Sunday, October 1, 2023 - OUR TIMELESS 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, October 1, 2023 - Day 274  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 29; Psalm 90; Hebrews 3:12-29)

OUR TIMELESS GOD

“Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. You return man to dust and say, “Return, O children of man!”  For a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past, or as a watch in the night.”  (Ps 90:1-4 ESV) 

Few things convey stability better than a castle. Of course, that is no ordinary castle in this picture. It is the Wartburg Castle, where Dr. Martin Luther translated the Bible into German and placed God’s Word in the hands of the common man for the first time.

No man-made structure, philosophy or ability can compare to the everlasting nature of God. The Apostles’ Creed begins, “I believe in God, the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth,” reflecting that nature. This hymn by Isaac Watts seems fitting as we witness time rolling on under the watchful eye of our everlasting God.

1 Our God, our help in ages past, 

Our hope for years to come,

        Our shelter from the stormy blast, 

And our eternal home:

2 Under the shadow of Thy throne 

Thy saints have dwelt secure;

        Sufficient is Thine arm alone, 

And our defense is sure.

3 Before the hills in order stood, 

Or earth received her frame,

        From everlasting Thou art God, 

To endless years the same.

4 A thousand ages in Thy sight 

Are like an evening gone,

        Short as the watch that ends the night 

Before the rising sun.

5 Time, like an ever-rolling stream, 

Soon bears us all away;

        We fly forgotten as a dream 

Dies at the op'ning day.

6 O God, our help in ages past, 

Our hope for years to come,

        Be Thou our guard while life shall last 

And our eternal home! 

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #733)

Thank You, everlasting God, for being our help in ages past and our hope for years to come. Keep my faith in Jesus strong so that I may have life everlasting with You. In Jesus’ saving name I pray. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape 

Saturday, September 30, 2023 - GOD MADE EVERYTHING

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

Saturday, September 30, 2023 - Day 273  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 28; Psalm 89; Hebrews 3:1-11)

GOD MADE EVERYTHING

“For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.” (Hebrews 3:4 ESV) 

When it comes to the origin of the world, many Bible doubters say that God didn’t create the world by the power of His word. However, we do believe what the Bible has to say: 

“The builder of all things is God.” 

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”   (Genesis 1:1)

“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” (Psalm 139:13-14)

“For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.” (Hebrews 3:4)

“For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.” (Romans 1:20)

“So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” (Genesis 1:27)

“Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 124:8)

We Christians take great comfort in the fact that we are not the result of random happenstance. Instead, we are part of God’s plan.

   Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!

   O my soul, praise him, for he is your health and salvation!

   Let all who hear Now to his temple draw near,

   Joining in glad adoration!

  “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006 #790 (1)

Lord Jesus, thank You for creating the world and everything and everyone in it. Help me to always remember that You, the King of creation, are in charge of everything, including my life. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

"See" in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape 

Friday, September 29, 2023 - PAY ATTENTION

 

"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, September 29, 2023 - Day 272  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 27; Psalm 88; Hebrews 2:10-18)

PAY ATTENTION

“Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.” (Hebrews 2: 1 ESV) 

This is a warning for our day. Tragically, many have carelessly drifted away from God! And this is extremely dangerous! Instead, the Lord is calling us to...

  

● Pay attention to what you have learned from the Bible.

● Pay attention to what you learned from Luther’s Small Catechism.

● Pay attention to the blessing of prayer.

● Pay attention to the receiving the body and blood of your Savior often.

● Pay attention to the blessings of your Baptism.   

● Pay attention to God’s call to love and help others in His name.

● Pay attention to Jesus!

Listen, listen, 

God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

Jesus gave his mandate; share the good news 

that he came to save us and set us free.

Listen, listen, 

God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

Help us to be faithful, standing steadfast, 

walking in Your precepts, led by Your Word.

Listen, listen, 

God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

(Listen, God Is Calling, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, # 833)

Lord Jesus, help me to pay close attention to You and all that You mean to me.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Thursday, September 28, 2023 - GOD PROTECTS HIS OWN

"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, September 28, 2023 - Day 271  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 26; Psalm 87; Hebrews 2:1-9)

GOD PROTECTS HIS OWN

"The word of the Lord came to me: Son of man... prophecy against them." (Ezekiel 25:1 ESV)

“Ezekiel pronounces the first of seven prophecies against nations surrounding Israel.  God directs world events by faithfully protecting those whom He loves and punishing those who disobey Him. God continues to do the same today. He will not allow nations or individuals to mock Him. He will call straying people to repentance, that He might forgive them and restore blessings to them so that others may come to know the Lord."  (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 1350)  

     Jesus, lead Thou on till our rest is won.  

     Heavenly Leader still direct us,

     Still support, control, protect us, 

     Till we safely stand in our fatherland.

     (Jesus, Lead Thou On, Lutheran Service Book 718 - 4)

Thank You, Lord, for protecting Your own people. Grant me the comfort of knowing that I am a precious, blood-bought, baptized, forgiven, heaven-bound, gifted child of God. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - 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)

Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - Day 270  - (Today’s Bible readings:  Ezekiel 25; Psalm 86; Hebrews 1:8-14)

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. God’s 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)

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 

Tuesday, September 26, 2023 - TRULY ONE OF A KIND

"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, September 26, 2023 - Day 269  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 24; Psalm 85; Hebrews 1:1-7)

TRULY ONE OF A KIND

“Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” (Hebrews 1:1-3 ESV) 

Jesus is truly one of a kind! 

● He speaks to us through the Word of God. 

● He participated in the Creation of the world.

● He is the radiance of the glory of God because He IS God!

● He is the all-powerful Word (John 1:1ff).

● He made atonement for our sins by dying on the cross. 

● He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father.

● He will return to claim His Church (all believers) for eternity.

   Beautiful Savior, Lord of the nations, 

   Son of God and Son of Man!

   Glory and honor, Praise adoration 

   Now and forevermore be thine!

   (Beautiful Savior, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, # 537 stanza 4)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being my Beautiful Savior. You are my everything.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

 

"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, September 25, 2023 - Day 268  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 23; Psalm 84; Philemon 1-25)

WHAT DO PEOPLE HEAR ABOUT YOU?

“I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints, and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ.” (Philemon 1:4-6 ESV) 

What do people hear about you? Paul apparently had heard good things about Philemon. 

If, like Philemon, you have love and faith for Jesus and His people, others will soon hear about it. 

  Love is patient and forbearing, 

  Clothed in Christ’s humility,

  Gentle, selfless, kind, and caring, 

  Reaching out in charity.

  (Love in Christ Is Strong and Living, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, # 706 stanza 2)

Heavenly Father, thank You for my salvation. Please help me to share Your love with others so that they may see You in me. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Sunday, September 24, 2023 - WHAT GOD HAS FOR YOU IN CHURCH

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

Sunday, September 24, 2023 - Day 267  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 22; Psalm 83; Titus 3:1-15)

WHAT GOD HAS FOR YOU IN CHURCH

“But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (Titus 3:4-7 ESV) 

What do you find when you go to church? You find the goodness and kindness of God as He comes to You in His Word and Sacrament. His Word reminds you that you cannot be saved by what you do (works). Instead, it is God’s merciful washing away of your sins that makes you justified in God’s sight.

The focal point of St. Paul’s in Brown Deer, as in many of our churches, is the cross. It constantly reminds us that the Holy Spirit renews our relationship with God by means of Jesus and His cross. The cross is our constant reminder that eternal life is ours only through Jesus substitutionary death for sinners like you and me. 

  Led on their way by this triumphant sign, 

  The hosts of God in conqu'ring ranks combine.

  Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim

  Till all the world adore His sacred name.

  (Lift High the Cross, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #837)

Heavenly Father, thank You for church, and Your promise to meet me there. Grant me a hunger for Your Word and the message of Christ’s cross. Please make me watchful for opportunities to lift high the cross, and proclaim Christ’s love. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape 

Saturday, September 23, 2023 - DECLARE THESE 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)

Saturday, September 23, 2023 - Day 266  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 21; Psalm 82; Titus 2:1-15)

DECLARE THESE THINGS

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people . . . Declare these things.” (Titus 2:11 & 15 ESV)

This short book contains Paul’s instruction for pastors, however, there is much that all of God’s people can learn from his words.

Chapter 2 verse 11 contains the heart of our faith. Our merciful and gracious God appeared in the person of Jesus whose death on the cross provides salvation to all. This is the main message God tells all of us to declare. 

There is hope for sinners like you and me. And this hope is available to anyone who believes that Jesus died for them. Now that is really good news! May the Lord bless us as we declare His story all who will listen.

  Salvation unto us has come

  By God’s free grace and favor;

  Good works cannot avert our doom,

  They help and save us never.

  Faith looks to Jesus Christ alone,

  Who did for all the world atone;

  He is our one Redeemer.

  ("Salvation unto Us Has Come,” Lutheran Service Book #555)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for bringing salvation to the whole world. Please use me to help declare Your story in my everyday life.  Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

Friday, September 22, 2023 - IS CHANGE COMING?

 

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

Friday, September 22, 2023 - Day 265  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 20; Psalm 81; Titus 1:1-16)

IS CHANGE COMING? Medium

“Things shall not remain as they are.” (Ezekiel 21:26 ESV)

Fall is such a beautiful time of year in Wisconsin. And then we have Ezekiel! There isn’t much that could be described as beautiful here.

“Behold, the princes of Israel in you, every one according to his power, have been bent on shedding blood. Father and mother are treated with contempt in you; the sojourner suffers extortion in your midst; the fatherless and the widow are wronged in you. You have despised my holy things and profaned my Sabbaths. There are men in you who slander to shed blood... they commit lewdness in your midst. Men violate women... In you they take bribes to shed blood; you take interest and profit and make gain of your neighbors by extortion; but me you have forgotten, declares the Lord God.” (Ezekiel 22:6-12 ESV)

Because His people had forgotten God, they are about to face horrendous change. The throne of David is about to be vacated until his ultimate Descendant (Jesus) arrives.  Great change is coming for this nation.

Many of us look at America with sadness over how our values have changed. Furthermore, the threat of radical Islam, an anti-Christian disposition, and a flood of illegal immigrants, make us very apprehensive about the future and the possibility of even greater negative changes. These are scary times. Yet we are richly blessed by the Lord. 

We are all sinners who deserve to be separated from God forever. Thank God things will not remain as they are for us. Jesus has taken our sins upon Himself and we are heaven-bound!

Lord God, please have mercy on me and spare me from the punishment I deserve.  Please lead America to return to our Christian roots so that our nation can be a blessing to our citizens and the world. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Thursday, September 21, 2023 - TURN AND LIVE

 

"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, September 21, 2023 - Day 264  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 19; Psalm 80; 2 Timothy 4:9-22)

TURN AND LIVE

“Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, declares the Lord God, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live?” (Ezekiel 18:23 ESV)

There are people who look at all of the evil in the world and decide that they want nothing to do with a God would allow it to continue. There are others, sometimes the same ones, who reject the idea of a God who would sentence unbelieving sinners to hell. The tragic thing is that they have never looked into the heart of God.

Ezekiel gives us a glimpse into God’s heart in today’s verse. God doesn’t want sinners to die without Jesus. His great desire is for sinners, like you and me, to repent of our sins and live with Him eternally. In other words, God wants us to turn from living for ourselves to living for Him by trusting in Jesus as our Savior and Lord.

Delay not, delay not, O sinner, draw near.

The waters of life are now flowing for you.

No price is demanded, the Savior is here,

Redemption is purchased, God’s promise is true. 

Delay not, delay not, O sinner, to come;

For mercy still lingers and calls you today.

Its voice is not heard in the vale of the tomb;

Its message, unheeded, will soon pass away. 

Delay not, delay not! The Spirit of grace,

Long grieved and resisted, may take his sad flight

And leave you in darkness to finish your race,

To sink in the gloom of eternity’s night. 

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

The earth will dissolve, and the heavens will fade.

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

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

Delay not, delay not! Why longer abuse

The love and compassion of Jesus, your God?

A fountain is opened; how can you refuse

To wash and be cleansed in his pardoning blood? 

(“Delay Not, Delay Not, O Sinner, Draw Near,” Lutheran Worship, CPH #349)

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus in order to make it possible for me to turn away from myself and live with You. May the Holy Spirit continue His work of turning me to You for the rest of my life. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Wednesday, September 20, 2023 - MYTHS OR 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)

Wednesday, September 20, 2023 - Day 263  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 18; Psalm 79; 2 Timothy 4:1-8)

MYTHS OR MIGHTY FORTRESS?

“For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” (2 Timothy 4:3-4 ESV) 

Become a Better You is a the title of book written by a famous televangelist designed to offer seven steps in becoming a better you. Sounds interesting.

“I am not a poor, miserable sinner,” are the words of another famous televangelist. Sounds liberating.

“Itching ears” buy the books, attend the rallies and send their money to these teachers who “suit their passions,” and thereby wander after the myth of humanism (the idea that man is in charge and not God).

Yes, there may well be good points shared by both of these popular preachers. However, in the words of an old TV commercial, “where’s the beef?”

What every person needs to hear is that the only way to a “better you” is to repent and admit that you are, in fact, “a poor miserable sinner.” Only when we are aware of our lostness and our helplessness can we approach God seeking the mercy and protection of the One who is our Mighty Fortress.

       

A mighty Fortress is our God, A trusty Shield and Weapon;

He helps us free from ev'ry need That hath us now o'ertaken.

The old evil Foe  Now means deadly woe;  Deep guild and great might

Are his dread arms in fight;  On earth is not his equal.

"A Mighty Fortress Is Our God," Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #656 (1)

Heavenly Father, please protect me from the deceptive myths of the day. To this end, grant me a continued hunger for Your mercy and forgiveness. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Tuesday, September 19, 2023 - TEACHING CHILDREN

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

Tuesday, September 19, 2023 - Day 262  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 17; Psalm 78:36-72; 2 Timothy 3:10-17)

TEACHING CHILDREN

I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old, things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. (Psalm 78:2-4 ESV)

If we don’t teach our children to believe in Jesus, the world will teach them not to. Let us not fall down on the job and fail to teach children the things of God. This children’s song says it well...

Let me learn of Jesus; He is kind to me;

Once He died to save me, nailed upon the tree.

When I go to Jesus, He will hear me pray,

Make me pure and holy, take my sins away.

Let me think of Jesus; He is full of love,

Looking down upon me from His throne above.

If I trust in Jesus, if I do His will,

Then I shall be happy, safe from every ill.

Oh, how good is Jesus! May He hold my hand

And at last receive me to a better land. 

(Let Me Learn of Jesus, All God’s People Sing CPH #156)

Almighty God, please bless children with truth of You love and mercy in sending Jesus to be the Savior of all and any who repent and believe. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

Monday, September 18, 2023 - FAITHFULNESS IN THE LAST DAYS

"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, September 18, 2023 - Day 261  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 16; Psalm 78:1-35; 2 Timothy 3:1-9)

FAITHFULNESS IN THE LAST DAYS

“But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive,  disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy,  heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5 ESV) 

Are we living in “times of difficulty?” Are people on this planet “lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive...”  

Paul is directing us to respond by avoiding those who exhibit what we have just read. However, here are a few other things I think the Lord would have us do.

● Remain close to Christ by prayer, Bible study and faithful worship.

● Pray for the lost and look for ways to be God’s love to them, with the goal of developing relationships that can lead to sharing the Gospel message of Christ and His love.

● Keep our eyes on our heavenly inheritance, and help our loved ones to do the same.

Lord Jesus, strengthen me for the end times. Use me to reach the lost and protect the weak before it is too late. And help all of Your people to remember that the best is yet to come. I Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Sunday, September 17, 2023 - THE PURE PROMISES OF 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, September 17, 2023 - Day 260  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 15; Psalm 77; 2 Timothy 2:14-26)

THE PURE PROMISES OF GOD

“The promises of the Lord are promises that are pure,

    silver refined in a furnace on the ground,

    purified seven times.” (Psalm 12:6 RSV)

There aren’t too many things in this world that are truly pure. Most of our foods have additives. Our water needs to be filtered. Even Ivory soap is only 99 and 44/100% pure.

But God’s promises are 100% pure. And that means that you can trust Him completely. Here are some of those pure gems:

“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5 ESV)

“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:16 ESV)

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

“Because I live, you also will live.” (John 14:6 ESV)

If thou but suffer God to guide thee,

And hope in Him through all thy ways,

He’ll give thee strength whate’er betide thee,

And bear thee through the evil days.

Who trusts in God’s unchanging love

Builds on the rock that nought can move.

(Lutheran Service Book #750)

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your promises! They are truly pure blessings to me. May I always believe them and share them for the rest of my life! Amen.

‘See” you at the Communion rail this morning.

Pastor David Paape 

Saturday, September 16, 2023 - CHRIST REMAINS FAITHFUL

"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, September 16, 2023 - Day 259  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 14; Psalm 76; 2 Timothy 2:1-13)

CHRIST REMAINS FAITHFUL

“If we have died with him, we will also live with him;

if we endure, we will also reign with him;

if we deny him, he also will deny us;

if we are faithless, he remains faithful—

for he cannot deny himself.” (2 Timothy 2:11-13 ESV) 

Each phrase in these verses begins with “if.” It sounds like salvation is up to us.

“If we...,” then good things will follow. If we die with Jesus, that is die to sin, we will live with Him. If we “hang in there” when life gets rough, we will rule with Jesus. 

However, if we deny Jesus, He will deny us. But look at how Jesus responds to the times we are faithless. “He remains faithful.”

The conclusion is that our salvation depends on Jesus and not on us! What comforting news that is. There are no conditions! Our faithful Savior promises to always be with us, even to the end of time.

Salvation unto us has come

By God’s free grace and favor;

Good works cannot avert our doom,

They help and save us never.

Faith looks to Jesus Christ alone,

Who did for all the world atone;

He is our one Redeemer.

“Salvation unto Us Has Come,” LSB #555 (1)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being faithful to me, especially because my sins make me unfaithful to You. May I continue to look to You alone for the redemption of my soul. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape 

Friday, September 15, 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)

Friday, September 15, 2023 - Day 258  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 13; Psalm 75; 2 Timothy 1:1-18)

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.

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.”

1. The world is very evil,

    The times are waxing late;

    Be sober and keep vigil,

    The Judge is at the gate;

    The Judge that comes in mercy,

    The Judge that comes with might,

    To terminate the evil,

    To diadem the right.

2. Arise, arise, good Christian,

    Let right to wrong succeed;

    Let penitential sorrow

    To heav'nly gladness lead,

    To light that hath no evening,

    That knows no moon nor sun,

    The light so new and golden,

    The light that is but one.

5. O sweet and blessed country,

    The home of God's elect!

    O sweet and blessed country

    That eager hearts expect!

    Jesus, in mercy bring us

    To that dear land of rest,

    Who art, with God the Father

    And Spirit, ever blest.

    (“The World Is Very Evil,” The Lutheran Hymnal #605)

Link to this classic hymn being played and sung at Trinity Lutheran Church in Milwaukee. The organist is good friend, Dr. John Behnke.

https://youtu.be/ngKqeYy3VmU?t=85

Lord God, thank You for Your promise to judge the wicked. Thank You for having pity on Your servants. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Thursday, September 14, 2023 - FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT

"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, September 14, 2023 - Day 257  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 12; Psalm 74; 1 Timothy 6:11-21)

FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT

“Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of eternal life to which you were called...” (1 Timothy 6:12 ESV)

Remaining faithful to Christ in our godless world can be a struggle. Paul encouraged the young pastor, Timothy, to fight the good fight of faith. You and I are encouraged to do the same,

The picture reminds us of Moses and his good fight of faith. God granted victory as long as faithful Moses held up his hand.  But Moses needed the help of Aaron and Hur in order to remain faithful. 

So Joshua did as Moses told him, and fought with Amalek... Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed, and whenever he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses’ hands grew weary, so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it, while Aaron and Hur held up his hands, one on one side, and the other on the other side. So his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. And Joshua overwhelmed Amalek and his people with the sword. (Exodus 17:10-13 ESV)

Who is your Aaron and Hur? Who is helping you to remain faithful? Who needs you to be an Aaron or Hur so that you can remain faithful?

Today the Lord wants to uphold your hands with His Word and with Holy Communion. In these treasures we find the faith-strengthening good news of Jesus’ sacrifice in payment for your sins. Talk about an uplifting message! 

1. Fight the good fight with all your might;

Christ is your strength, and Christ your right.

Lay hold on life, and it shall be

Your joy and crown eternally.

2. Run the straight race through God's good grace;

Lift up your eyes, and seek His face.

Life with its way before us lies;

Christ is the path, and Christ the prize.

3. Cast care aside, lean on your guide;

His boundless mercy will provide.

Trust, and enduring faith shall prove

Christ is your life and Christ your love.

4. Faint not nor fear, His arms are near;

He changes not who holds you dear;

Only believe, and you will see

That Christ is all eternally.

(“Fight the Good Fight,” Lutheran Service Book #664)

Lord Jesus, thank You for holding up my hands so that I remain faithful  to You. And thank You for those around me whom You are using to bless me. May I be a blessing to others too.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Wednesday, September 13, 2023 - YOUR PRICELESS TREASURE

 

"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, September 13, 2023 - Day 256  - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezekiel 11; Psalm 73; 1 Timothy 6:3-10)

YOUR PRICELESS TREASURE

But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content... For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. (1 Timothy 6:6-8,10 ESV)

“Rather than being content with what we have, we by nature covet the things we do not have. Those who covet often see money as a wonderful solution to all of life’s problems. But those who love money are in grave danger; they risk losing their faith in Christ. Our Savior has blessed us with the richness of His priceless salvation. Nothing can separate us from His love. As He tenderly cares for us through His word of promise, we are able to enjoy lives of godliness and contentment. All that we can take with us when we leave this world is the life and immortality that Jesus has given us through faith–and that is more than enough!” (The Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 2077)

Hymn writer Johann Franck put these priceless thoughts to music:

4. Hence, all earthly treasure!

    Jesus is my Pleasure, Jesus is my Choice.

    Hence, all empty glory!

    Naught to me thy story

    Told with tempting voice.

    Pain or loss, Or shame or cross,

    Shall not from my Savior move me

    Since He deigns to love me. 

6. Hence, all fear and sadness!

    For the Lord of gladness, Jesus, enters in.

    Those who love the Father,

    Though the storms may gather,

    Still have peace within.

    Yea, whate'er I here must bear,

    Thou art still my purest Pleasure,

    Jesus, priceless Treasure!

    (Jesus, Priceless Treasure, Luther Service Book, CPH, 2006, #743)

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for being my truest Friend and my priceless treasure. Please help me to always remember this comforting truth, especially when the shiny bobbles of this world seem so alluring. Amen.

Pastor David Paape