Sunday, November 12, 2023 - DON’T GO BACK TO THE MIRE

"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, November 12, 2023 - Day 316  - (Today’s Bible readings: Daniel 6:1-7:8; Psalm 119:49-56; 2 Peter 2:10-22)

DON’T GO BACK TO THE MIRE

“For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them.  What the true proverb says has happened to them: ‘The dog returns to its own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire.’” (2 Peter 2:21-22 ESV)

The picture, as well as the verse are crucial reminders of the importance of being prepared for Christ’s Second Advent, His coming on Judgement Day. I often remind the children to:  Always, always, always, always, always, always, stay close to your Jesus. 

The picture of the sow wallowing in the mire is meant to wake you up. Don’t go back to the mire! Don’t turn your back on Jesus and return to a self-centered life of sin.

Instead, go to church every week, especially in the upcoming Advent and Christmas seasons. Hear what the Lord wants to teach you. Hear His Word calling you to repent of your sins and His declaration of forgiveness. “Run” to the altar to receive Christ’s precious body and blood given and shed for you!

1. Chief of sinners though I be,  

    Jesus shed His blood for me;

    Died that I might live on high, 

    Lives that I might never die.

    As the branch is to the vine, 

    I am His and He is mine.

2. Oh the height of Jesus' love!  

    Higher than the heav'ns above,

    Deeper than the depths of sea, 

    Lasting as eternity.

    Love that found me -  wondrous thought!  

    Found me when I sought Him not.

5. O my Savior, help afford 

    By Your Spirit and Your Word!

    When my wayward heart would stray, 

    Keep me in the narrow way;

    Grace in time of need supply 

    While I live and when I die.

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

Heavenly Father, please keep me out of the mire by keeping me close to You. Feed me with Your precious Word and Sacraments and strengthen my faith. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape