Day 152 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 17; Psalm 121; 1 Corinthians 9:1-14)
“To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some.” (1 Corinthians 9:22 ESV)
“As founder of the Corinthian church, and as an apostle, Paul is perceived to have more “rights” than anyone else. Yet he consistently set an example for the Corinthians, encouraging them to put off their own rights in order to serve one another. This is taught and modeled by Jesus Himself. His death and resurrection transform our lives so that we do not seek our own good but the good of others.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 1959)
Yes, we find our divine model of service in Jesus.
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45 ESV)
Heavenly Father, thank You for ransoming my soul through Jesus. Please use me to be like Paul, and do whatever it takes to reach others 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 151 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 16:20-34; Psalm 120; 1 Corinthians 8)
“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (Matthew 5:38-39 ESV)
What is the natural response to being slapped in the face? We want to slap the other person back. However, Jesus has a far better response. “But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”
Responding in such a calm way to a physical slap is difficult. However, responding calmly to a verbal slab can be even more of challenge. We find this advice in Proverbs: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1 ESV)
May the Lord bless you with His strength so that you can resist the temptation to return slap for slap and slur for slur. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 150 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 16:1-19; Psalm 119:169-176; 1 Corinthians 7:25–40)
But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation. (James 5:12 ESV)
Sometimes it is really hard to figure out what the Bible is saying. That is not the case with today’s verse. Don’t swear! Don’t bring God in as your witness either. Instead, let your simple words speak for themselves without swearing or oath taking. Many times a simple “yes,” “no,” “ouch,” or “oh” will do just fine.
I remember walking into a convenience store at a gas station and hearing two men talking rather loudly. One of them was not merely swearing or making an inappropriate oath. He was blaspheming the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. After a brief prayer for wisdom that would prompt spiritually edifying words, I said to the men. “Isn’t it great that the One your are mentioning so often loves you more than you can ever imagine? May our Lord Jesus bless you both in every way. Have a great day.”
While what I said was more than a “yes” or “no,” it was said in a similar vein. No demeaning or derogatory words were shared, but simply a statement of the fact of Christ’s love for them.
Lord, please guide my speech today so that nothing foul or inappropriate can come our of my mouth. Instead, may the simple message of Your love flow through me 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 149 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 15:19–33; Psalm 119:161-168; 1 Corinthians 7:17–24)
“My times are in your hand.” (Psalm 31:15 ESV)
Time, like an ever-rolling stream,
Soon bears us all away;
We fly forgotten as a dream
Dies at the op'ning day.
(“Our God, Our Help in Ages Past,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #733 stanza 5)
While the hymn stanza portrays a sober view of time, our verse for today clearly comforts us with the assurance that our time is in God’s almighty hand. The comfort comes from knowing that God’s timing is always perfect.
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5 ESV)
When you take a careful look at your life, you will become aware of what I see in my life, namely, that God puts us in the right place at the right time for His right purpose.
Almighty God, thank You for Your perfect timing in my life, starting with my Baptism. In Your perfect time, grant me the gift of heaven for Jesus’ sake. Until that time, may I use my time for You and Your purposes. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 147 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 15:1–18; Psalm 119:153-160; 1 Corinthians 7:1–16)
“Six days work shall be done, but on the seventh day you shall have a Sabbath of solemn rest, holy to the Lord.” (Exodus 35:2 ESV)
On this Memorial Day set aside to remember our country’s war dead, we pause to honor them. In the verse quoted above we see that God is commanding us to pause on a weekly basis to remember Him. The day of rest has become much more hectic today. Still many do find time to pause in remembrance of Jesus, the One who died to make us all free spiritually.
While Jesus’ words from John 15:13 are often used for members of our military, their original intent is to focus our attention on Jesus. “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. “
Lord of the nations, thank You for America and for those who shed their blood so that I can be free. Thank You even more for Jesus who died to free me from sin, death and the devil. Please bless me with continued freedom in this land and with Your spiritual freedom today and forever. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 147 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 14:33-57; Psalm 119:145-152; 1 Corinthians 6)
So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:6-8 ESV)
Today is Trinity Sunday, the day in the church year when we emphasize the mystery of the Triune God. The triangle-shaped diagram attempts to explain how God can be three persons, “Father, Son and Holy Spirit” and still one.
In Acts 1, we notice the presence of all three persons in the Trinity.
Jesus is speaking. “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.”
He then goes on to tell us that we will be His witnesses. We are to witness to the truth that the one, true God is...
God the Father who created us,
God the Son who redeemed us,
God the Holy Spirit who sanctifies us.
In the words of today’s Prayer of the Day, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, One in Three and Three in One, accept our praise for gifting us with Your creation, redemption, and sanctification. Amen.
“See” you at the Communion table.
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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 146 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 14:1–32; Psalm 119:137-144; 1 Corinthians 5)
For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? (1 John 5:4-5 ESV)
Most people have faith in something. However, it is the object of one’s faith that matters. Faith in a broken-down old car will get you nowhere. Faith in your physical strength will not prove trustworthy as you age. Faith in your finances will not see you through the next financial crash.
Only faith in Jesus, your Savior, lasts. Faith in Christ produces eternal victory over the disappointments, struggles and weariness of this world. Thanks be to God who gives you saving faith in His Son via His Means of Grace.
Thank You, heavenly Father, for blessing me with a victorious faith in Jesus. Thank You for the victory over sin, death and the devil that comes to me only through Jesus. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 145 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 13:29-59; Psalm 119:129-136; 1 Corinthians 4)
“How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell... but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.” (James 3:5-10 ESV)
Over 20 years I ago I shared a Sunday message based on a text similar to this section from James. On their way home from church that morning, one of our moms asked her five year old son, “What did the pastor say this morning?” His answer was priceless: “I should keep my mouth shut.”
Have there ever been times when you could not believe what came out of your mouth? James is telling us that our words are too often not pleasing to God. Wishing others God’s blessings is surely God-pleasing. But too often, we do just the opposite.
Thank God that Jesus came to pay for all of our sins, including the sin of unholy talk and untamed tongues. And thank God for the example of Jesus. “When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.” (1 Peter 2:23 ESV)
Lord Jesus, please help me to follow Your lead and keep my mouth shut when my silence would be golden. At the same time, I ask You to give me the courage to open my mouth when I have the opportunity to share You with 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 144 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 13:1–28; Psalm 119:121-128; 1 Corinthians 3)
For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it. (1 Corinthians 3:11-13 ESV)
What is the foundation of your life? Just as a solid foundation is crucial to a well built house, so a solid spiritual foundation is crucial to a well built home.
Paul warns us against building on anything or any person than Jesus Christ. A building with a poor foundation may look fine at first, but the day will come when all could well come crashing down. So it is with your life unless Jesus is your foundation. The hymn writer put it this way:
My hope is build on nothing less
Than Jesus blood and righteousness.
No merit of my own I claim
But wholly lean on Jesus' name.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh may I them in Him be found,
Clothed in His righteousness alone,
Redeemed to stand before the throne!
On Christ the solid Rock I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
(My Hope Is Build on Nothing Less, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #575, stanzas 1&4)
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the solid foundation for all who believe in You. Please keep my feet safely planted on You so that I may stand redeemed before Your throne. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 143 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 12; Psalm 119:113-120; 1 Corinthians 2)
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 ESV)
Are you walking in the light? If so, that means that you are taking seriously the directions God’s gives us for such a walk. Listen to what David says a few verses later in chapter 119.
“Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble.”
Paul was forced to address those in the Corinthian church who were not walking in the light (1 Corinthians 5). In our permissive, anything-goes culture, his pronouncement seems rather harsh. Yet, the expulsion of the man living in sexual sin was meant to wake him up and save his soul. It was also meant to encourage the rest of God’s people to take seriously the call to walk in the light.
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
When I feel afraid, think I’ve lost my way, still You’re there right beside me,
And nothing will I fear as long as You are near. Please be near me to the end.
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
Now I will not forget Your love for me and yet My heart forever is wandering.
Jesus, be my guide and hold me to Your side, and I will love You to the end.
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
(Thy Word, Text, Amy grant, Tune, Michael W. Smith)
Almighty God, may the light of Your Word be my guiding light. May I daily walk in the light of the cross and so glorify You and be used to draw others to Jesus. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 142 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 11:29-47; Psalm 119:105-112; 1 Corinthians 1:18–31)
“For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18 ESV)
Thanks be to God for the powerful cross of Jesus!
“For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews and folly to the Greeks, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wider than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” (1 Corinthians 1:22-25 ESV)
So what is the be the conclusion for those who rely on the power of God?
“For I decided to know nothing among you except Christ and Him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2 ESV)
Do you cherish the wonderful message of the cross of Christ?
1. Upon the cross extended,
See, world, your Lord suspended;
Your Savior yields His breath.
The Prince of Life from heaven
Himself hath freely given
To shame and blows and bitter death.
7. Your cross I place before me,
Its saving pow'r restore me,
Sustain me in the test.
It will, when life is ending,
Be guiding and attending
My way to Your eternal rest.
(Upon the Cross Extended, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, # 453)
Dearest Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Yourself to me by means of Your cross. Receive this weak sinner and strengthen me for Your service. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 141 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 11:1-28; Psalm 119:97-104; 1 Corinthians 1:1–17)
God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:9 ESV)
Paul has just pointed out that the church in Corinth did not lack any spiritual gift as the Lord prepared them for eternity. He now makes it the clear that the reason for this blessing is the faithfulness of God.
This is precisely what we mean when we state that we are “blessed by the Lord.” Our faithful God has done it all for us. We sinners do not deserve it, yet God sent His Son to die for us on the cross. He claimed us as His own on the day of our baptism. He comes to us week in and week out in public worship where He feeds us with His Word and Sacraments. Ultimately He will take us home to be with Him at the end of our days.
What peace and joy are ours because God is faithful to us “poor miserable sinners.”
Great is Thy Faithfulness, O God my Fatherr,
There is no shadow of turning with Thee.
Thou changest not: Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.
Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
(Great Is Thy Faithfulness, Lutheran Service Book, #809)
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness. Please, mercifully, keep me faithful to 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 140 - (Today’s Bible readings: PENTECOST Ezekiel 37:1-14; Psalm 139; Acts 2:1-21; John 16:4–15)
“When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4 ESV)
Today is Pentecost, one of the great festivals of the Christian Church. On this day we celebrate God the Holy Spirit and the gift of saving faith that He bestows on all believers in Christ. Luther’s explanation to the Third Article of the Apostles’ Creed explains the work of the Holy Spirit this way:
The Third Article of the Apostles’ Creed - Sanctification
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.
What does this mean?
I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith. In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith. In this Christian church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers. On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ. This is most certainly true.
Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest,
And make our hearts Your place of rest;
Come with Your grace and heav'nly aid
And fill the hearts which You have made. Amen.
(Come, Holy Ghost, Creator Blest, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #498, stanza 1)
“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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 139 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 10; Psalm 119:89-96; Mark 16:1–20)
And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. (Mark 16:15-16 ESV)
● Jesus is giving each of us Christians our marching orders - Go and tell the good news.
“Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.”
● He is giving us our reason for living - lead others to Jesus.
● He is giving us a simple motivation - people must believe or face damnation.
“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”
Do you sense how crucial obedience to this command is for the souls of others?
How do we respond when we hear God’s command to “go and tell” today?
This little Gospel light of mine, I’m going to let it shine.
This little Gospel light of mine, I’m going to let it shine.
This little Gospel light of mine, I’m going to let it shine.
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine.
It will point the way to heaven, I’m going to let it shine.
It will point the way to heaven, I’m going to let it shine.
It will point the way to heaven, I’m going to let it shine.
Let it shine, all the time, let it shine.
Let’s look for opportunities to share Jesus with others and thereby point them to heaven.
Dearest Lord Jesus, thank You for granting me saving faith in You. Please use me to go and tell others so that they can also be saved and not condemned. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 138 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 9; Psalm 119:81-88; Mark 15:21-47)
My soul longs for your salvation;
I hope in your word. (Psalm 119:81 ESV)
David longed for deliverance from his enemies. When the going got rough, he turned to God. His hope and confidence were placed in the Word of the Lord.
Where do you turn when life gets rough for you? It is wise to follow David’s example. Perhaps you will not be delivered from trouble in this life. But with Jesus, you are guaranteed eternal salvation. Long for His salvation, put your hope in His Word, and trust, repent and rejoice!
Where do you turn? Jesus helped the disciples give us a crystal clear answer when he asked them if they wanted to leave Him too. May their answer be your answer too!
Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” (Jon 6:68-69 ESV)
Almighty God, I long for Your salvation. My hope is in You alone. Please use me to share this soul-saving hope with others. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 137 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 8:22–36; Psalm 119:65-80; Mark 15:1-20)
You have dealt well with your servant,
O Lord, according to your word. (Psalm 119:65 NIV)
Among the many blessings that God gives us in life is the gift of family. On this day, my family is celebrating the birth of my fishing buddy, Adam. For my wife and me, Adam and his sister Heidi, along with their spouses and children, are the joy of our life. God has truly dealt well with us!
What do you see in your life that affirms the fact that God is dealing well with you? Perhaps you don’t think that He is dealing well with you at all. However, look at this promise:
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 ESV)
Does that sound like God is dealing well with you? How about these words spoken by Peter on Pentecost?
And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:38 ESV)
The greatest of example of God’s dealing well with you is Jesus, your Savior!
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for dealing well with me by going to the cross in my place . 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 136 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 8:1-21; Psalm 119:57-64; Mark 14:43–72)
The earth is filled with your love, Lord;
teach me your decrees. (Psalm 119:64 NIV)
David states a fact: The world is filled with God’s love. Can you see it?
He then asks: “teach me your decrees.” Obviously, the Lord teaches us through His Word, the Bible. He also teaches us through the circumstances we face in life.
● The challenges you are facing today are meant to pull you closer to God.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)
● Are you looking for God’s good in your life?
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
● It is important to learn that God has a plan for your life, now and eternally!
Lord, thank You for Your great love for me. Please teach me to trust in You and Your plan for my life. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 135 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 7:11-38; Psalm 119:49-56; Mark 14:22–42)
49 Remember your word to your servant,
in which you have made me hope.
50 This is my comfort in my affliction,
that your promise gives me life. (Psalm 119:49-50 ESV)
“You promised.” These are the words of an individual urging someone else to remember something they had promised to do. David is doing the same thing with God. He is calling on God to remember His promises, promises that David was counting on. David goes on to list the reasons he was counting on God.
● Only God can give us real hope for our future on earth and our future in heaven.
● Only God can give us comfort no matter what afflictions may come upon us.
● Only God can give us a full life now and in eternity.
So, like David, we pray:
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, please remember me and bless my life with Your gift of eternal hope. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 134 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 6:14–7:10; Psalm 119:41-48; Mark 14:3–21)
Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” (Matthew 26:26-28 ESV)
The identification of Judas as a traitor, and Peter’s bold insistence that he would never deny Jesus, are both important accounts from the upper room. But it is Christ’s institution of the Lord’s Supper that has the greatest impact on our daily lives.
Week in and week out we gather in our churches to receive the body and blood of our Lord graciously given in, with and under the simple elements of bread and wine. Week in and week out, faithful pastors are privileged to serve this most precious meal to the people of God.
1. Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face;
Here would I touch and handle things unseen;
Here grasp with firmer hand the eternal grace,
And all my weariness upon Thee lean.
2. Here would I feed upon the bread of God,
Here drink with Thee the royal wine of heaven;
Here would I lay aside each earthly load,
Here taste afresh the calm of sin forgiven.
(“Here, O My Lord, I See Thee Face to Face,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, # 631, 1&2)
Lord, may Your body and Your blood, be for my soul the highest good. Please bless my weekly visits to Your house. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 133 - (Today’s Bible readings: Leviticus 5:14–6:13; Psalm 119:33-40; Mark 13:24–14:2)
STAY AWAKE
“But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come... Therefore stay awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning— lest he come suddenly and find you asleep. And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.” (Mark 13:32-37 ESV)
Throughout the years there have been many false prophets who have predicted Judgment Day. Biblically illiterate followers have sold their belongings and quit their jobs in anticipation of meeting the Lord on the date promised. How devastatingly disappointed they must have been when the date came and passed. If they would have read and believed what Jesus says about the end of the world, they would not have been duped.
“But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”
Knowing that the signs of the times seem to indicate that the end is coming soon, how should we occupy our remaining time on this earth? Luther answers: “Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.” What he is saying is that we should be about living out the vocations and lives God has given us. At the same time, he would surely also echo Jesus’ warning:
“Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come.... And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.”
♬ 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.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, Concordia Publishing House, 1941, #605)
Almighty God, may I be found prepared when Jesus returns to judge the living and the dead. To this end, mercifully continue to feed me with Your word of Law that condemns me and Your word of Gospel that reveals how Jesus paid for all of my sins on the cross. May I spend my remaining time on earth in Your service, sharing You with other sinners who need Your mercy just as desperately as I do. 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 form 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://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2018 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
