Wednesday, March 1, 2023 - PEACE LIKE A RIVER

"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, March 1, 2023 - Day 60 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 66:1-6; Psalm 55; Galatians 5:16-6:5)

PEACE LIKE A RIVER

“For thus says the Lord: “Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river.” (Isaiah 66:1 ESV) 

The Lord gives us a most comforting and peaceful picture of heaven. “Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river.”

While this peace will be complete and eternal in the presence of God, His angels, and all believers, we can have a divine measure of peace right now. This peace comes from  trusting in our Jesus for forgiveness and comfort each day.

1 When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,

   When sorrows like sea billows roll;

   Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,

   It is well, it is well with my soul.

   (Refrain:) It is well (it is well),

    with my soul (with my soul),

    It is well, it is well with my soul.

2 Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,

    Let this blest assurance control,

    That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate,

    And hath shed His own blood for my soul. (Refrain)

3 My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought!

   My sin, not in part but the whole,

   Is nailed to His cross, and I bear it no more,

   Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! (Refrain)

4 And, Lord haste the day, when my faith shall be sight,

   The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;

   The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,

   Even so, it is well with my soul. (Refrain)

   (When Peace, Like a River, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #776)

Click this link to hear this comforting hymn:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHe_qmo3gX4

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of eternal peace. Please grant me peace here on earth as Your Spirit reminds me of the wondrous thought that I bear my sin no more because Your Son bore it for me on the cross. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 28, 2023 - LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR

"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, February 28, 2023 - Day 59 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 65:17-25; Psalm 54; Galatians 5:1-15)

LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR 

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Galatians 5:13-14 ESV) 

We who have been freed from the consequences of our sins by means of Christ’s forgiveness are called to love our neighbors by serving them. What would this kind of other-focused service look like? Paul answers that question a few verses later.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,  faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23 ESV) 

I believe that the love of Christ, and only the love of Christ, is the answer to all of the name calling and outright hatred we are bombarded with every day in the news and social media by people of all stripes. As followers of Jesus Christ, you and are I are in a unique position whereby the Lord can use us to change things one person at a time. We get to do this by reflecting these Jesus traits...

   ● love

   ● joy

   ● peace

   ● patience

   ● kindness

   ● goodness

   ● faithfulness

   ● gentleness and

   ● self-control!

WE’RE ALL HUMAN. WE’RE ALL BROKEN. 

WE ALL NEED JESUS and His LOVE!

1. Love in Christ is strong and living, 

Binding faithful hearts in one;

Love in Christ is true and giving, 

May His will in us be done.

2. Love is patient and forbearing, 

Clothed in Christ’s humility,

Gentle, selfless, kind, and caring, 

Reaching out in charity.

3. Love in Christ abides forever, 

Fainting not when ills attend;

Love, forgiving and forgiven, 

Shall endure until life’s end.

(“Love in Christ Is Strong and Living,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #706) 

Heavenly Father, please have mercy on our hate-filled world. Please use those who bear Your name to reach out to our neighbors in our communities, nation and around the world with the life-changing and soul-saving love of Jesus Christ. In His holy name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 27, 2023 - WE DESPERATELY NEED HELP

"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, February 27, 2023 - Day 58 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 65:1-16; Psalm 53; Galatians 4:21-31)

WE DESPERATELY NEED HELP

They have all fallen away;

    together they have become corrupt;

there is none who does good,

    not even one. (Psalm 53:3 ESV) 

Decades ago this question took me by surprise. “What do you call a sin?” The questioner didn’t believe that she was a sinner. Perhaps she was comparing herself to others. Whatever methods we may employ to minimize our sins, we can do nothing to minimize our passage for today. “There is none that does good, not even one.”

We desperately need help, which is precisely why Jesus came down to earth in the first place.

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)

We are great sinners. And Jesus is our great Savior!

1. Chief of sinners though I be,  

Jesus shed His blood for me;

Died that I might live on high, 

Lives that I might never die.

As the branch is to the vine, 

I am His and He is mine.

2. Oh the height of Jesus' love!  

Higher than the heav'ns above,

Deeper than the depths of sea, 

Lasting as eternity.

Love that found me -  wondrous thought!  

Found me when I sought Him not.

4. Chief of sinners though I be, 

Christ is all in all to me;

All my wants to Him are known, 

All my sorrows are His own.

He sustains the hidden life  

Safe with Him from earthly strife.

5. O my Savior, help afford 

By Your Spirit and Your Word!

When my wayward heart would stray, 

Keep me in the narrow way;

Grace in time of need supply 

While I live and when I die.

(“Chief of Sinners Though I Be,” Lutheran Service Book #611)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being the Savior of this sinner. Remind me daily of how important it is to repent of my sins and believe in You as my personal Lord and Savior. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 25, 2023 - GOD ACTS FOR 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)

Saturday, February 25, 2023 - Day 56 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 63:15-64:12; Psalm 52; Galatians 4:1-20)

GOD ACTS FOR YOU

“From of old no one has heard or perceived by the ear, no eye has seen a God besides you, who acts for those who wait for him.” Isaiah 64:4 ESV)  

Isaiah’s evaluation of the uniqueness of our God is completely accurate. On Ash Wednesday we began our annual Lenten journey to Mt. Calvary. It is there, from His cross of suffering, that Jesus shows you that He is fully for you as He declares “It is finished.” (John 19:30) 

● For the believer in Christ, sin, death and the devil were finished, defeated, and crushed once and for all!

● For the believer in Christ, the gates of heaven are now open and waiting.

● For the believer in Christ, reconciliation with God has been accomplished.

  What language shall I borrow

  To thank Thee, dearest Friend,

  For this Thy dying sorrow,

  Thy pity without end?

  O make me Thine for ever;

  And should I fainting be,

  Lord, let me never, never

  Outlive my love for Thee. Amen.

  (O Sacred Head, Now Wounded, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #450 stanza 5)

“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 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 24, 2023 - WHAT WONDROUS LOVE IS THIS

"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, February 24, 2023 - Day 55 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 63:1-14; Psalm 51; Galatians 3:10-29)

WHAT WONDROUS LOVE IS THIS 

“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree’” (Galatians 3:13 ESV) 

This is the heart of the Christian faith. Jesus took our place and redeemed us from the curse that should follow our breaking of God’s Law. We have disobeyed almighty God, and His response was to send His only begotten Son to redeem us. He has bought us back from sin, death and the devil. What wondrous love this truly is!

What wondrous love is this, 

O my soul, O my soul! 

What wondrous love is this, O my soul! 

What wondrous love is this

That caused the Lord of bliss 

To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul, 

To bear the dreadful curse for my soul!

(“What Wondrous Love is This,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #543, stanza 1)

Lord Jesus, thank You for bearing the dreadful curse I deserve so the I could be redeemed. May I remember Your wondrous love every day of my life. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 23, 2023 - GO AND TELL

"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, February 23, 2023 - Day 54 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 61, Psalm 49, Galatians 2:1–14) 

GO AND TELL

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

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

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

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

“What does such baptizing with water indicate?

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

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

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

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

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 22, 2023 - ASH WEDNESDAY

"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, February 22, 2023 - Day 53 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:12-19; Psalm 51; 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:10; Matthew 6:1-6)

ASH WEDNESDAY

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

1 Have mercy on me, O God,

    according to your steadfast love;

according to your abundant mercy

    blot out my transgressions.

2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,

    and cleanse me from my sin!

3 For I know my transgressions,

    and my sin is ever before me.

4 Against you, you only, have I sinned

    and done what is evil in your sight,

so that you may be justified in your words

    and blameless in your judgment.

5 Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity,

    and in sin did my mother conceive me.

6 Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being,

    and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;

    wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

8 Let me hear joy and gladness;

    let the bones that you have broken rejoice.

9 Hide your face from my sins,

    and blot out all my iniquities.

10 Create in me a clean heart, O God,

    and renew a right spirit within me.

11 Cast me not away from your presence,

    and take not your Holy Spirit from me.

12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation,

    and uphold me with a willing spirit.

13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways,

    and sinners will return to you.

14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God,

    O God of my salvation,

    and my tongue will sing aloud of your righteousness.

15 O Lord, open my lips,

    and my mouth will declare your praise.

16 For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it;

    you will not be pleased with a burnt offering.

17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit;

    a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

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

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 21, 2023 - PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

 

"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, February 21, 2023 - Day 52 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 61:1-11; Psalm 49; Galatians 2:1-14)

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”  (Jeremiah 29:11-13 ESV)

Everyone would like to have a future filled with good things and hope. In these verses God is promising that His children, held captive in Babylon, will return to their homeland ... in seventy years! 

The point for us is this: be patient. God has your welfare in mind. We see that clearly displayed on Jesus’ cross where He paid the price for all of your sins and thereby guarantees a future in heaven for all believers. 

We are also encouraged to reach out to God in the middle of the circumstances in our own lives that hold us captive (addictions, suffering, fear, disappointment and failure). God promises to hear and to be there for all who look to Him.

“Fulfill Your plans for us, O Lord, and guide us to make plans that agree with Your will. Teach us to trust Your decisions for our lives; through Jesus Christ. Amen.”  (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 1253)

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 20, 2023 - NO OTHER GOSPEL

"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, February 20, 2023 - Day 51 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 60:1-22; Psalm 48; Galatians 1:1-24)

NO OTHER GOSPEL 

“I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9 ESV) 

Paul is warning us about one of the basic facts of life–there are different gospels. Of course, as he points out, there is only one TRUE Gospel? Any other religious idea does not offer forgiveness and eternal life. Every other approach to God is based on man’s attempt to curry favor by means of good works – what we attempt to do to please God. THE Gospel is based on what Christ has done on the cross for us, cleansing us of all sin. 

The Law reveals the guilt of sin

And makes us conscience-stricken;

But then the Gospel enters in

The sinful soul to quicken.

Come to the cross, trust Christ, and live;

The Law no peace can ever give,

No comfort and no blessing.

(Salvation Unto Us Has Come, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #555, stanza 8)

Almighty God, thank You for using Paul to warn us against false gospels. Protect me from such harmful deceit by keeping me grounded in THE soul-saving Gospel of my Lord Jesus Christ. In His precious name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 19, 2023 - HOPE-FILLED GRIEVING

"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, February 19, 2023 - Day 50 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 59:16-21; Psalm 47; John 21:20-25)

HOPE-FILLED GRIEVING

“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 ESV) 

What comfort grieving Christians find in these words of Paul! It is ok to cry when we lose a loved one because we still have hope:

”that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.” 

We miss our loved one, but we also have the peace and comfort that comes from knowing that they are in heaven:

“For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.”

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your physical resurrection, and Your promise that all who trust in You for forgiveness will also rise again to eternal 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 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 18, 2023 - HELPING OTHERS IN JESUS’ 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)

Saturday, February 18, 2023 - Day 49 - (Today’s Bible readings:  Isaiah 59:1-15; Psalm 45; John 21:1-19)

HELPING OTHERS IN JESUS’ NAME

“Is not this the fast that I choose:

    to loose the bonds of wickedness,

    to undo the straps of the yoke,

to let the oppressed go free,

    and to break every yoke?

Is it not to share your bread with the hungry

    and bring the homeless poor into your house;

when you see the naked, to cover him,

    and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?”  (Isaiah 58:6-7 ESV)

“The Lord condemns all who draw near to Him only with words, those who seek their own pleasure above all else.  But for those who share with their neighbors in need, the Lord promises healing.  We cannot draw near to the Lord in faith while oppressing and quarreling with our neighbors.  Jesus perfectly fulfilled the law of love and would lead us to repentance.  His cross is the guarantee that the Lord will answer when we call upon Him in faith.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, pages 1186-7) 

We Christians find our reason for living in the call of Christ to follow His example of serving others. The hymn writer Herman Stuempfle put this so clearly...

1. Lord, help us walk Your servant way

Wherever love may lead

And, bending low, forgetting self,

Each serve the other’s need.

2. You came to earth, O Christ, as Lord,

But pow’r You laid aside.

You lived Your years in servanthood;

In lowliness You died.

3. No golden scepter but a towel

You place within the hands

Of those who seek to follow You

And live by Your commands.

4. You bid us bend our human pride

Nor count ourselves above

The lowest place, the meanest task

That waits the gift of love.

5. Lord, help us walk Your servant way

Wherever love may lead

And, bending low, forgetting self,

Each serve the other’s need.

(“Lord, Help Us Walk Your Servant Way,” Lutheran Service Book #857)

Click here to hear the hymn and sing along:

https://youtu.be/RIc4dXFZOa0

Heavenly Father, help me to remember all that You have done for my salvation. Then use me to share Your love with the oppressed, the hungry, the homeless and the naked, in Jesus’ 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 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 17, 2023 - GOD IS YOUR MIGHTY FORTRESS

"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, February 17, 2023 - Day 48 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 58:1-14; Psalm 46; John 20:19-31)

GOD IS YOUR MIGHTY FORTRESS

 

1 God is our refuge and strength,

    a very present help in trouble.

2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,

    though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,

3 though its waters roar and foam,

    though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,

    the holy habitation of the Most High.

5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;

    God will help her when morning dawns.

6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;

    he utters his voice, the earth melts.

7 The Lord of hosts is with us;

    the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,

    how he has brought desolations on the earth.

9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;

    he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;

    he burns the chariots with fire.

10 “Be still, and know that I am God.

    I will be exalted among the nations,

    I will be exalted in the earth!”

11 The Lord of hosts is with us;

    the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah  (Psalm 46 ESV)  

Lord God, thank You for being my mighty fortress and my trusty shield and weapon. Please continue to protect this penitent sinner. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 16, 2023 - HAS GOD FORGOTTEN 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)

Thursday, February 16, 2023 - Day 47 - (Today’s Bible readings:  Isaiah 57:11-21; Psalm 44; John 20:1-18)

HAS GOD FORGOTTEN YOU?

“All this has come upon us, though we have not forgotten you.”   (Psalm 44:17 ESV) 

In Psalm 44 “the psalmist recounts God’s past faithfulness but complains that God is now against His people, letting them suffer defeat despite their faithfulness to Him. They petition Him to help them once more.  

● As we undergo affliction, we are tempted to believe that God has deserted us or is unfairly punishing us.  

● B ut God is always ‘for you’ despite everything you see, feel, or think to the contrary.  

● God is not sleeping but helps, redeems, and loves - indeed ‘He ... did not spare His own Son but gave Him up for us all’ (Romans 8:32).”

(The Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 889)

Paul encourages you to focus your heart and your mind on Jesus:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  (Philippians 4:6-7)

You can make it through life’s toughest times with the peace that only Jesus, your Savior  can give you. He died for your sins, rose from the dead, and promises to always be with you – no matter what!

Always remind me, O Lord, that You are with, even when I have my doubts. Grant me the peace that comes only through faith in my Savior.  Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 15, 2023 - JESUS LOVES US . . . ONE AT A TIME

"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, February 15, 2023 - Day 46 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 57:1-10; Psalm 43; John 19:28-42)

JESUS LOVES US . . . ONE AT A TIME

“Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned and said to him in Aramaic, ‘Rabboni,’ which means teacher.” (John 19:16 ESV)

The risen Lord Jesus reveals Himself to a very confused and grieving Mary by simply speaking her name. 

That is exactly what He did for you on the day of your baptism.    (Your Name)    I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

God loves you as an individual. You are special to Him! Isaiah put it this way:

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.”  (Isaiah 43:1 ESV)

Yes, do not be afraid, God has chosen you through your baptism, redeemed by the death of His Son on Calvary’s cross, and calls you by your name!

Jesus loves me!  This I know, for the Bible tells me so;

Little ones to Him belong; They are weak but He is strong.

Yes, Jesus loves me!  Yes, Jesus loves me!

Yes, Jesus loves me!  The Bible tells me so.

My dear Savior, just as You called Mary by name, You have called me by my name. Thank You for loving me personally and redeeming me from eternal death.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 14, 2023 - VALENTINE’S DAY - THE BLESSING OF GOD’S LOVE

"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, February 14, 2023 - Day 45 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 56:1-12; Psalm 42; John 19:16-27)

VALENTINE’S DAY - THE BLESSING OF GOD’S LOVE

“Now may ... the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all.” (1 Thessalonians 3:12 ESV) 

Jesus says that He is the way, the truth and the life. So, what is His way? His way is the way of the cross, the way of sacrificial love. Paul is encouraging us to follow the loving way of our Savior: “increase and abound in love for one another and for all.”

The picture for today shows us God’s Valentine - the gift of His Son, Jesus. 

John wrote about the love of God in his first letter. “This is love, not that we loved God, but the He loved us and sent His Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10)

The hymn writer expanded on Christ’s way of love when he wrote:

Love in Christ is strong and living, 

Binding faithful hearts in one;

Love in Christ is true and giving, 

May His will in us be done.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #706 stanza 1) 

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your sacrificial love. Please bless me with greater love for You and for others. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, February 13, 2023 - BEHOLD THE MAN

"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, February 13, 2023 - Day 44 - (Today’s Bible readings: Isaiah 55:1-13; Psalm 41; John 19:1-16)

BEHOLD THE MAN

So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold the man!” (John 19:5 ESV)

“Behold the man,” Pilate prompts the crowd. As horrific as the beaten and berated Lamb of God looks now, they have not seen anything yet. Soon Jesus would be hanging between heaven and earth on Calvary’s cruel cross atoning for the sins of the world.

“Behold the man,” the Holy Spirit prompts us in Word and Sacrament. But we have not seen anything yet either. One day we will see the Righteous Judge return to take us to our heavenly home with Him. For now, the key is to keep on beholding Jesus in our weekly worship and regular attendance at His Communion table.

1. My faith looks up to Thee, 

Thou Lamb of Calvary, 

Savior divine.

Now hear me while I pray; 

Take all my guilt away;

Oh, let me from this day 

Be wholly Thine!

2. May Thy rich grace impart 

Strength to my fainting heart, 

My zeal inspire!

As Thou has died for me, 

Oh, may my love for Thee 

Pure, warm and changeless be, 

A living fire!

2. While life’s dark maze I tread 

And griefs around me spread, 

Be Thou my Guide.

Bid darkness turn to day, 

Wipe sorrows tears away,

Nor let me ever stray 

From Thee aside.

3. When ends life’s transient dream, 

When death’s cold, sullen stream 

Shall o’er me roll,

Blest Savior, then, in love, 

Fear and distrust remove;

Oh, bear me safe above, 

A ransomed soul!

(“My Faith Looks Up to Thee,” Lutheran Service Book #702)

Lord Jesus, keep my eyes focused on You so that I may gaze upon Your glory and beauty in eternity.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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!