November 1, 2018 - FOR ALL THE SAINTS

Day 305 - (Today’s Bible readings: Revelation 7:9-17; Psalm 149; 1 John 3:1-3; Matthew 5:1-12)

After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” (Revelation 7:9-10 ESV)

This is All Saints Day, a day set aside to remember our loved ones and all who have died in the faith and are now with the Lord. However, the believers in heaven are not the only saints. “Sainthood” does not require a long, drawn out human vetting process. 

“And they shall be my people, and I will be their God.”  (Jeremiah 32:38 )

What it takes is God declaring we are His by means of a new covenant, one that fulfills the demands of the first covenant (be perfect and you will live forever with God).

“For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” (Hebrews 8:12)

The new covenant is all about Jesus and His cross. It is all about sinners made saints through Jesus’ blood and righteousness. It is about God’s unconditional forgiveness of penitent sinners making them/us His saints. Therefore we can sing:

1. For all the saints, who from their labors rest, 
Who Thee by faith before the world confessed,
Thy Name, O Jesus, be forever blessed. Alleluia, Alleluia!

4. O blest communion, fellowship divine!  
We feebly struggle, they in glory shine;
Yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine. Alleluia, Alleluia!

8. From earth’s wide bounds, from ocean’s farthest coast, 
Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host,
Singing to Father, Son and Holy Ghost: Alleluia, Alleluia!
(For All the Saints, The Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, # 677)

Heavenly Father, thank You for leading me to see the big picture on this day - the countless host, and being one with those who are now with You in heaven. Thank You for forgiving my sin and making this sinner another one of Your saints. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 31, 2018 - REFORMATION 501

Day 304 - (Today’s Bible readings: Rev 14:6-7; Psalm 46; Romans 3:19-28; John 8:31-36) 

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36 ESV)

Today is Reformation Day 501, the 501st anniversary of the day that Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. This picture was taken exactly one year ago when I had the privilege of actually being there for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. What a special experience!

In our Bible verse for today, Jesus is revealing the special experience that is at the heart of the Reformation and all genuine Christianity. Luther was used by the Lord to return the glorious Gospel. The good news that Luther discovered in the Bible is that we sinners are set free from the punishment and slavery of sin, death and the devil. 

Do you understand how precious this freedom is for you? Believers know that the best is yet to come. This is what Luther was getting at in the last stanza of his famous Reformation hymn, A Mighty Fortress.

The Word they still shall let remain 

 Nor any thanks have for it;
He's by our side upon the plain 

 With His good gifts and Spirit.
And take they our life, 

 Goods, fame, child, and wife.
Though these all be gone,

 Our vict’ry has been won;
The Kingdom ours remaineth.
(“A Mighty Fortress,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH #656)

Heavenly Father, You sent Your Son, Jesus Christ, to free us from our enslavement to sin. Help us to abide in Your Word and bring others by Your Holy Spirit into the Body of Christ, so that every nation, tribe, language, and people will know the saving power of Christ and His resurrection. Through the same Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now 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 from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 30, 2018 - YOU CAN RUN BUT YOU CAN’T HIDE

Day 303 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 33, Psalm 114; Luke 18:31-43)

On June 9, 1946 Joe Louis, considered to be one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time, was asked, "If he (Billy Conn) runs, will you chase him?" Joe responded, “He can run, but he can’t hide.”  

Ever since Adam and Eve fell into sin, people have been trying to hide from God.  It didn’t work then, and it doesn’t work now, as Elihu reminds Job:

“For his eyes are on the ways of a man, and he sees all his steps.  There is no gloom or deep darkness where evildoers may hide themselves.” (Job 34:21-22 ESV)

While God’s omnipresence (His presence everywhere) is a warning to all sinners, it is also a comfort to all forgiven followers of Christ.  Jesus put it this way:

“Behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20 ESV) 

Jesus and His forgiving mercy are with you wherever you go.

Lord, thank You for the warning and the comfort of Your Word.  Help me to see the wisdom of not running from You, but running to You instead for forgiveness and peace.  May the fact that You know every aspect of my life be a source of comfort as I trust You to lead and direct me today.  Amen.

Don’t run from God. Run to Him!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 29, 2018 - BLESSED IS THE NAME OF THE LORD

Day 302 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 32; Psalm 113; Luke 18:15-30)

“Blessed is the name of the Lord from this time forth and forevermore.” (Psalm 113:2 ESV)

Names of famous people are remembered for a long time. Abraham Lincoln, Bob Hope, Ty Cobb, Amelia Earhart and Albert Einstein are a few of the multitude of famous people. Mention one of the names, and that persons life comes to mind. However, there is one name that is above all other names.

“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”  (Acts 4:12 ESV)

The name of Jesus means everything to us. 
●  He paid for our sins and secured our eternal salvation by means of His death on the cross.
●  He is with you now, watching over you and guiding you.
●  He guarantees you an eternal future with Him in heaven.

How sweet the Name of Jesus sounds
In a believer’s ear!
It soothes our sorrow, heals our wounds,
And drives away our fear. 

It makes the wounded spirit whole,
And calms the troubled breast;
’Tis manna to the hungry soul,
And to the weary rest. 

O Jesus, shepherd, guardian, friend, My Prophet, Priest, and King;
My Lord, my life, my way, my end, Accept the praise I bring. Amen.
     (Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, # 524)

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 28, 2018 - LORD HAVE MERCY

Day 301 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 31:16-40; Psalm 112; Luke 18:1-14)

He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt:  “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”  (Luke 18:9-14 ESV)

The point of the parable is clear. God calls us to honestly admit our sinfulness and seek His mercy. While this is not the way we proud and self-centered “Pharisees” want to go through life, it is the only way to be saved. When we repent of our sins and seek God’s mercy, for the sake of Jesus, we are forgiven and restored.

There is no wiggle room here. Humble yourself, repent, and seek God’s mercy!

God, be merciful to me, a sinner. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

“See” you at the Communion table this morning!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 27, 2018 -

Day 300 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 31:1-15; Psalm 111; Luke 17:20-37)

PASSING THE TEST

“God has cast me into the mire,
    and I have become like dust and ashes.
 I cry to you for help and you do not answer me;
    I stand, and you only look at me.” (Job 30:19-20 ESV)

“Martin Luther believed God allowed Job’s suffering to test his faith.  When we feel such trials, we, too, can be comforted knowing that God is not punishing us because of our sin, but is strengthening our faith through testing.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 822)

This is precisely what Peter explains in his first epistle:

“In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith - more precious than gold that perishes though tested by fire - may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:6-7 ESV)

Lord, when my faith is tested, please give me the strength to withstand it.  No matter what I may face in life, may I bring honor to Your name, and thereby pass the test. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 26, 2018 - REJOICE, EVEN THOUGH...

Day 299 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 30; Psalm 110; Luke 17:1-19)

“And now my soul is poured out within me; days of affliction have taken hold of me.”  (Job 30:16 ESV)

Are you going through a rough time in your life?  Do you feel like God has forsaken you?  Job would say, “Join the club.”  Job was God-fearing, guiltless, and faithful.  Then why did God allow the tragedies to come into his life?  We find the answer in the letter to the Hebrews:

“For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”  (Hebrews 12:6 ESV) You may want to check out the rest of this section, Hebrews 12:4-12.

So what do those who are loved by God do in the middle of their Job-like struggles?  We take Paul’s advice:

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”  (Romans 12:12 ESV)

Lord, please help me to be hopeful and patient in the midst of my tribulations. May my hope be grounded in all that You have done for me.  Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 25, 2018 - HOLD ON

Day 298 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 29; Psalm 109:21-31; Luke 16:14-31)

“I hold fast my righteousness and will not let it go.”  (Job 27:6 ESV)
  
“Job’s faith in God grows stronger in the face of his difficulties, just as iron is strengthened on the anvil and in the forge.  No matter what befalls him, Job entrusts all things to his creator.” (Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 815) 

What do you do when things go wrong?

What do you do when life gets rough?

What do you do when you feel like you can’t hang on anymore?

Job would answer: “Hold on.” Actually the One who is holding on is God. Do you remember how Peter was rescued from the waves?

Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?”  (Matthew 14:31 ESV)

Precious Lord, take my hand,
Lead me on, let me stand,
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn;
Through the storm, through the night,
Lead me on to the light:
Take my hand, precious Lord,
Lead me home.
(Precious Lord, Take My Hand, The Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #739 stanza 1)

Lord Jesus, no matter what struggles I may have to face in this earthly life, hold on to me and lead me through each day right up to my best day when You have promised to lead me home to heaven. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 24, 2018 - FAITHFUL OR DISHONEST?

Day 297 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 28; Psalm 109:1-20; Luke 16:1-13)

“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much... No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” (Luke 16:10 and 13 ESV)

Jesus is here asking you if you are faithful or dishonest when it comes to your relationship with others. Those who know you best can answer this question for you. 

However, there is a bigger question: Are you faithful or dishonest when it comes to your relationship with God? Is God first in your life? Remember, you cannot serve two masters. “You cannot serve God and money.”

Paul gave the similar advice to young Timothy: 
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.” (1 Timothy 6:10 ESV)

May we be devoted to Jesus and not to the things of this world.

Lord Jesus, please keep me faithful to You by putting You first today and everyday. Thank You for motivating to live for You because of the fact that You died for me, for my forgiveness and for my eternal future. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 23, 2018 - OUR GRACIOUS FATHER

Day 296 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 27; Psalm 108; Luke 15:11-32)

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” (Luke 15:20  ESV)

The prodigal son had talked his father into giving him his share of the inheritance early so that he could go out on his own. He had squandered his wealth and found himself in dire straights. This reminds us of how we have treated our heavenly Father.

The rest of the story reveals how our heavenly Father has mercifully responded to us. “While he was still a long way off....” The father had been looking for his long-lost son, watching every day, and hoping he would return. When he did return, we get this explanation for his great joy. “It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.”  (Luke 15:32  ESV)

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound 
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost but now am found, 
Was blind but now I see!

Heavenly Father, thank You seeking me out and graciously restoring me as Your child through the innocent suffering and death of Jesus. Yes, thank You for Your amazing grace.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 22, 2018 - CONFESSION AND FORGIVENESS

Day 295 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 26; Psalm 107:23-43; Luke 15:1-10)

“How then can man be in the right before God?
    How can he who is born of woman be pure?” (Job 25:4)

“The brevity of this last speech by Job’s friends (Job 25) shows they have finally run out of arguments.  Bildad’s speech is a good sermon for Job and for everyone.  He calls us to humility and contrition before God.  We can offer no defense for ourselves and for our sins; we must throw ourselves entirely on God’s mercy.”  (Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 814) 

“I, a poor miserable sinner, confess unto You all my sins and iniquities with which I have ever offended You ... But I am heartily sorry for them and sincerely repent of them....” (Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, page 184) 

We can throw ourselves entirely on God’s mercy because He promise to forgive. So we prayer pray...

“Praise be to God! ‘If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness’ (1John 1:9). Amen.”  (Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 814) 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 21, 2018 - THANK THE LORD AND SING HIS PRAISE

Day 294 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 24:13-25:6; Psalm 107:1-22; Luke 14:12-35)

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so. (Psalm 107:2 ESV)

Why are you alive? What does the Lord expect of you? He has called those He has redeemed from sin, death and the devil to say so, to be His witnesses. May we joyfully tell everyone what He has done.

Thank the Lord and sing His praise; tell ev'ryone what He has done.
Let all who seek the Lord rejoice and proudly bear His name.  
He recalls His promises and leads His people forth in joy with shouts of thanksgiving.  
Alleluia, alleluia.   
(Divine Service One, The Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006)

Lord Jesus, thank You for my salvation. May my life be filled with daily thanksgiving as I tell others of all that You have done. Please lead us forth in Your joy. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 20, 2018 - HUMILITY AND EXALTATION

Day 293 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 23:1-24:12; Psalm 106:24-48; Luke 13:31-14:11)

“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11 ESV)

In this section Jesus paints a well developed picture of what being humiliated looks like:
“Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the places of honor, saying to them, “When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest someone more distinguished than you be invited by him, and he who invited you both will come and say to you, ‘Give your place to this person,’ and then you will begin with shame to take the lowest place.” (Luke 14:7-9 ESV)

Humiliation and shame are not two emotions that we enjoy experiencing because they reveal some major flaws in our self-absorbed approach to life. So Jesus teaches us a better way:
“But when you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at table with you.”  (Luke 14:10 ESV)

Not only did Jesus give this sound advice, He went on to live it by experiencing the ultimate of humility of crucifixion on Calvary’s cross, the result of which is the greatest blessing in your life...
“And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.” (Philippians 2:8-10 ESV)

Dearest Lord Jesus, thank You for humbling Yourself for me and my salvation. Sustain my faith in You so that I may remain Your humble child now, and then know the ultimate exaltation of eternal life with You in heaven. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 19, 2018 - THE NARROW DOOR

Day 292 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 22; Psalm 106:1-23; Luke 13:18-30)

And someone said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” (Luke13: 23-24 ESV)

Jesus is saying that only those who enter through the narrow door will get into heaven. What is He talking about? Listen to how His answers to that question:

So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep... I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”  (John 10:7-11 ESV)

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”  (John 14:6 ESV)

On the day of your Baptism, the Lord chose you and gave you faith, the key that opens the narrow door for you. The only ones who enter through the narrow door are those who confess their sins and trust in Christ as Savior and Lord.

Lord Jesus, thank You for being the narrow door and for accepting sinners like me. Please keep my faith in You strong so that I may continue to be an heir of eternity with You in heaven! Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 18, 2018 - THE KINGDOM OF GOD GROWS

Day 291 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 21; Psalm 105:23-45; Luke 13:6-17)

He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his garden, and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.” (Luke 13:18-19 ESV)

Jesus reminds us that the kingdom of God will grow. From the seed of God’s Word, the souls of sinners are filled with faith and the gifts of forgiveness and heaven. There is great comfort in the fact that God the Holy Spirit grows the Church and that we don’t. We simply get to share Jesus and His love with fellow sinners.

Heavenly Father, thank You for growing Your kingdom in the hearts of those to whom You give faith. Thank You for including me in Your kingdom and in the exciting activity of sharing Your kingdom 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 from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readingshttps://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 17, 2018 - I Know That My Redeemer Lives

Day 290 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 20; Psalm 105:1-22; Luke 12:48-13:5)

“For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth.  And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see for myself, and my eyes shall behold, and not another.  My heart faints within me!”  (Job 19:25-27 ESV)

Do these words sound familiar?  Perhaps someone should write an Easter hymn based on Job’s resurrection-focused words of faith! (Check out Lutheran Service Book #461)  Did you catch his final thought is verse 27?  “My heart faints within me!”  How do you react to the fact that because of your faith in our risen Savior you too will live? (See John 14:19)

Looking at other translations can help us grow in our understanding of what the Holy Spirit is teaching us in a particular passage of Scripture.  The NIV translates the end of verse 27 this way: “How my heart yearns within me.”  This sounds like a line from a  valentine card.  And for Job, it is.  Because Job knows that his Redeemer lives, and that he (Job) will also live, he can respond with a heart that is overflowing with thanksgiving and joy and completeness, even to the point of fainting.  

The Message paraphrase expresses the Christian’s longing for Paradise (Luke 23:43) like this: “Oh, how I long for that day!” (MSG) Yes, we children of God do long for that day when we will begin eternity with God in heaven!  But until the Lord calls us home on that day, He calls to serve Him today.

May the Lord richly bless you as you face the challenges and opportunities of today with Job-like longing for, and the assurance of, your best day, your resurrection day!  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 16, 2018 - WHAT, ME WORRY?

Day 289 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 19, Psalm 104:19-35; Luke 12:35-47)

“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on... And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?” (Luke 12:22 & 25 ESV) 

When I was in grade school, I was a typical adolescent, into some weird things. One of those weird things was Mad Magazine featuring Alfred E. Neuman and his tag line... “What, Me Worry?” 

While Alfie is by no means a positive role model, nor even close to being a source of wisdom, his non-anxious phrase is one Christ would have us parrot. 

Because Jesus died and rose for us, no matter what the circumstances in our life may be, we can say, “What, me worry.” 

Our Savior wants us to understand the futility of worry when He reminds us that we can’t add a single hour to our lives. In other words, He wants us to trust Him completely. And since He has taken care of our biggest need by dying on the cross and guaranteeing heaven for us, we can live our lives without fear! 

Have no fear little flock;
Have no fear little flock,
For the Father has chosen
To give you the Kingdom;
Have no fear, little flock!
(Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #735)

Lord Jesus, thank You so much for Your encouragement to not worry. When the fears and woes of this life get me down, remind me that You died so that heaven will be mine. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 15, 2018 - DISAPPOINTMENTS

Day 288 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 18; Psalm 104:1-18; Luke 12:13-34)

“Then Bildad the Shuhite answered and said:
“How long will you hunt for words? Consider, and then we will speak. Why are we counted as cattle?” (Job 18:1-3 ESV)

Who was the shortest person mentioned in the Bible?  It had to be Bildad, the Shuhite.

Sorry (sort of) for that “bad” pun.  But it does reveal the kind of thinking that plagued Bildad’s advice to his friend Job.  Bildad was guilty of small thinking, the kind most people engage in.  “You must have done something really bad.  So get your act together, and things will be better for you.” What will comfort Job? The answer is the  fact that, regardless of the disappointments of this life, he/we can still 
be patient, 
have faith,
and trust God.

Lord God almighty, I thank You for using the tragedies and disappointments in my life to strengthen my faith and keep me close to You. While I know that my life does bear the marks of my sinfulness, comfort me with the fact that Jesus, and only Jesus, is my way out.  No matter what You call upon me to face today, keep me strong in my trust in Your gifts of forgiveness lavished upon me by Jesus, my Savior, my strength, and my destiny.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 14, 2018 - DON’T FORGET

Day 287 - (Today’s Bible readings: )

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, 
and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity, 
who heals all your diseases, 
who redeems your life from the pit, 
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, 
who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”  (Psalm 103:2-5 ESV) 

The psalmist is calling us to bless the Lord because He has first blessed us. And what is at the top of the list of His blessings (benefits)?

●  Your sins (iniquities) are all forgiven. 
●  Your soul has been healed. 
●  Your life has been redeemed. 
●  And the Lord has crowned you with His love, mercy and goodness.

Sounds like blessings worth remembering, right?

Thank You, Lord, for all Your benefits to me. I do not deserve any of them. Yet You daily shower me with Your forgiveness, redemption and my daily life. My response is to bless You, O Lord. Please keep showering me with Your blessed benefits for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 13, 2018 - COMFORT AND HOPE IN JESUS

Day 286 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 16; Psalm 102; Luke 11:37-54)

Then Job answered and said: “I have heard many such things; miserable comforters are you all.” (Job 16:1-2 ESV) 

Job’s friends aren’t much help at all. In fact, he calls them “miserable comforters.” If we can’t trust our friends, whom can we look to for comfort? The answer is simple... Jesus!

For as we share abundantly in Christ's sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.  (2 Corinthians 1:5 ESV)

When we, like Job, experience life’s trials, we Christians need to remember Jesus and His bitter suffering and death on our behalf. Through the Spirit-given gift of faith, we share in Christ’s sufferings. But look at what comes along with that... COMFORT!

Paul says even more on God’s comfort:
Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.  (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 ESV)

May the comfort you find in Jesus your Savior, empower you to live your life for Him!

Heavenly Father, thank You for the comfort that is mine in Jesus my Savior. Please use me to share this priceless comfort with others who need Him just as much as I do. In Jesus’ comforting name. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!

October 12, 2018 - DECEIT AND ENVY

Day 285 - (Today’s Bible readings: Job 15; Psalm 101; Luke 11:27-36)

DECEIT ANS ENVY

And in the morning, behold, it was Leah! And Jacob said to Laban, “What is this you have done to me? Did I not serve with you for Rachel? Why then have you deceived me?”  (Genesis 29:25 ESV)
When Rachel saw that she bore Jacob no children, she envied her sister. (Genesis 30:1 ESV)

Just as Jacob and his mother Rebekah had deceived his father, Isaac, now Jacob’s father-in-law, Laban, deceives him. Jacob has worked for seven years for the hand of Laban’s younger daughter, Rachel. But Laban deceives him and gives him Leah instead. The result is that Jacob soon has two wives and another seven years of work for his father-in-law.

Two sisters, one husband, and one sister blessed with children and the other not; this is a perfect situation for the sin of envy. Both Rachel and Leah will be guilty of envy and jealousy and will use their servants as surrogate mothers. There is much in this story that is not good and wholesome. 

Once again we see that God can work in the lives of imperfect human beings to carry out His purposes. Jacob has 12 sons born to four women--his two wives and their two servants. From these sons will come the 12 tribes of Israel.

How comforting to know that, while God does not condone sin of any kind, He still works in and through the lives of sinners. How comforting to know that the perfect, holy, sinless Son of God died in our place on the cross to pay for our deceit, our envy, and all of our other sins!

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for paying for all of my sins on the cross. Please protect me from deceit and envy. Please use me to share Your love and mercy 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 from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://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 your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!