December 1, 2018 - HELP FOR YOUR DAY

Day 335 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 16:1–17:2; Psalm 124; Acts 4:23-31)

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

Everyone needs help from time to time. You have a flat tire, you will most likely need some help. You can’t find an item on your wife’s shopping list, you will need to ask a worker in the grocery store where to find it. You break your arm, you are certainly going to need some help in setting it. There are so may examples. And what if you are having trouble with anger, forgiveness, anxiousness, and fear?

"Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” 

Where do we find God’s help? We find it in the Lord’s Supper as Jesus comes to us in His body and blood and forgives our sins, strengthens our faith, and reminds us that He is with us always. 

We also find God’s help in the Bible. The wheel in today’s illustration points to some of the many sources of help that come in the name of the Lord addressing problems like:

ANGER 
“Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27)

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

ANXIOUSNESS  
Cast “all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

FEAR
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

And imagine, God is inviting you to look to Him in time of trouble!
“Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.” (Psalm 50:15 ESV)

Heavenly Father, I call upon Your name for help in dealing with the challenges of my life. Thank You for Your ultimate answer to this prayer when You sent Your Son to be my Savior from sin, death and the devil. Please help me to stay close to You today and forever. 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!

November 30, 2018 - IN CHRIST ALONE

Day 334 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 15:20-63, Psalm 123; Acts 4:1-22)

“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)

This verse clearly proclaims the exclusive claims of Christianity. Salvation is found in no one else since only Jesus died in payment for your sins. There is no one else.

All other religious ideas involve man’s attempt to save himself by his own effort. Only Jesus guarantees forgives to anyone who repents and believes in what He accomplished on the cross.

The Christian song writers expressed the exclusivity of Jesus this way:

In Christ alone, who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless Babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save.

‘Til on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live, I live.
  (“In Christ Alone,” Words and Music by Keith Getty & Stuart Townend)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for dying for me on the cross, paying for my sins, and promising me a place with You in eternity. Please use me today to share Your love 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!

November 29, 2018 - WALKING AND LEAPING AND PRAISING GOD

Day 333 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 15:1-19; Psalm 122; Acts 3:11-26)

But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. And leaping up he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. (Acts  3:6-8 ESV)

Can you imagine never being able to walk for your entire life? Then Peter and John appear. You ask for some money, and Peter is used by the Lord to give you something you thought could never be. The lame man’s response is not surprising.... walking and leaping and praising God. 

You and I were born lame too. We were not able walk with the Lord. But Jesus came to us with His forgiveness, presence and promise of heaven.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for granting spiritual healing and strength by means of Your death on the cross. May I spend the rest of my life walking and leaping and praising You, o blessed Trinity.  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!

November 28, 2018 - NOT EVEN A COFFEE BREAK

Day 332 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 14; Psalm 121; Acts 2:42-3:10)

“He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber.” (Psalm 121:3 ESV) 

Have you ever wondered if God has forgotten you, or perhaps is too busy to be concerned with you and the daily challenges you are facing? The Psalmist reminds us in Psalm 121 that when we are feeling down, we can look to almighty God for comfort and strength. 

I lift up my eyes to the hills.
    From where does my help come?
My help comes from the Lord,
    who made heaven and earth. (Psalm 121:1-2)

He goes on to offer the added peace that comes from the promise that God is watching over us 24/7. 
God doesn’t even take a coffee break.

What we need to remember, above all, is the fact that our help comes only in the name of the Lord (Psalm 121:2).

How sweet the Name of Jesus sounds
In a believer’s ear!
It soothes our sorrow, heals our wounds,
And drives away our fear. 
 (The Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #524)

Heavenly Father, thank You watching over me continually. I do trust You. Therefore, into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen. 

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!

November 27, 2018 - THE PROMISE

Day 331 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 13:15-33; Psalm 120; Acts 2:14-41)

Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 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. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” (Acts  2:37-39 ESV)

Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Peter preaches a powerful sermon on Pentecost. The people are “cut to the heart” and ask “what shall we do?”  The answer is THE ANSWER for all sinners... for all people like you and me.

“Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”

Peter then assures us of the importance of infant Baptism by adding: “For the promise is for you and for your children.”

Thank You, heavenly Father, for Your gracious plan to save sinners from eternal doom by granting completer forgiveness for all who repent and believe. Thank also for the assurance that infants are saved by Baptism.  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!

November 26, 2018 - REJOICE IN THE WORD OF THE LORD

Day 330 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 13:1-14; Psalm 119:161-168; Acts 2:1-13)

162 I rejoice at your word
    like one who finds great spoil.
163 I hate and abhor falsehood,
     but I love your law.
164 Seven times a day I praise you
    for your righteous rules.
165 Great peace have those who love your law;
    nothing can make them stumble.
166 I hope for your salvation, O Lord,
    and I do your commandments.
167 My soul keeps your testimonies;
    I love them exceedingly.
168 I keep your precepts and testimonies,
    for all my ways are before you.

Lord, help me this day to put these words into practice. Above all, help me to trust, love and obey 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 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!

November 25, 2018 - ARE YOU READY FOR JESUS?

Day 329 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 12; Psalm 119:153-160; Acts 1:23-26)

“And then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory... 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.”  (Mark 13:26, 32-33 ESV)

Today is the Last Sunday of the Church Year. The Gospel lesson for today from Mark 13 is meant to help you be prepared for the Second Coming of Christ Jesus. 

The picture included here is meant to help you visualize what it will be like when you see the Son of Man (Jesus) coming in the clouds on Judgement Day. 

Jesus then goes on to let you know that no one is able to predict the date when the world will end. So do not let anyone fool into believing that they have a date circled on their calendar indicating when Jesus is coming. On the other hand, be ready for Him to come tomorrow, or even today, because this could be the day!

So, what does Jesus want you to do? “Be on guard, keep awake.” 

Lord Jesus, I look forward to Your return to take me home to heaven. Help me to be ready by repenting of my sins and trusting in You for forgiveness. Please use me to help others be ready too. 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!

November 24, 2018 - BUT YOU ARE NEAR, O LORD

Day 328 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 11:15-23; Psalm 119:145-152; Acts 1:12-22)

145 With my whole heart I cry; answer me, O Lord!
    I will keep your statutes.
146 I call to you; save me,
    that I may observe your testimonies.
147 I rise before dawn and cry for help;
    I hope in your words.
148 My eyes are awake before the watches of the night,
    that I may meditate on your promise.
149 Hear my voice according to your steadfast love;
    O Lord, according to your justice give me life.
150 They draw near who persecute me with evil purpose;
    they are far from your law.
151 But you are near, O Lord,
    and all your commandments are true.
152 Long have I known from your testimonies
    that you have founded them forever.

Be near me, Lord Jesus! I ask thee to stay 
Close by me forever and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, 
And take us to heaven to live with Thee there. 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!

November 23, 2018 - PROBLEM - PROMISE - PROOF

Day 327 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 11:1-14; Psalm 119:137-144; Acts 1:1-11)

4 And they came out with all their troops, a great horde, in number like the sand that is on the seashore, with very many horses and chariots. 5 And all these kings joined their forces and came and encamped together at the waters of Merom to fight against Israel.  (Joshua 11:4-5 ESV)

THE PROBLEM facing the Children of Israel was the massing army they would soon have to face. This is not unlike the enemies massing against us day in a day out. While we are pretty sure that the sight of their enemies gathering to do them harm caused many of God people to quake in their boots, we know they still had confidence. They were God’s chosen people, after all!

Then God gave them THE PROMISE.

6 And the Lord said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid of them, for tomorrow at this time I will give over all of them, slain, to Israel. You shall hamstring their horses and burn their chariots with fire.” (Joshua 11:6 ESV)

God has given us a promise in the face of our fierce enemies of sin, death and the devil.

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” (Acts 2:38 ESV)

What is THE PROOF that God can keep His promise to fix our big problems?

 7 So Joshua and all his warriors came suddenly against them by the waters of Merom and fell upon them. 8 And the Lord gave them into the hand of Israel, who struck them and chased them as far as Great Sidon and Misrephoth-maim, and eastward as far as the Valley of Mizpeh. And they struck them until he left none remaining.” (Joshua 11:7-8 ESV)

He did it for Israel, and He does if for you too.

“He said to the paralytic, ‘Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.’”  (Matthew 9:4 ESV)

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise to deliver me from my problems of sin, death and the devil. Thank You keeping Your promise by sending Jesus to die in my place on the cross and paying the price for all of my sin.  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!

November 22, 2018 - WHY THANK GOD?

Day 326 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 10:16-43; Psalm 119:129-136; Luke 24:36-53)

Why thank God? The answer to this question in found in all that God has done for you.

“I believe that God has made me and all creatures; that He has given me my body and soul, eyes, ears, and all my members, my reason and all my senses, and still preserves them.  Also clothing and shoes, meat and drink, house and home, wife and children, fields, cattle, and all my goods; that He richly and daily provides me with all that I need to support this body and life; That He defends me against all danger, and guards and protects me from all evil; And all this purely out of fatherly, divine goodness and mercy, without any merit or worthiness in me; for all which it is my duty to thank and praise, to serve and obey Him.  This is most certainly true”   (Luther’s explanation to the First Article of the Apostles’ Creed) 

And how do we get to respond to all of these blessings?

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. 
(Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House 2006)

Heavenly Father, thank You showering me with so many earthly blessings. Above all, I thank You for forgiving my sins and saving my soul. 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 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!

November 21, 2018 - LORD, GRANT ME UNDERSTANDING

Day 325 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 10:1-15; Psalm 119:121-128; Luke 24:13-35)

Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,
    and teach me your statutes.
I am your servant; give me understanding,
    that I may know your testimonies!  (Psalm 119:124-125)

David asks the Lord for the gift of understanding, a very good request for you and I to make as well. But first, he seeks God’s mercy, His steadfast love.

David does the order right. Our relationship with God begins with us acknowledging that we need help. We need our loving God to mercifully forgive us our sins. We also need to know His statutes, His Law and holy will for our lives.

Did you catch why he was asking for understanding? The answer is to better know God’ testimonies. We need to know the same. We need to know God’s proclamations for mankind. There are basically two... REPENT OF YOU SINS AND BELIEVE IN JESUS AS YOUR SAVIOR FROM SIN.

Lord God, mercifully grant me Your wisdom so that I may know of Your mercy and You holy will. 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 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!

November 20, 2018 - YOUR HIDING PLACE AND SHIELD

Day 324 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 9:16-27; Psalm 119:113-120; Luke 24:1-12)

In this section of Psalm 119, King David continues his heart-felt confession of faith, fear and security all focused on the One true God.

113 I hate the double-minded,
    but I love your law.
114 You are my hiding place and my shield;
    I hope in your word.
115 Depart from me, you evildoers,
    that I may keep the commandments of my God.
116 Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live,
    and let me not be put to shame in my hope!
117 Hold me up, that I may be safe
    and have regard for your statutes continually!
118 You spurn all who go astray from your statutes,
    for their cunning is in vain.
119 All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross,
    therefore I love your testimonies.
120 My flesh trembles for fear of you,
    and I am afraid of your judgments.

Lord God, like David, I also find You to be my hiding place and my shield from sin, death, the devil and myself. Remind me continually of the loving sacrifice of Your Son so that I need not fear Your judgment. 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 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!

November 18, 2018 - DO YOU SEE THE LIGHT?

Day 322 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 8:30-9:15; Psalm 119:105-112; Luke 23:44-56)

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 ESV) 

“God’s Word is our beloved guide to life. It reveals God’s trustworthy promises and eternal mercy. The psalm’s length presents God’s Word like a diamond with 22 facets, each displaying a distinct light. By exhausting every letter in the alphabet, the psalmist demonstrates the breadth of the Word and his own boundless dedication to it. Luther spoke of the making of a theologian on the basis of Psalm 119. A theologian, he held, came from three actions; prayer (oratio), reading or study (meditatio), and affliction (tentatio). . . The Gospel radiates through the psalm as the psalmist describes God’s promises, which save His people. God’s Word is loved because of its message of steadfast love. God is merciful, and this mercy brings life.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 972)

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.
(Thy Word, text by Amy Grant)

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your enlightening Word that reveals Your gracious call to repentance and Your promise to forgive. Please continue to guide my feet upon Your path as I seek Your will revealed in Your holy Word. 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!

November 18, 2018 - HOW SWEET HE IS

Day 322 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 8:1-29; Psalm 119:97-104; Luke 23:32-43)

How sweet are your words to my taste,

    sweeter than honey to my mouth! (Psalm 119:108 ESV)

The Psalmist, King David, is extolling the precious gift of God’s Word. He describes God’s directions and promises as “sweeter than honey to my mouth!”

We New Testament believers (Christians) agree with David because we can see fully how the entire Bible, Old and New Testaments, all points to Jesus and the soul-saving Gospel of forgiveness for all who repent of their sins and trust in Jesus for forgiveness. The hymn writer expresses this thought in the following “sweet” way:

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. 

Dear Name! The Rock on which I build;

My shield and hiding-place;

My never-failing treasury, filled

With boundless stores of grace. 

O Jesus, shepherd, guardian, friend,

My Prophet, Priest, and King;

My Lord, my life, my way, my end,

Accept the praise I bring. 

How weak the effort of my heart,

How  cold my warmest thought!

But when we see Thee as Thou art,

I’ll praise Thee as I ought. 

Till then I would Thy love proclaim

With every fleeting breath;

And may the music of Thy name

Refresh my soul in death!

(“How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds,” CPH, Lutheran Service Book #524)

Dearest Lord Jesus, Your sacrifice on Calvary’s cross in payment for all of my many sins is truly the sweetest news I have ever heard. Thank You of loving me so much! Please bless me this morning as I hear this good news once again in church. And use me this week to share You with others in some way as I live my life for You. 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!

November 17, 2018 - WHERE DO YOU TURN?

Day 321 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 7; Psalm 119:89-96; Luke 23:18-31)

My soul longs for your salvation;
    I hope in your word. (Psalm 119:81 ESV)

David (the author of the Psalms) 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 life in heaven. Long for His salvation, put your hope in His Word, and trust, repent and rejoice!

 1. Jesus, lead Thou on till our rest is won;  
And although the way be cheerless,
We will follow calm and fearless.  
Guide us by Thy hand to our fatherland.

2. If the way be drear, if the foe be near, 
Let not faithless fears o'ertake us;
Let not faith and hope forsake us; 
For through many a woe to our home we go.

3. When we seek relief from a long-felt grief;  
When temptations come alluring,
Make us patient and enduring;  
Show us that bright shore where we weep no more.

4. Jesus, lead Thou on till our rest is won.  
Heavenly Leader still direct us,
Still support, control, protect us, 
Till we safely stand in our fatherland.
(Jesus, Lead Thou On, Lutheran Service Book # 718)

Jesus, lead me on Your path to heaven. My hope is in Your promises of forgiveness, peace and eternal joy. Please use me to share You with others who need You as desperately as I do. In Your precious name I pray.  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!

November 16, 2018 - RELATIONSHIPS RESTORED

Day 320 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 6, Psalm 119:81-88; Luke 22:66-23:16)

“And Herod and Pilate became friends with each other that very day, for before this they had been at enmity with each other.” (Luke 23:12 ESV)

Broken relationships have been mankind’s curse ever since the Fall. Adam and Eve’s relationship was broken because of sin. Cain and Able’s relationship was broken because of sin. And worst of all, mankind’s relationship with God was broken because of sin.

I had never made the connection between Luke 23:12 and our broken relationships until this morning. Herod and Pilate had a broken relationship with each other before Jesus came on the scene. Before their mutual “negative” contact with Jesus, they had been at enmity with each other. After meeting Jesus, they became friends. 

Tragically, they do not benefit spiritually from their contact with Jesus. And yet their experience is what Christianity is all about...restoring relationships between sinners and their Savior. Look at the first of Christ’s words from the cross recorded in Luke:

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:12 ESV)

God’s priceless and gracious gift of forgiveness is how we are reconciled and made right with God. And this is what guarantees our ultimate and eternal reconciliation with Him, as we see in this comforting and thrilling word from the cross:

“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43 ESV)

Jesus first post-resurrection words to His disciples are His words of reconciliation to all who repent and believe to day. Therefore, these are His words to you today too:

“Peace to you!” (Luke 24:36 ESV)

Thank You, dearest Lord Jesus, for reconciling me to almighty God by Your death on the cross. Thank You for Your gift of forgiveness, Your guarantee of heaven and Your proclamation of peace. Please keep my faith strong in You this day and always!  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!

November 15, 2018 - AND THE WALLS CAME TUMBLING DOWN

Day 319 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 6, Psalm 119:41-48; Luke 12:35-47)

15 On the seventh day they rose early, at the dawn of day, and marched around the city in the same manner seven times... 16 And at the seventh time, when the priests had blown the trumpets, Joshua said to the people, “Shout, for the Lord has given you the city.”... 20 So the people shouted, and the trumpets were blown. As soon as the people heard the sound of the trumpet, the people shouted a great shout, and the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they captured the city. (Joshua 6:15-20 ESV)

Check the following link for a children’s version of this account:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3QUS4B0iaMhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3QUS4B0iaM

Joshua obeyed God’s unique battle-plan for the capture of Jericho, and the Children of Israel were blessed with an astounding victory.

God had another unique battle plan where He would defeat mankind’s enemies of sin, death and the devil. He didn’t use trumpets and marching. He used a cross and His only Son.

Almighty God, thank You for the story of Your victory over Jericho. Thank You even more for Christ’s victory of sin, death and the devil when He died on the cross 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!

November 14, 2018 - GOD’S WORD, BETTER THAN GOLD

Day 318 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joshua 4; Psalm 119:65-72; Luke 22:39-53)

65 You have dealt well with your servant,
    O Lord, according to your word.
66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge,
    for I believe in your commandments.
67 Before I was afflicted I went astray,
    but now I keep your word.
68 You are good and do good;
    teach me your statutes.
69 The insolent smear me with lies,
    but with my whole heart I keep your precepts;
70 their heart is unfeeling like fat,
    but I delight in your law.
71 It is good for me that I was afflicted,
    that I might learn your statutes.
72 The law of your mouth is better to me
    than thousands of gold and silver pieces.  (Psalm 119:65-72 ESV)

Preserve your Word, O Savior,
To us this latter day,
And let your kingdom flourish;
Enlarge your Church, we pray.
Oh, keep our faith from failing;
Keep hope’s bright star aglow.
Let nothing from truth turn us
While living here below. Amen.
(“Preserve Your Word, O Savior,” Lutheran Service Book #658)

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!