Thursday, February 1, 2024 - ARE YOU LISTENING TO YOUR TEACHER?

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

Thursday, February 1, 2024 - Day 32 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 27,28 Matthew 21:23-46)

ARE YOU LISTENING TO YOUR TEACHER?

“What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ And he answered, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went. And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you.”   (Matthew 21:28-31 ESV)

Jesus, the consummate teacher, is using one of His favorite teaching methods, the parable. This earthly story is very easy to understand, especially if you are a parent. It is not uncommon for our children to say that they will do what we expect them to do, only to never seem to get around to it. How precious are the rare occasions when the child refused to obey, but later relents and carries out what you had wanted him or her to do in the first place. Obviously, you are pleased with the obedient one, regardless of what the first response may have been.

The spiritual meaning is one that we church people need to listen to carefully. It is too easy to become complacent, to foolishly take comfort in having our names on a church membership roster, or relying on our feeble accomplishments to get us into heaven. The reality is that God is calling repentant sinners and not self-righteous pharisees.  

REPENTANCE AND FAITH

The purpose of the parable is to call us to genuine Christianity, and that means faith in Christ, and repentance of sin, revealed in the attempt to amend our sin-filled lives.

   

   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, 

    The Lutheran Hymnal, CPH 1941, #349, stanza 5)

Heavenly Father, may the Holy Spirit work genuine faith in me that is revealed in heartfelt repentance. May I never forget how desperately I need Your unmerited forgiveness. May I show my thankfulness by living the rest of my life for You. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Wednesday, January 31, 2024 - PROPHECIES FULFILLED

 

"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, January 31, 2024 - Day 31 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 25,26; Matthew 21:1-22)

PROPHECIES FULFILLED

Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Bethphage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, “Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will send them at once.” This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying, 

“Say to the daughter of Zion,

‘Behold, your king is coming to you,

humble, and mounted on a donkey,

on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.’”   (Matthew 21:1-5 ESV)

Why do we believe the Bible? The Holy Spirit works faith in us through its sacred pages. It should not be surprising, since it is God’s Word, that it is in sync with what we know of the world around us. What is surprising is the fact that over 300 Old Testament prophecies have been fulfilled in the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

“This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet . . . “

The word fulfill / fulfilled occurs over fifty times in the New Testament.

 This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt I called my son.” (Matthew 2:15 ESV)

Because all of the prophecies about our Savior are true, you can trust His prophecy for you and for all who repent and trust in Him!

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26 ESV)

Yes, because Jesus is THE prophecy fulfiller, you can sing / confess these words with complete confidence:

Lord, let at last Thine angels come,

To Abr’ham’s bosom bear me home,

That I may die unfearing;

And in its narrow chamber keep

My body safe in peaceful sleep

Until Thy reappearing.

And then from death awaken me,

That these mine eyes with joy may see,

O Son of God, Thy glorious face,

My Savior and my fount of grace.

Lord Jesus Christ, my prayer attend, my prayer attend,

And I will praise Thee without end.

  (Lord, Thee I Love with All My Heart, Lutheran Service Book, 

  Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #708, stanza 3)

Lord Jesus, thank You for fulfilling every single prophecy of the Father’s long promised Messiah / Savior. May I remain faithful to You for the rest of my life so that Your prophecy of eternal life for all who trust in You will be fulfilled in me. Please use me to share this with other sinners, so that they, too, may see this prophecy fulfilled in them. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Tuesday, January 30, 2024 - WIRED TO SERVE

"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, January 30, 2024 - Day 30 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 22-24; Matthew 20:17-34)

WIRED TO SERVE

But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”   (Matthew 20:25-28 ESV)

Why are we here? What is life all about? Many folks believe that since you only go around once, you had better look out for good old number one. Life is all about the person you see in the mirror. To a certain extent this describes everyone. It certainly was on the mind of the mother of James and John. 

This is another teachable moment for you and me. Jesus’ words are clear: “It shall not be so among you.” Followers of Christ get to serve God by serving others. He goes so far as to say that we must be servants, even slaves of those in need among us. As Christians living for Him, we get to. . . 

● feed the hungry (those suffering from physical and spiritual hunger)

● clothe those in need

● visit the ill, the lonely, the imprisoned

● seek out the erring, the distressed, the hopeless

● bring Christian cheer to the broken-hearted

● and so many other opportunities.

   Forgive us, Lord, for selfish thanks and praise, 

   For words that speak at variance with deeds;

   Forgive our thanks for walking pleasant ways 

   Unmindful of a broken brother’s needs.

    (Forgive Us, Lord, for Shallow Thankfulness, Lutheran Service Book, #788, stanza 3)

We are saved by faith in Christ for eternal life in heaven. Until then, we have a job to do--serve Him by serving others. That means that we are wired to serve.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the undeserved gift of my salvation in Christ. Thank You also for wiring me for the joy of serving You by serving others. Please open my eyes and my heart to a world in need all around me. And then use me to meet as many needs as possible for You and Your kingdom. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Monday, January 29, 2024 - GOD’S NOT FAIR

 

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

Monday, January 29, 2024 - Day 29 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 19-21; Matthew 20:1-16)

GOD’S NOT FAIR

Now when those hired first came, they thought they would receive more, but each of them also received a denarius. And on receiving it they grumbled at the master of the house, saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.’ But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ So the last will be first, and the first last.”   (Matthew 20:10-16 ESV)

1)  Billy got a bigger piece of pie than I did. IT’S NOT FAIR.

2)  The new guy got the promotion. IT’S NOT FAIR.

3)  Supposedly he was converted to Christ just before he died. IT’S NOT FAIR.

A lot of things in life are not fair. That is just a reality of life. As for the third example, it is right. It is not fair that a person could be saved just before they die. 

We need to remember that God is not fair with ANY OF US. Yes, God’s not fair, and that’s a good thing. If He dealt fairly with us, we would all be heading for hell. Instead, all believers in Christ have received what we do NOT deserve, the forgiveness of our many sins and the totally undeserved promise of heaven.

   By grace I'm saved, grace free and boundless;

   My soul, believe and doubt it not.

   Why stagger at this word of promise?

   Hath Scripture ever falsehood taught?

   No! Then this word must true remain;

   By grace you too will life obtain.

   (Lutheran Service Book, #566, stanza 1)

Heavenly Father, thank You for not being fair to me and giving me what I deserve. I praise You for sending Jesus to suffer the torments of hell for sinners like me. Help me every day to remember, celebrate and share Your free and boundless grace. In Jesus’ saving name.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Sunday, January 28, 2024 - A FAILED TEST

 

"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, January 28, 2024 - Day 28 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 16-18; Matthew 19:16-30)

A FAILED TEST

And behold, a man came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” He said to him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man said to him, “All these I have kept. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.  (Matthew 19:16-22 ESV)

The normal sound on your television is replaced with the sound of an annoying buzzer and a note crawling across the bottom of the screen informing that this is test of the emergency broadcast system. THIS IS A TEST, IT IS ONLY A TEST.

A test is exactly what the Lord was giving on this day. Sadly, the rich young man failed the test. He refused to let go of his stuff and trust Jesus.

While Job had no say in the loss of his possessions and loved one, he still passed the test. After putting God first, God blessed him.

Solomon was tested when the Lord offered him a “blank check.” He chose wisdom instead of wealth and power. After he put God first, God blessed him.

The disciples were tested and responded by leaving everything and following Jesus. After they put God first, God blessed him.

The ultimate test is whether or not you are perfect. Since we are all sinners and therefore imperfect, we need some help. The answer is to rely only on Jesus and not on anything we have or anything we have done.

So let’s look to “Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross.” (Hebrews 12:2 ESV)

We look to Jesus who passed the test for us and purchased the forgiveness of our sins.

Lord Jesus, thank You for passing the perfection test for me on Mt. Calvary. Help me to put my complete trust in You and not in the things of this life. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Saturday, January 27, 2024 - PATIENT PRAYING

 

"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, January 27, 2024 - Day 27 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 13-15; Matthew 19:1-15)

PATIENT PRAYING 

“Make me to know your ways, O Lord;

    teach me your paths.

Lead me in your truth and teach me,

    for you are the God of my salvation;

    for you I wait all the day long.” (Psalm 25:4-5 ESV) 

“David prays, ‘For You I wait all the day long.’ God promises to answer prayer, but we may be impatient or tempted to question His answers.  Even when our faithfulness fails, God is faithful.  He hears our prayers and truly acts for our good.  In faith, we patiently wait for Him.”  (Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 867) 

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

And although the way be cheerless,

We will follow calm and fearless.  

Guide us by Thy hand to our fatherland.

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

When temptations come alluring,

Make us patient and enduring;  

Show us that bright shore where we weep no more.

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

God of my salvation, open my eyes to Your path and Your truth. Please grant me the patience to wait for You and the faith to believe Your promises. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Friday, January 26, 2024 - NEVER ENDING FORGIVENESS

 

"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, January 26, 2024 - Day 26 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 11,12; Matthew 18:21-35)

NEVER ENDING FORGIVENESS

Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times. 

 ..... ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me. And should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’  And in anger his master delivered him to the jailers, until he should pay all his debt. So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.  (Matthew 18:21-35 ESV)

The parable of the unforgiving servant teaches us that God expects us to forgive one another just as He has forgiven us. Here are a couple of key thoughts:

● How great is the debt of sin that you owe to God?

● How do your sins of thought, word and deed compare with whatever someone else has done to you?

● Isn’t it true that the parable accurately describes how we tend to minimize our sin and maximize the sins of others?

So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart. 

● Where do we find the power to forgive when someone “sins” against us?

And you, who were dead in your trespasses ..., God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. (Colossians 2:13-14 ESV)

● Because of what Jesus did for us on the cross, paying for all of our sins, we can now forgive others.

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your unending forgiveness granted to this penitent sinner. Help me to forgive others just as You have forgiven me. In Your saving name, O Lord. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Thursday, January 25, 2024 - FAITH LIKE A CHILD

 

"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, January 25, 2024 - Day 25 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 9,10; Matt. 18:1-20)

FAITH LIKE A CHILD

At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."  (Matthew 11:1-4 ESV)

“I am the greatest.” Many of us immediately think of Mohammad Ali and his declaration of his dominance of heavyweight boxing. He backed up those words impressively in the boxing ring.

Jesus provides us a different picture of greatest, one that is the opposite of earthly greatness. His  intension is to engender humility in His followers. His disciples then and now are in great need of this reminder.

A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest.  (Luke 22:24 ESV) 

Jesus hits them with the clear message that a simple trusting child is greater than they are.

“Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” 

Jesus is calling us to turn from our narcissistic notions of grandeur and live our lives humbly for Him. It is in genuine Christian humility that God sees “greatness.” In other words, greatness comes from humbly and sincerely repenting of our sins and relying entirely on the Lord for forgiveness, eternal life, and life on this earth as well.

♬ Nothing in my hand I bring, 

    Simply to Thy cross I cling.

    Naked come to Thee for dress; 

    Helpless look to Thee for grace;

    Foul I to the fountain fly; 

    Wash me Savior, or I die.

    (Lutheran Service Book, #761 v. 3)

Christian humility comes from knowing that almighty God has chosen you to be His precious, blood-bought, baptized, forgiven, heaven-bound and gifted child.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your great love that has accepted the death of Jesus as payment for my sins. You truly are the greatest! Please help me to humbly live a life that will  help others also repent and believe in Jesus as their Savior. In His saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Wednesday, January 24, 2024 - PERSISTENT AND HUMBLE PRAYER

"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, January 24, 2024 - Day 24 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 7,8; Matthew 17)

PERSISTENT AND HUMBLE PRAYER

And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon.” But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying out after us.” He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.” And he answered, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Then Jesus answered her, “O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed instantly.  (Matthew 15:22-28 ESV)

The Canaanite woman gives us an excellent example of persistent and humble prayer. She asks Jesus to have mercy and respond to her daughter’s desperate need. Even though she receives no answer, she continues to cry out for healing. When reminded that she was not of the house of Israel, she responds with a humble analogy. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs from their masters’ table.” Her persistence pays off and her daughter is healed.

●  What do you do when the Lord doesn’t seem to answer your prayers?

●  Are your prayers peppered with humility? “I don’t deserve _____, but please have mercy on me too.”

Remember God’s promise to you: “Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.” (Psalm 50:15 ESV)

   O Lord, hear my prayer,

   O Lord, hear my prayer;

   When I call answer me.

   O Lord, hear my prayer,

   O Lord, hear my prayer;

   Come and listen to me.

   (“O Lord, Hear My Prayer,”  Lutheran Service Book #780)

Lord, may I, like the Canaanite woman, be blessed with a great faith that trusts in You not only for this life, but even more so, for the life that is to come. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Tuesday, January 23, 2024 - WHO IS 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)

Tuesday, January 23, 2024 - Day 23 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Exodus 4-6; Matthew 16)

WHO IS JESUS?

“Who do you say that the Son of Man is?”  (Matthew 16:13 ESV)

The disciples answered Jesus’ question, but not to His satisfaction. 

14 And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” 

Peter gives THE answer.

16 Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

How about you? How do you answer this question?

Martha was asked a similar question in John chapter 11:

 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” 

27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.”

Who is Jesus to you? 

“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.” (The Explanation to the Second Article of The Apostles’ Creed)

   1. Beautiful Savior, King of creation, 

Son of God and Son of Man!

Truly I'd love thee, Truly I'd serve thee, 

Light of my soul, my joy, my crown.

   2. Fair are the meadows, Fair are the woodlands, 

Robed in flow'rs of blooming spring;

Jesus is fairer, Jesus is purer, 

He makes our sorr'wing spirit sing.

   3. Fair is the sunshine, Fair is the moonlight, 

Bright the sparkling stars on high;

Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer, 

Than all the angels in the sky.

   4. 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 # 537)

Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Savior of my soul. Please use me to introduce many others to You so that they, too, may know who You are and may come to saving faith in You. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Monday, January 22, 2024 - HEART DISEASE

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

Monday, January 22, 2024 - Day 22 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Genesis 49,50; Matthew15:1-20)

HEART DISEASE

“For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.”  (Matthew 15:19 ESV)

Over 600,000 people die from heart disease in America every year. That’s one out of every four deaths.

But there is another form of heart disease that is far more deadly. It kills 100% of its victims. This is what Jesus is referring to in today’s verse. 

“For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.”

There are some who would say that people are basically good. That is not what Jesus says. Nor is what we know from first hand experience.

David identifies the only cure for this kind of heart disease:

“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.” (Psalm 51: 10-11 ESV)

God answered this prayer for mercy with the cross of Christ. Our spiritual heart disease was cured on Good Friday.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for healing my spiritual heart disease by means of Your bitter suffering and death on the cross. Please keep me safe in that saving faith. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Sunday, January 21, 2024 - FORMED BY 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, January 21, 2024 - Day 21

FORMED BY GOD

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,

    before you were born I set you apart."   (Jeremiah 1:5a NIV)

What a perfect reminder for Sanctity of Human Life Sunday

●  God formed you in your mother’s womb.

●  He has known you even before you were conceived.

●  God has a plan for your life. You have been set apart for God’s purposes.

In the Psalms, David emphasizes the same Biblical truth:

13 For you created my inmost being;

    you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

    your works are wonderful,

    I know that full well.

15 My frame was not hidden from you

    when I was made in the secret place,

    when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.

16 Your eyes saw my unformed body;

    all the days ordained for me were written in your book

    before one of them came to be. (Psalm 139:13-16 NIV)

   1. Jesus loves the little children, 

All the children of the world;

Red and yellow, black and white, 

They are precious in His sight.

Jesus loves the little children of the world.

   2. Jesus loves His precious children, 

All the children of the world;

Born and unborn all alike, 

They are precious in His sight.

Jesus loves His precious children of the world.

   3. Jesus loves His special children, 

All the children of the world; 

Doesn’t matter what their age, 

Aptitude He does not gauge.

Jesus loves His special children of the world.

   4. Jesus died for all the children, 

All the children of the world;

Young and old, we’re all alike, 

We are precious in His sight.

Jesus died for all the children of the world.

   5. Jesus rose for all the children, 

All the children of the world;

Born and unborn, young and old. 

On the cross His love He told;

Now He lives for ALL the children of the world.                                                                          

Lord of life, may all come to understand that You are the Author of all life.  I thank You for my physical life and for the spiritual life You have blessed me with on the day of my Baptism. Please bless all human life. In Jesus’ saving name.  Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Saturday, January 20, 2024 - REACH OUT TO 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, January 20, 2024 - Day 20 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Genesis 46-48; Matthew 14:22-36)

REACH OUT TO JESUS

But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” 

  And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”  (Matthew 14:27-33 ESV)

The familiar account has much that applies to our everyday lives.

1. How should we respond to fear?

        Listen to Jesus: “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.”

2. How should we respond to His advice?

Obey Jesus: So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus.

3. What should we do when we are in over our heads?

Cry out to Jesus:  “Lord, save me.”

4. What should we do when He does save us?

Worship Jesus: “Truly you are the Son of God.” 

So, believe and be saved.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for saving me by dying on the cross in payment for my sins. Grant me faith to trust You, even when You call me to get out of the boat. Please use me to help others know that You are the Son of God and the Savior of our souls. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Friday, January 19, 2024 - THE TABLE IS SET FOR YOU

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

Friday, January 19, 2024 - Day 19 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Genesis 44,45; Matthew 14:1-21)

THE TABLE IS SET FOR YOU

16 But Jesus said, “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” 17 They said to him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” 18 And he said, “Bring them here to me.” 19 Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass, and taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing. Then he broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. 20 And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. 21 And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.  (Matthew 14:16-21 ESV)

“They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” Jesus said those words in preparation for His miraculous feeding of the 5,000. It was truly a miracle! Five loaves and two fish actually fed all of those people, with twelve baskets full left over.

Would you like to have been there to witness that amazing event?

You do have the opportunity to witness another amazing event. Our Lord Jesus provides an even more miraculous meal for us. In, with and under simple bread and wine, Jesus serves us His true body and blood, given and shed for the forgiveness of our sins.

  Draw near and take the body of the Lord,

  And drink the holy blood for you outpoured;

  Offered was He for greatest and for least,

  Himself the victim and Himself the priest.

  (Lutheran Service Book, CPH, # 637, stanza 1)

Dearest Lord Jesus, thank You for inviting me to Your table. I believe that You died in payment for my sins. I sincerely repent of them. Lord, may Your body and You blood be for my soul the highest good. Amen.

"See" you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Thursday, January 18, 2024 - THE DRAGNET

"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, January 18, 2024 - Day 18 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Genesis 42,43; Matthew 13:33-58)

THE DRAGNET

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad.  So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”  (Matthew 13:47-50 ESV)

There are two definitions to the word “dragnet.”

1) A series of actions that are done by the police in order to catch criminals.

2) A net that is pulled along the bottom of a river, lake, pond, etc., to search for or collect something.

The old Dragnet TV series from the 50's and 60's was based on the first definition. Our text is based on both definitions. When, at the end of the age (Judgement Day) all people have been “apprehended,” there will be a separation of the evil from the righteous. All people will be in either one or the other category. What changes evil sinners into righteous saints?”

“The blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  (I John 1:7b-9 ESV)

How are people to respond to the impending dragnet?

First... 

  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? 

  (The Lutheran Hymnal, CPH 1941, # 349, stanzas 4-5)

Second...  “Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.” (2 Thessalonians 3;15 ESV) 

Do you know anyone who is in danger of being thrown into the fiery furnace of hell? Pray for them and look for a chance to tell them how much your Jesus means to you.

Heavenly Father, help me to continue to repent of my sins and believe in my Savior. Until You call me home to heaven, please use me to warn others so that they, too, can be Yours forever. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 - ARE YOU GOOD SOIL?

 

"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, January 17, 2024 - Day 17 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Genesis 41;Matt.13:1-32)

ARE YOU GOOD SOIL?

“As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”  (Matthew 13:23 ESV)

In the 13th chapter of Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus teaches us via the parable of the sower. There is seed that does not live up to its potential. It falls on bad ground, on a path, or is overcome by weeds. Yet there is also seed that does live up to its potential. This seed has fallen on good soil.

● The SEED is the Word of God, the means by which the Lord teaches us His Law and Gospel.

● The SOIL refers to all in whom the Word takes root. By the grace of God, this means you and me.

● The SOWER is the One who plants His Word in our hearts, souls and minds.

♬ Thy strong Word be-speaks us righteous; 

Bright with Thine own holiness,

Glorious now, we press toward glory, 

And our lives our hopes confess.

Alleluia, alleluia!  

Praise to Thee who light dost send!

Alleluia, alleluia!  

Alleluia without end!

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, #578 stanza 3)

Heavenly Father, thank Your for Your divine Word. Thank You for the Law that shows me my sins and my desperate need for Your forgiveness. And thank You for the Gospel that shows me Your great love in sending Jesus to be my Savior. May my life now bear abundant fruit as I live for You. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Tuesday, January 16, 2024 - HOW CAN I DO THIS GREAT WICKEDNESS?

 

"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, January 16, 2024 - Day 16 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Genesis 38-40; Matt. 12:22-50)

HOW CAN I DO THIS GREAT WICKEDNESS?

“How can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?”  (Genesis 39:9 ESV)

How do you handle temptation? Is your answer in line with Joseph or with Alfred P. Doolittle? Doolittle is a character who sings the following in the musical My Fair Lady:

Oh, you can walk the straight and narrow;

But with a little bit of luck You'll run amuck!

The gentle sex was made for man to marry,

To share his nest and see his food is cooked.

The gentle sex was made for man to marry-but

With a little bit of luck, With a little bit of luck,

You can have it all and not get hooked.

With a little bit...with a little bit...

With a little bit of luck you won't get hooked.

Potiphar’s wife was looking for a little bit of luck with Joseph. What she found was a faithful follower of almighty God whose response to her advances provides us words we would do well to use whenever temptation comes our way.

“How can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” 

No matter what the temptation may be, Joseph’s words work. They certainly worked for Joseph. Even though he was unjustly sent to prison, “the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.” (Genesis 39:21 ESV)

Here is a far better musical example to follow:

Let us ever walk with Jesus,

Follow His example pure,

Flee the world, which would deceive us

And to sin our souls allure.

Ever in His footsteps treading,

Body here, yet soul above,

Full of faith and hope and love,

Let us do the Father's bidding.

Faithful Lord, abide with me;

Savior, lead, I follow Thee.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #684)

Heavenly Father, please strengthen me by means of Your Word and Sacraments to flee from temptation as Joseph did. Yes, protect me from the wicked, sinners and scoffers. When I do sin, please have mercy on me and forgive me for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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