Saturday, April 1, 2022 - WHO DO YOU SAY JESUS IS?

 

"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, April 1, 2022 - Day 91 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 18:1-34; Psalm 86; Luke 9:10-20)

WHO DO YOU SAY JESUS IS?

Now it happened that as he was praying alone, the disciples were with him. And he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” And they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.” Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”  (Luke 9:18-20 ESV)

This is the most important question anyone will ever be asked. Peter passed the test, have you? Many people have not! Look at some of their answers. Jesus is...

● A hoax

● A prophet

● A social reformer

● A moral leader

● A Son of God

All of these answers are wrong, even the last one. Here are right answers:

● Jesus is THE Son of God.

● Jesus is “THE Christ of God”

● Jesus is THE Savior of the world.

● Jesus is THE way, THE truth and THE life.

Who do you say He is? Either you answer from the first list and are lost, or you answer from the second list and are saved. May the Holy Spirit enlighten you with His gifts and bless you with the right answer!

Dear Holy Spirit, please fill me with the faith that Peter displayed and answer the question the same way. May I always believe and confess that Jesus is THE Christ of God and my Savior. 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, March 31, 2022 - TEACH ME 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

Friday, March 31, 2022 - Day 90 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 16:1-17:19; Psalm 85; Luke 9:1-9)

TEACH ME LORD

“For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace. In the day of my trouble I call upon you,  for you answer me... Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.” (Psalm 86:5-7, 11 ESV)

As we get older, we sometimes get the mistaken notion that learning is over. However, due to our sinful nature, learning is never over. We don’t seem to get it. His command is perfection, not even one sinful thought. This is why David is pleading for mercy. He knew well personal days of trouble. He knew his sin. He admitted his sin. He called on the Lord for help. And he prayed: “Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.” 

And what is the Lord’s way? Listen to Jesus: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 ESV)

The truth we get to “walk in” is the forgiveness of sins and the promise of heaven. However, this “walk” starts with a serious assessment of ones sinful condition. It continues as we “learn of” the good news that Jesus died on the cross for us, paying for every one of our many, many sins.

Christ be my Teacher in age as in youth,

Drifting or doubting, for He is the truth.

Grant me to trust Him; though shifting as sand,

Doubt cannot daunt me; in Jesus I stand.

 (Christ Be My Leader, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #861 stanza 2)

Click link for the entire hymn: https://youtu.be/wJk-yJJUQrc

Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching me about my sin and my Savior. Please help me to walk in Your truth. 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 ), 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, March 30, 2022 - AND THEY LAUGHED?

 

"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, March 30, 2022 - Day 89 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 14:1-15:19; Psalm 84; Luke 8:40-56)

AND THEY LAUGHED?

49 While he was still speaking, someone from the ruler's house came and said, “Your daughter is dead; do not trouble the Teacher any more.” 50 But Jesus on hearing this answered him, “Do not fear; only believe, and she will be well.” (Luke 8:49-50 ESV)

What comforting words from our Lord. “Do not fear; only believe...” Followers of Jesus know that we can trust the Lord to mean what He says. So, are setting aside your fears and trusting in the Lord instead? 

Jesus then proved that you can trust what He says: “54 But taking her by the hand he called, saying, “Child, arise.” 55 And her spirit returned, and she got up at once. And he directed that something should be given her to eat.” You can trust Him too!

And now for the rest of the story. Just before Jesus raised the girl back to life Jesus was ridiculed. “52 And all were weeping and mourning for her, but he said, “Do not weep, for she is not dead but sleeping.” 53 And they laughed at him, knowing that she was dead.” 

Jesus, the Lord of life, was laughed at when He gave His divine prognosis. Many laugh at Jesus today. They refuse to acknowledge Him as the only hope for this sin-sick world. They laugh at the idea that He can give real comfort and lead us through the challenges of life.

But we do not laugh. Like Martha we declare that we believe that Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of God” and our source of eternal hope and comfort.

1. Jesus, grant that balm and healing

    In Your holy wounds I find,

    Ev'ry hour that I am feeling

    Pains of body and of mind.

    Should some evil thought within

    Tempt my treach'rous heart to sin,

    Show the peril, and from sinning

    Keep me from its first beginning.

5. O my God, my rock and tower,

    Grant that in Your death I trust,

    Knowing death has lost its power

   Since You crushed it in the dust.

   Savior, let Your agony

    Ever help and comfort me;

    When I die be my protection,

    Light and life and resurrection. Amen.

   (“Jesus, Grant That Balm and Healing,” Lutheran Service Book #4210

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, March 29, 2022 - TELL HIS STORY

 

"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 29, 2022 - Day 88 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 12:1-13:22; Psalm 83; Luke 8:26-39)

TELL HIS STORY

The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you.” And he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city how much Jesus had done for him.  (Luke 8:38-39 ESV)

Do you think that the formerly demon-possessed man needed much encouragement to talk about what Jesus had done for me? I think not. 

Do you need encouragement to talk about what Jesus has done for you? Like the man freed from demons, we too struggle with the devil’s influence in our lives. We need the help of Jesus just as much as he did.

Luther gets to the heart of what Christ has done for us in the Explanation to the Second Article of the Apostles’ Creed:

“I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father from eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord. Who has redeemed me, a lost and condemned person, purchased and won me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil; not with gold or silver, but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death, that I may be His own and live under Him in His kingdom and serve Him in everlasting righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as He is risen from the dead, lives and reigns to all eternity. This is most certainly true.” (Explanation to the Second Article of the Apostles’ Creed, Luther’s Small Catechism)

Post Communion Canticle

Thank the Lord and sing His praise; tell ev'ryone what He has done.

Let all who seek the Lord rejoice and proudly bear His name.  

He recalls His promises and leads His people forth in joy with shouts of thanksgiving.  

Alleluia, alleluia. 

(Post Communion Canticle, Lutheran Service Book)

Dear Lord, help me to never forget all that You have done for me. Please bless my efforts to declare this to 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!

Tuesday, March 28, 2022 - JESUS, SAVIOR, PILOT ME

"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, March 28, 2022 - Day 87 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 11:1-23; Psalm 82; Luke 8:19-25)

JESUS, SAVIOR, PILOT ME

And they went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” (Luke 8:24 ESV) 

The disciples were crossing the sea of Galilee and Jesus was with them, but He was sleeping. A storm came up and soon water was rushing into the boat and they were afraid of going down. They were men of the sea, or at least of the lake, and they knew that the situation was bad, so they cried out to their Master, Jesus.

What was Jesus’ response to their plea for help?

And he awoke and rebuked the wind and the raging waves, and they ceased, and there was a calm. (V 24) 

The Lord broke the calm by asking “Where is your faith?”

How do you handle the storms of life? Do you have faith that the Lord will lead you through those storms? We all need to pray the words of this hymn:

Jesus, Savior, pilot me

Over life’s tempestuous sea;

Unknown waves before me roll,

Hiding rock and treacherous shoal.

Chart and compass come from Thee;

Jesus, Savior, pilot me.

(“Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me,”  Lutheran Service Book #715)

When the storms of life press in upon you, just as the disciples, remember that you have a God who saves you by means of His glorious cross!

Lord, on the cross of Calvary You answered my prayer. May I live the rest of my life thanking you for saving me from the storms of sin, death and the devil. 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, March 27, 2022 - RECEPTIVE TO THE WORD?

 

"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, March 27, 2022 - Day 86 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 10:1-19; Psalm 81; Luke 8:9-18)

RECEPTIVE TO THE WORD?

“Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.”  (Luke 8:11-15 ESV)

Do you see yourself in this parable? What kind of soil are you?

● Path - Faithless

● Rock - Rootless

● Thorns - Fruitless

● Good - Fruitful

Paul encourages us to...

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.”  (Colossians 3:16 ESV)

Blessings come to those who read and heed God’s Word. We get to read the Bible in our private devotions at home. We get to grow further in our understanding of God’s Word in worship and in Bible studies at church. And why is this so important?

We get to be “those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.” 

    

The fruit that “holding fast” to God’s Word produces is the forgiveness of our sins, the guarantee of heaven, and peace and direction for our daily lives.       

Dear Lord, thank You for planting Your saving Word into my heart. May I be good soil for You, patiently and faithfully living my life for You. 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, March 26, 2022 - HIS PEOPLE - OUR GOD

 

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

Sunday, March 26, 2022 - Day 85 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 9:13-31; Psalm 80; Luke 8:1-8)

HIS PEOPLE - OUR GOD

“And I will give them one heart, and a new spirit I will put within them. . . And they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” (Ezekiel 11:19-20 ESV)

Ezekiel is given a vision of the just punishment God will render toward His unfaithful people. Yet God is planning to show mercy.  Do you remember David’s prayer?  

Hide your face from my sins, 

and blot out all my iniquities.

Create in me a clean heart, O God,

and renew a right spirit within me.

Cast me not away from your presence, 

and take not your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation, 

and uphold me with a willing spirit.

(Psalm 51:9-12 ESV)

In Christ Jesus this prayer was answered for David and for us. His death on the cross has blotted out all of our sins and iniquities. The result is a clean heart and a right spirit. The second half of David’s prayer is for a renewed relationship with God. This we find answered directly by God’s declaration: “And they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” 

Heavenly Father, thank You for answering my prayer for forgiveness and for a clean heart. I rejoice that, in spite of my sinful nature, I am still one of Your people and You are still my God. 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 ), 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, March 25, 2022 - THE ANNUNCIATION OF OUR 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, March 25, 2022 - Day 84 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 9:1-12; Psalm 79; Luke 7:36-50)

THE ANNUNCIATION OF OUR LORD

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. And he came to her and said, "Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you." But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David.  He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end."  Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?"  The angel said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore  the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God." Then Mary said, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word." Then the angel departed from her. (Luke 1:26-38)

March 25 has been set aside to remember the Annunciation of Our Lord. The Annunciation is when the Angel Gabriel visited the Virgin Mary announcing to her that she would be the mother of the Son of God. His announcement was made 9 months before December 25, Christmas.

The annunciation and the ensuing miraculous conception of Jesus marks the first step of our Lord’s humiliation. This is the moment he took on human flesh for “us men and for our salvation.” 

In spite of the richness of this festival, it is really about Jesus, about the incarnation, about God becoming human. Mary’s remarkable faith, is but one feature in the story. Her status as most favored, chosen to be the birth-giver of God, are surpassed by the splendor of that event of which she was the chosen vessel, the entrance of God into the world.

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Gabriel to announce the good news to Mary, and to all of mankind, that Your were about to send Your Son to earth. May our ultimate joy be found in Jesus’ completed mission on our behalf, namely, the salvation of the world by means of His substitutionary death on the cross. Keep us faithful and grateful. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), 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, March 24, 2023 - WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

 

"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, March 24, 2023 - Day 83 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 2 Chronicles 8:1-18; Psalm 78:36-72; Luke 7:18-35)

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head and fell on the ground and worshiped. And he said, “Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked shall I return. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” In all this Job did not sin or charge God with wrong. (Job 1:20-22  ESV)

Job was a very wealthy man, with  7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, and 500 female donkeys, and very many servants. He also had 7 sons and 3 daughters. God allowed Job to face one of life’s most challenging tests – He lost everything, his possessions and his children. 

Yes, Job did mourn his loss. “Then Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head and fell on the ground and worshiped.”

Yet, he remained faithful to God. “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”

What would you do if you lost everything? Would you bless the Lord?

Job’s response reminds me of the response of Peter when Jesus asked him if he would desert Jesus too. “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68)

Heavenly Father, help me to be like Job, and remain faithful to You no matter why my circumstances may be. Remind me that Jesus is my only hope for eternity with You. 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, March 23, 2022 - JUST SAY THE WORD

"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, March 23, 2022 - Day 82 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 7:11-22; Psalm 78:1-35; Luke 7:1-17)

JUST SAY THE WORD

And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends, saying to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof. Therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed. For I too am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the servant well.  (Luke 7:6-10 ESV)

“But say the word, and let my servant be healed.”  These words spoken by a kind Roman centurion moved Jesus to respond: “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” And the servant is healed. Faith in Jesus results in a miracle from Jesus.

“Just say the word.” When someone says these words, they are letting you know that they are there for you. In church, God comes to you with His powerful Word. In fact, the main focus in the Divine Service is God serving you with His Word and Sacraments (Baptism and the Lord’s Supper).

So, when you attend church this weekend I hope that you will have this in mind. “Lord, just say the word.” In other words, ask the Lord to feed your soul with His Word as you hear it read, as you sing it, and as the pastor explains and proclaims it in the sermon. 

Dear Lord, please speak to me through Your Word as I hear it in church and as I study the Bible during the week. Open my ears to hear of my sin and of Your plan to forgive my sins and promise me eternal life in heaven. 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!

Wednesday, March 23, 2022 - Walk as Children of Light in a Dark World

"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 23, 2022 - Day 81 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 7:1-10; Psalm 77; Luke 6:37-49)

Walk as Children of Light in a Dark World

8 For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. (Ephesians 5:8-9)

It is a tragic fact that there are so many today who continue to walk in spiritual darkness. So many have no idea why Jesus came to this earth. They have no idea of what Jesus has to offer them... 

- peace

- forgiveness of their sins

- reconciliation with God the Father

- guarantee of eternity in heaven

- true love (God’s love) that changes EVERYTHING!

Perhaps you know someone like that. They may even be close to you, a relative, a coworker, a neighbor. If so...

- pray for them 

  (Lord, lay some soul upon my heart, and love that soul through me. 

  And may I humbly do my part to win that soul for Thee. Amen.)

- model Christ’s love to / for them

- share God’s plan of salvation with them (Jesus died and rose for them)

- invite them to your house

- invite them to God’s house

And pray some more, so they might join you in walking in the light!

1. I want to walk as a child of the light; 

I want to follow Jesus. 

God set the stars to give light to the world; 

The star of my life is Jesus.

Refrain:

In him there is no darkness at all; 

The night and the day are both alike. 

The Lamb is the light of the city of God. 

Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus.

(I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light,. LSB 411)

Lord, please let the light of Your love burn in my heart and through my life, all to Your glory and the welfare of 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!

Tuesday, March 21, 2023 - ABOVE ALL THINGS

 

"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, March 21, 2023 - Day 80 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 6:28-42; Psalm 76; Luke 6:20-36)

ABOVE ALL THINGS

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”   (Proverbs 1:7 ESV) 

“The First Commandment teaches that ‘we should fear, love and trust in God ABOVE ALL THINGS... He desires for His people to regard Him in awe, respect, and love... Such wisdom–given by God through Word and Sacrament, making us His children, is the theme for the book of Proverbs. True wisdom begins with an individual’s apprehension in knowledge and trust in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior. Fools are those who reject God and the wisdom and instruction He freely offers through faith.”  (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 999)

As we face the challenges of another day, may focus on God and His will ABOVE ALL THINGS!

Lord God heavenly Father, I truly want to fear, love and trust in You above all things. Please forgive me for the many times I have foolishly disobeyed Your holy will. And please all of us to point others for You. 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 ), 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, March 20, 2023 - EVIL SEEMS TO BE WINNING, BUT...

"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, March 20, 2023 - Day 79 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 6:12-27; Psalm 75; Luke 6:12-19)

EVIL SEEMS TO BE WINNING, BUT...

2 “At the set time that I appoint

    I will judge with equity.

3 When the earth totters, and all its inhabitants,

    it is I who keep steady its pillars. Selah

4 I say to the boastful, ‘Do not boast,’

    and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horn;

5 do not lift up your horn on high,

    or speak with haughty neck.’” (Psalm 75:2-5 ESV)

We live in a day when the boastful seem to be gaining the upper hand. A case in point would be the instances where Christians who are attempting to follow Biblical moral values are told that they need diversity training. 

The wicked enjoy immense popularity and do, in fact, “speak with haughty neck.” Look at how a scientist who believes in creation is treated by the proponents of evolution.

St. Paul describes what the boastful and wicked are into: “Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality,  idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these.”  (Galatians 5:19-21 ESV)

David’s cry to the Lord is our prayer today as well. “Return, O Lord! How long? Have pity on your servants!” (Psalm 90:13 ESV)

Here is God’s assuring answer: 2 “At the set time that I appoint I will judge with equity. 3 When the earth totters, and all its inhabitants, it is I who keep steady its pillars.”

Lord God, thank You for Your promise to judge the wicked. Thank You for having pity on Your servants. We beseech You to heal our world from the ravages of evil as You remind us that You are in control. 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 ), 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, March 19, 2023 - NO GOOD DEED GOES UNPUNISHED

 

"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, March 19, 2023 - Day 78 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 6:1-11; Psalm 74; Luke 6:1-11)

NO GOOD DEED GOES UNPUNISHED

9 And Jesus said to them, “I ask you, is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to destroy it?” 10 And after looking around at them all he said to him, “Stretch out your hand.” And he did so, and his hand was restored. 11 But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.  (Luke 6:9-11 ESV)

The dog that bites his master as he gives his pet some food, the kind religious prisoner who rescues his pursuer only to be killed for his beliefs, and the compassionate Savior who heals a man’s withered hand all have something in common. They proved that, many times, no good deed goes unpunished.

 “Stretch out your hand.” And he did so, and his hand was restored. 11 But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.

Jesus has compassion on a man whose life and livelihood were greatly hampered by his withered hand. The only problem, in the eyes of His enemies, was that the Lord did this “work” on the Sabbath. His kind miracle filled them with anger and with a desire to get back at Him. His kindness would not go unpunished if they had anything to say about it.

They certainly had plenty to say! 

“Crucify him... His blood be on us and on our children.” (Matthew 23:23-25)

Jesus’ whole life consisted of good deeds, the holy life God the Father requires of all who would be saved. And then He was crucified. As unfair as this is, it was all part of God the Father’s plan for our salvation. Thank God our kind and compassionate Jesus was punished on the cross for us!

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for healing the withered hand on the Sabbath, showing Your divinity. Thank You even more for healing my sin-withered soul. Regardless of how some may be negatively rewarded for acts of kindness, please guide me and empower me to continue to serve You by sharing Your kindness with others. 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, March 18, 2023 - BE NEAR ME LORD 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

Saturday, March 18, 2023 - Day 77 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 5:2-14; Psalm 73; Luke 5:27-39)

BE NEAR ME LORD JESUS!

“But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.”  (Psalm 73:28 ESV) 

“Being troubled by doubt and envy does not mean that we have lost our faith.  We are called to struggle against doubt and envy. We find strength to do so in the certainty of the final outcome of God’s promises.”  (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 918)

“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NIV)

No wonder David calls God his refuge. Christ is our refuge too. It so important to always, always, always stay close to our Jesus!  And how do we do this?

● Weekly Worship

● Bible Study

● 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.

Lord, help me to fight doubt and envy by keeping me close to You. Bless me with a hunger for Your Word of promise.  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, March 17, 2023 - THE CALL TO NEW LIFE IN CHRIST 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

Friday, March 17, 2023 - Day 76 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 4:1-5:1; Psalm 72; Luke 5:12-26)

THE CALL TO NEW  LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS

Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.  (Romans 6:8-11 ESV)

Patrick was a missionary in Ireland during the second half of the fifth century, a time when that country knew only paganism. His efforts were greatly blessed as the Lord led many Druids to new life in Christ Jesus. Patrick died on March 17, 461, making today St. Patrick’s Day. However, I am sure that he would not be pleased with how the day has become a day for merely the wearing of the green and drinking.

Patrick was concerned with the souls of a people that had kidnaped him at the age of 16 and dragged him from Great Britain to Ireland. Several years later he escaped and began preparing for the priesthood and his eventual role as a missionary to the Irish.

In our verse for today, Paul reminds repentant sinners that they have new life in Christ Jesus. Patrick’s ministry had the same focus based on these words from Jesus: 

“Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” 

 

The Lord then gives us the ultimate motivation for such service.

“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”

Heaven and hell are in the balance. People either are saved through faith in Christ, or they are lost and damned for not believing in Christ.

How do we respond when we hear God’s command to “go and tell” today? My prayer is that we also obey.

Dear Jesus, thank You for calling me to saving faith in You. Please use me to go and tell others so that they can also be saved and not condemned. 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, March 15, 2023 - LORD JESUS CHRIST, BE PRESENT NOW

"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 15, 2023 - Day 74 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 3:1-17; Psalm 71; Luke 4:42-5:11)

LORD JESUS CHRIST, BE PRESENT NOW

O God, be not far from me; O my God, make haste to help me!   (Psalm 71:12 ESV)

David’s words are a most fitting prayer as we face the uncertainties of life in the 21st century.

● Stick close to me.

Feelings of isolation and mistrust are all too common for all to many people today. Listen to this clear promise: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)

● Help me soon.

The timing of your deliverance from whatever challenges you are facing is up to your loving God. However long it takes, don’t forget what He has promised to all who repent and believe in Jesus:

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

Lord Jesus Christ, be present now;

Our hearts in true devotion bow,

Your Spirit send with light divine,

And let Your truth within us shine. Amen. 

(“Lord Jesus Christ, Be Present Now,” Lutheran Service Book, 2006, #902, stanza 1)

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!