves

and a Partridge in Pear Tree.

Link to the song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qySAkZwLrOA

Why Three French Hens on the third day of Christmas? Some say the three French hens represent the three theological virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity. These were given by God and poured into our hearts. The three hens are also symbolic of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Almighty God, holy blessed Trinity, thank You for being our Creator, Redeemer and Sanctifier. Holy God, I praise Your name. Amen.

Have a blessed Third Day of Christmas!

 

Pastor David Paape

Tuesday, December 26, 2023 - THE SECOND DAY OF CHRISTMAS

"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, December 26, 2023 - Day 360  - (Today’s Bible readings: Zechariah 13; Psalm 145; Acts 6:8-10)

THE SECOND DAY OF CHRISTMAS

Today’s devotion begins our focus on the Twelve Days of Christmas. Since Christmas Day was the first day of Christmas, today is the second day of Christmas of Christmas. 

THE SONG

 ♬ On the second day of Christmas

my true love sent to me:

Two Turtle Doves

and a Partridge in a Pear Tree.

Link to the song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qySAkZwLrOA

Why Two Turtle Doves on the second day of Christmas? Some believe that the two doves represent the two parts of the Bible: Old Testament and New Testament. The Partridge in a Pear Tree represents Jesus, which is why this is part of each of the Twelve Days of Christmas. 

From Old Testament to New Testament, the Gospel is the message that predominates throughout the Bible. Thus the Bible is Gospel-centered, focusing on the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus and the salvation of all and any who trust in Him.

Almighty God, I thank You for revealing Yourself to the world in both parts of the Bible, the Old and New Testaments. What blessings You have given sinners like me in the love of Jesus that comes to us from His cross! Be with me and guide me today, in the name of my God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

Have a blessed Second Day of Christmas!

Pastor David Paape

Monday, December 25, 2023 - IT'S THE BOY!

"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)

Monday, December 25, 2023 - Day 359  - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 7:10-14; Psalm 110:1-4; 1 John 4:7-16, Matthew 1:18-25)

IT’S THE BOY!

18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. (Matthew 1:18-25)

How exciting when a baby is born! Parents, grandparents and other relatives are thrilled when a baby comes into the world. It’s a girl, or it’s a boy is printed on banners and cards announcing the happy event.

There were no banners over the stable where Jesus was born on the first Christmas. If there had been, it would have said IT’S A BOY. Actually it could have read IT’S THE BOY, the One long promised, Who would save the world. In fact, the name Jesus means “God saves!” Look at how some of our dearest Christmas carols capture this fact:

♬ Peace on earth and mercy mild, 

       God and sinners reconciled!

♬ No more let sins and sorrows grow 

        nor thorns infest the ground; 

He comes to make His blessings flow 

        far as the curse is found.

♬ Come to Bethlehem and see 

        Him whose birth the angels sing;

Come, adore on bended knee 

        Christ the Lord, the newborn King. 

Gloria in excelsis Deo;  Gloria in excelsis Deo. 

♬ Mild He leaves His throne on high, 

        born that man no more may die;

Born to raise the sons of earth; 

        born to give them second birth.

  Hark! the herald angels sing,

       "Glory to the newborn King!"

♬ God's Son for a gift

        has been sent you this night.  

To be your Redeemer,

        your Joy and Delight.

Be near me, Lord Jesus!. I ask Thee to stay 

Close by me forever and love me, I pray. 

Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, 

And take us to heaven to live with Thee there. Amen.

“See” you in church this morning!

Pastor David Paape

Sunday, December 24, 2023 - THE HOLY NIGHT

 

"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)

Sunday, December 24, 2023 - Day 358  - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 7:10-14; Psalm 110:1-4; 1 John 4:7-16, Matthew 1:18-25)

 

THE HOLY NIGHT

8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”  (Luke 2:8-14 ESV)

Tonight is Christmas Eve, THE HOLY NIGHT, the night of our dear Savior’s birth. Do you remember the account of the shepherds? God chose to announce the birth of His only begotten Son to common people, simple shepherds, emphasizing the fact that Jesus came for all people, from all backgrounds. On January 6th we will be celebrating the arrival of the Wise Men, reminding us that THE GIFT of CHRISTmas is for ALL nations too.

These words are, therefore, meant for you! "Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” The angels announced the birth of Christ YOUR Lord. So...

Come to Bethlehem and see

Him Whose birth the angels sing;

Come, adore on bended knee,

Christ the Lord, the newborn King.

Gloria in excelsis Deo!

Gloria in excelsis Deo!

The hymn echos the words of Luke:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”  (Luke 2:14 ESV)

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,

It is the night of our dear Saviour’s birth.

Long lay the world in sin and error pining,

‘Til He appear’d and the soul felt its worth.

A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,

For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.

Fall on your knees! O hear the angel voices!

O night divine, O night when Christ was born;

O night divine, O night, O night Divine.

Because of THE HOLY NIGHT, we can confidently pray this prayer:

Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay

Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.

Bless all the dear children in thy tender care,

And take us to heaven, to live with Thee there. Amen.

May almighty God bless your worship of Jesus as you attend church on this HOLY NIGHT!

Pastor David Paape

Saturday, December 23, 2023 - LOOK TO 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)

Saturday, December 23, 2023 - Day 357  - (Today’s Bible readings: Zechariah 12; Psalm 144; Revelation 19:1-21)

LOOK TO THE LORD

“The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season. You open your hand; you satisfy the desire of every living thing.” (Psalm 145:15-16 ESV) 

These words are often used as a meal prayer, and rightly so. As we prepare to eat, it is God-pleasing to remember the One who provides our food.

Do you remember where your daily blessings come from? He opens His hand, and all you need is yours and you are satisfied. Are you satisfied? The key is to remember that His greatest blessings are found at the Baptismal font, the Communion table and in the Word! The hymn writer well expresses this satisfaction.

All that I am and have, 

Thy gifts so free,

In joy, in grief, through life, 

Dear Lord, for Thee!

And when thy face I see, 

My ransomed soul shall be

Through all eternity 

Something for Thee.

Heavenly Father, thank You for satisfying my needs. As I look to You, may I remember Your blessings of forgiveness and heaven. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Friday, December 22, 2023 - JESUS IS COMING

"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)

Friday, December 22, 2023 - Day 356  - (Today’s Bible readings: Zechariah 11; Psalm 143; Revelation 18:1-24)

JESUS IS COMING

And he (John the Baptist) went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’” (Luke 3:3-4)

John the Baptist was sent to prepare the way for Jesus, to let people know that the promised One, the Messiah, was coming.

In Advent we sing hymns like the one below reminding us that Jesus did come to bless all who repent and believe, and that He will do the same again on the last day.

Once He came in blessing,

All our sins redressing;

Came in likeness lowly,

Son of God most holy;

Bore the cross to save us;

Hope and freedom gave us.

Come, then, O Lord Jesus,

From our sins release us.

Keep our hearts believing,

That we, grace receiving,

Ever may confess You

Till in heav'n we bless You. Amen.

(“Once He Came in Blessing,” Lutheran Service Book #333, 1&4)

Pastor David Paape

Thursday, December 21, 2023 - RELEASE

"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)

Thursday, December 21, 2023 - Day 355  - (Today’s Bible readings: Zechariah 10 Psalm 142; Revelation 17:1-18)

RELEASE

Bring me out of prison, that I may give thanks to your name!

 (Psalm 142:7 ESV)

David cries out to the Lord, His refuge, and pleads for release from the prison of persecution. In the reading from Acts, Peter is miraculously delivered from an actual prison. 

And behold, an angel of the Lord stood next to him, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands.  (Acts 12:7 ESV)

Similarly, Jesus proclaimed the reason He came down to earth that first Christmas with these prophetic words:

The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.  (Isaiah 61:1 ESV)

You can rejoice that Jesus has released you from the prison of sin, death and the devil!

He comes the prisoners to release,

In Satan's bondage held.

The gates of brass before Him burst,

The iron fetters yield.

(Hark the glad sound!  Lutheran Service Book #349 - 2)

Thank You Lord Jesus for releasing me from my self made prison of sin. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - IS YOU JOY IN CHRIST SHOWING?

 

"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)

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - Day 354  - (Today’s Bible readings: Zechariah 9; Psalm 141; Revelation 16:1-21)

IS YOU JOY IN CHRIST SHOWING? 

Shout for joy to God, all the earth;

sing the glory of his name;

give to him glorious praise!

Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds!

So great is your power that your enemies come cringing to you.” (Psalm 66:1-3 ESV) 

The Psalmist encourages his readers to “shout for joy to God.” The reason for this joy are the awesome deeds of God. 

Many people are looking for joy, peace and happiness without Jesus. But Jesus is the only One whose awesome deeds involve the forgiveness of your sins and the promise of eternal life. And this gives you real, true, deep down joy.

Do not confuse Christian joy with mere happiness. Joy is far deeper and can be present even in the darkest of hours. Paul reflects this truth with these words first given to the Christians in Philippi: “Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”  (Philippians 8:3 ESV)

1. Joy to the world, the Lord is come!  

        Let earth receive her King;      

Let every heart prepare Him room, 

        And heaven and nature sing,

And heaven and nature sing, 

        And heaven and heaven and nature sing.

2. Joy to the world, the Savior reigns!  

        Let men their songs employ,

While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains, 

        repeat the sounding joy,

Repeat the sounding joy, 

        repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

3. No more let sins and sorrows grow 

        nor thorns infest the ground;

He comes to make His blessings flow 

        far as the curse is found,

Far as the curse is found, 

        far as, far as the curse is found.

4. He rules the world with truth and grace 

        and makes the nations prove

The glories of His righteousness 

        and wonders of His love,

And wonders of His love, 

        and wonders, wonders of His love.

Lord God, thank You for the joy of knowing Your mercy, forgiveness and promise of heaven! Please use me today to share the joy of Jesus with others today. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Tuesday, December 19, 2023 - GOD GROWS HIS CHURCH

 

"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, December 19, 2023 - Day 353  - (Today’s Bible readings: Zechariah 8; Psalm 140; Revelation 15:1-8)

GOD GROWS HIS CHURCH

21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord...26(b) For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. (Acts 11:21-26 ESV)

The challenges facing the Early Church were many, including persecution and martyrdom. However, the Lord was working, and people were coming to saving faith in Jesus. 

21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, 

     and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 

Barnabas encouraged God’s people to remain faithful to the Lord.

How are you doing? 

Are you faithful to the Lord?

If so, does you life show it?

 And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. 

The name Christian means little Christ, follower of Jesus.

Fellow Christian, are you living up to your name?

1. Our Father, by whose name 

    All fatherhood is known,

    Who dost in love proclaim 

    Each family Thine own.

    Bless Thou all parents, guarding well,

    With constant love as sentinel,

    The homes in which Thy people dwell.

2. O Christ, Thyself a child 

    Within an earthly home,

    With heart still undefiled 

    Thou didst to manhood come.

    Our children bless in ev'ry place

    That they may all behold Thy face

    And knowing Thee may grow in grace.

3. O Spirit who dost bind 

    Our hearts in unity,

    And teachest  us to find 

    The love from self set free.

    In all our hearts such love increase

    That ev'ry home by this release

    May be the dwelling place of peace.

   (“Our Father, by Whose Name,” Lutheran Service Book 863)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of saving faith in Jesus, my Savior. Help me to remain faithful and to follow Your command to share Your love with others.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Monday, December 18, 2023 - 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)

Monday, December 18, 2023 - Day 352  - (Today’s Bible readings: : Zechariah 7; Psalm 139; Revelation 14:1-20)

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.

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

Yes, life is a precious gift from God. And this makes you a precious, blood-bought, baptized, forgiven, heaven-bound, gifted child of 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. 

Pastor David Paape

Sunday, December 17, 2023 - PRAY FOR BODY AND SOUL

 

"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)

Sunday, December 17, 2023 - Day 351  - (Today’s Bible readings: Zechariah 6; Psalm 138; Revelation 13:11-18)

PRAY FOR BODY AND SOUL

“2 Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. 3 For I rejoiced greatly when the brothers came and testified to your truth, as indeed you are walking in the truth. 4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.”  (3 John 2-4 ESV)

John is writing to Gaius, a faithful leader and worker in the church. The example of prayer for fellow Christians and fellow workers is one worth emulating. And look at what we learn from John’s prayer.  Gaius is walking in the truth, God’s truth, the Gospel truth. So John prays that all may go well for Gaius and that God would grant him good health. But look at his point of comparison: “as it goes well with your soul.”

Could someone pray that prayer for you? Are things going well for your soul? If you are a repentant sinner who is trusting in Jesus for forgiveness and salvation, then things are going well for your soul.

   4. O holy Child of Bethlehem, 

Descend to us, we pray;

Cast out our sin, and enter in, 

Be born in us today.

We hear the Christmas Angels, 

The great glad tidings tell;

O come to us, abide with us, 

Our Lord Immanuel!

("O Little Town of Bethlehem,"  Lutheran Service Book #361-4)

Dearest Lord Jesus, thank You saving me by dying on the cross for me. May it be Your will to watch over me so that things may go well for me, including good health. As I pray this prayer for myself, I ask You to grant these same blessings for _____________. Please help Your people to continue to walk in Your truth. Amen. 

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

Saturday, December 16, 2023 - 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)

Saturday, December 16, 2023 - Day 350  - (Today’s Bible readings: Zechariah 5; Psalm 137; Revelation 13:1-10)

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 have often shared with the church members I have been privileged to serve

:

Always, always, always STAY CLOSE TO YOUR JESUS. 

Our text for today offers us another version:

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

   1. Jesus, lead Thou on till our rest is won;  

And although the way be cheerless,

We will follow calm and fearless.  

Guide us by Thy hand to our fatherland.

   2. If the way be drear, if the foe be near, 

Let not faithless fears o'ertake us;

Let not faith and hope forsake us; 

For through many a woe to our home we go.

   3. When we seek relieve from a long-felt grief;  

When temptations come alluring,

Make us patient and enduring;  

Show us that bright shore where we weep no more.

   4. Jesus, lead Thou on till our rest is won.  

Heavenly Leader still direct us,

Still support, control, protect us, 

Till we safely stand in our fatherland.

(“Jesus, Lead Thou On,” Lutheran  Service Book 718)

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. 

“See” you in church tomorrow morning!

Pastor David Paape