February 1, 2019 - LOOK FORWARD TO JOY

Day 32- (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 9:1-17; Psalm 30; Acts 27:39-44)

Weeping may tarry for the night but joy comes with the morning. (Psalm 30:5b ESV)  

The Psalmist gives hope to anyone lost in life’s long night of weeping. Disappointment, disillusionment, despair, and disasters of life come to all of us at some time, resulting in weeping. But the morning also comes with its joy.

 “And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”  (Nehemiah 8:4b)

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” (Psalm 51:12)

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”  Romans 8:18)

Lord Jesus, my Savior, thank You for being the joy of my life. Help me always remember this, especially when I find myself focusing on life’s long night of weeping. 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 Psals - 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 2019 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!

January 31, 2019 - HELP!

Day 28- (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 8, Psalm 29; Acts 27:13-38)

 “To you, Lord, I call;
    you are my Rock,
    do not turn a deaf ear to me...
Hear my cry for mercy
    as I call to you for help,
as I lift up my hands
    toward your Most Holy Place.” (Psalm 28:1-2)

What good news! David gives us the example of what you can do when you find yourself in great need.

 “To you, Lord, I call;
    you are my Rock,
    do not turn a deaf ear to me.”

When you don’t know which way to turn, turn the Lord. Call our to and ask Him to have mercy on you.

“Hear my cry for mercy
    as I call to you for help.”

Listen to the tenderly invite you to turn to Him in your need:

“Call on me in the day of trouble;
    I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”  (Psalm 50:15)

Lord, have mercy on me, and lead me through times of trial. Even more, have mercy on me, a poor miserable sinner and grant me forgiveness and reconciliation with 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 Psals - 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 2019 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!

January 30, 2019 - O BLESS THE LORD, MY SOUL

Day 30- (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 7:2-17, Psalm 28; Acts 27:1-12)

Blessed be the Lord! For he has heard the voice of my pleas for mercy. The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.  (Psalm 28:6-7)

1 O bless the Lord, my soul!
Let all within me join
And aid my tongue to bless His name
Whose favors are divine.

2 O bless the Lord, my soul,
Nor let His mercies lie
Forgotten in unthankfulness
And without praises die!

3 'Tis He forgives thy sins;
'Tis He relieves thy pain;
'Tis He that heals thy sicknesses
And makes thee young again.

4 He crowns thy life with love
When ransomed from the grave;
He that redeemed my soul from hell
Hath sov'reign pow'r to save.

5 He fills the poor with good;
He gives the suff'rers rest.
The Lord hath judgments for the proud
And justice for th'oppressed.

6 His wondrous works and ways
He made by Moses known,
But sent the world His truth and grace
By His beloved Son.
(“O Bless the Lord, My Soul,” Lutheran Service Book  #814)

Lord, thank You for hearing my pleas for mercy. Strengthen my faith today and use me to share Your mercy 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 Psals - 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 2019 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!

January 29, 2019 - WHOM SHALL I FEAR?

Day 29 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 6:1-7:1; Psalm 27; Acts 26:12-32)

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1 ESV) 

You check the latest news and discover that, once again, it is not good. There is so much going on that could make us fearful about the future. Where will terrorists strike next time? What will the doctor say? Will I loose my job of keep it? 

King David was not a stranger to fearful times. Yet he knew that the only answer for security and peace is the Lord. God shines the light of His love and His gift of salvation into the lives of His people. The Lord is our stronghold, our defense, and the One who drives all fear away.

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!
(“Have No Fear, Little Flock,” Lutheran Service Book #735)

Lord, thank You for showing us the way of salvation in Jesus, my Savior. While world and national events may be fearful, assure me of Your presence and Your peace. 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 Psals - 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 2019 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!

January 28, 2019 - JESUS IS THE WAY

Day 28- (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 5; Psalm 26; Acts 26:1-11)

"Neither can they prove to you what they now bring up against me. But this I confess to you, that according to the Way, which they call a sect, I worship the God of our fathers, believing everything laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets, having a hope in God, which these men themselves accept, that there will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust.”  (Acts 23:13-15 ESV)

Paul defends himself against his Jewish accusers. He states his loyalty to the Law and the Prophets while also proclaiming hope in Jesus. This former Pharisee is now following the Way. He is following Jesus.

Whom are you following?

Let us ever walk with Jesus, 
Follow His example pure,
Through the world that would deceive us  
And to sin our spirits lure.
Onward in His footsteps treading, 
Pilgrims here, our home above,
Full of faith and hope and love, 
Let us do the Father's bidding.
Faithful Lord, with me abide; 
I shall follow where You guide.
(“Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus,” Lutheran Service Book #685)

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for being my way to God the Father. Thank You for being my way out of sin. Please help me to follow You for the rest of my life. 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 Psals - 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 2019 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!

January 27, 2019 - PATIENT PRAYING

Day 27- (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 4; Psalm 25; Acts 25:13-27)

“Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
    teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me,
    for you are the God of my salvation;
    for you I wait all the day long.” (Psalm 25:4-5 ESV) 

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

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

  3. When we seek relief from a long-felt grief;  
When temptations come alluring,
Make us patient and enduring;  
Show us that bright shore where we weep no more.
(“Jesus, Lead Thou On,”  Lutheran Service Book #718)

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

“See” you 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 Psals - 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 2019 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!

January 26, 2019 - WHAT A LIFT

Day 26 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 2:27-3:21; Psalm 24; Acts 25:1-12)

7 Lift up your heads, O gates!

    And be lifted up, O ancient doors,

    that the King of glory may come in.

8 Who is this King of glory?

    The Lord, strong and mighty,

    the Lord, mighty in battle!

9 Lift up your heads, O gates!

    And lift them up, O ancient doors,

    that the King of glory may come in.

10 Who is this King of glory?

    The Lord of hosts,

    he is the King of glory! Selah (Psalm 24:7-10)

There are times when you just need a pick-me-up. For some it’s a cup of coffee. For others it’s a kind word spoken at just the right time. For David it was the King of glory. He calls people to worship the Lord, to lift up their heads to Him.

Are you looking to the Lord at those times that you need a lift? In reality, we need to be looking to the Lord and worshiping Him (living for Him) 24/7. 

The writer to the Hebrews encourages us the have the same focus... “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” (Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV)

Lift up your heads, ye mighty gates!

Behold, the King of glory waits.

The King of kings is drawing near;

The Savior of the world is here.

Life and salvation He doth bring;

Therefore rejoice and gladly sing.

To God the Father raise

Your joyful songs of praise.

(“Lift up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates,”  Lutheran Service Book #340)

Dearest Lord Jesus, King of Glory, please help me to look to You when I need a lift. Remind me how much I need to do this every day, trusting in Your forgiveness and mercy. 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 Psals - 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 2019 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!

January 25, 2019 - I HAVE EVERYTHING I NEED

Day 24 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 2:12-26; Psalm 23; Acts 24:1-27)

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1 ESV)

Who would not want the Lord to be his/her shepherd? That is what I thought when I was a young boy. What a confusion of what the verse actually means!

Many people are also confused about the Good Shepherd. They think that Jesus is there to satisfy their every desire. And when God doesn’t come through as they wish, they give up on Him. How sad, because they’re giving up on the only one who can give them exactly what they need.

When it comes to worldly things, Paul teaches us about priorities: “But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.” 1 Timothy 6:6-8 ESV)

When it comes to spiritual things, Psalm 23 declares: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” (V6)

We truly have all we need in the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting, all promised to those who repent of their sins and believe in Jesus as their Lord and Savior.

The King of Love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am His.
And He is mine forever.
("The King of Love My Shepherd Is,"   Lutheran Service Book #709)

Dearest Jesus, my Good Shepherd, thank You for taking care of my biggest need by paying for my sins on the cross. Please keep me contentedly close to you 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 Psals - 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 2019 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!

January 24, 2019 - GOD HAS ANSWERED

Day 24 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 1:21-2:11; Psalm 22; Acts 23:23-35)

1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest... 16 For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet— 17 I can count all my bones— they stare and gloat over me; 18 they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. 19 But you, O Lord, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid... 22 I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you. (Psalm 22:1-22 ESV) 

“Facing great opposition, the psalmist initially feels that God has forsaken him and is ignoring his prayers. After remembering God’s faithfulness and deliverance, he believes God will deliver him, and commits himself to telling that message to others. We, too, may feel alone and forsaken by God. Today we deserve to be forsaken by God because of our sinfulness. But, as the psalmist foretells, God Himself came to be our Redeemer. While many human beings have shared these feelings, the psalm finds its greatest fulfillment in Jesus Christ... He was truly forsaken by His Father and died alone so that we could be reconciled to our God. We are never alone because our crucified, resurrected Savior is with us.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 865) 

Heavenly Father, thank You for answering my prayer for deliverance by sending Jesus to experience the forsakenness of hell in my place. Help me to remember this at those times when I feel all alone. Grant me the comfort of knowing that You will never leave me nor forsake 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 2019 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!

January 23, 2019 - GOD WON'T FORSAKE YOU

Day 23 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Samuel 1:1-20; Psalm 21; Acts 23:12-22)

Do not forsake me, O Lord! O my God, be not far from me! Make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation! (Psalm 38:21-22 ESV)  

In the Acts 23:12-22 reading for today, we see how God answered David’s prayer for the apostle Paul.

Paul’s nephew reports a plot to kidnap Paul: “But do not be persuaded by them, for more than forty of their men are lying in ambush for him, who have bound themselves by an oath neither to eat nor drink till they have killed him.” (Acts 23:21) The Lord then uses the tribune to hustle Paul safely out of town (vv. 23-35).

The Lord will not forsake you either. He has a plan for your life too. Simply pray and ask God not to forsake you.

O God, forsake me not! 
Your gracious presence lend me; 
Lord, lead Your helpless child;
Your Holy Spirit send me
That I my course may run.
O be my light, my lot, 
My staff, my rock, my shield--
O God, forsake me not! 
(O God, Forsake Me Not,  Lutheran Service Book #731)

Lord, please do not forsake me. Help me to stay close to You today through faith in Jesus. In His 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 2019 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!

January 22, 2019 - LORD HAVE MERCY

Day 22 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ruth 4:5-22; Psalm 20; Acts 22:30-23:11)

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."  (Proverbs 31:8-9 NIV)

It was 46 years ago today that the Supreme Court declared legalized abortion to be the law of the land. Since then, 60 million innocent little babies have lost their lives. LORD, HAVE MERCY!

The Lord has answered this prayer in part by allowing many of us to "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.”  

January also marks the 26th anniversary of A Place of Refuge, where we have had the privilege of helping mothers in need choose life for their babies. What a joy to hold little ones in my arms who are here because God’s people cared enough to be there for their mothers!

Jesus gave us this precious example to follow: And they were bringing children to him that he might touch them, and the disciples rebuked them. But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” ... And he took them in his arms and blessed them. (Mark 10:12-14, 16 ESV)

Lord, have mercy, and change the hearts of those who would end the lives of innocent babies in the womb. Also change the hearts of those for whom the last 46 years have left them apathetic to the needs of mothers facing difficult choices. Move us all to support and encourage them with Your love and mercy. 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 2019 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!

January 21, 2019 - ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ACCEPTABLE?

Day 21 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ruth 3:7-4:4; Psalm 19; Acts 22:22-29)

“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”   (Psalm 19:14 ESV) 

Can people see that you are a follower of Jesus by the words you choose to utter? Do you say things that warn, encourage and strengthen others, as well as glorify God? What do you think God thinks of your words? 

And here is a tougher question. Do the things you think about, and perhaps meditate on, glorify God? Remember, He knows everything. What do you think God thinks about what you think about? 

More questions... Would you want God to be at your side when you carry out your daily activities? Does everything you think, do and say match up with His commandments? 

Remember, God gave His commandments to protect you, to guide you, and to show you how much you need your Savior, Jesus. 

Lord Jesus, thank You for being my Rock and my Redeemer. May the Holy Spirit guide and direct my speaking, my thinking and my doing, so that I may glorify You and point others to You with every waking moment of my life. And please have mercy on me and forgive me when I fail You in any way. 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 2019 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!

January 20, 2019 - FORMED BY GOD

Day 20 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ruth 2:17-3:6; Psalm 18:16-30; Acts 22:6-21)

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
    before you were born I set you apart."   (Jeremiah 1:5a NIV)

What a perfect reminder for Sanctity of Human Life Sunday!

● God formed you in your mother’s womb.

● He has known you even before you were conceived.

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

In the Psalms, David emphasizes the same Biblical truth:

13 For you created my inmost being;
    you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
    your works are wonderful,
    I know that full well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you
    when I was made in the secret place,
    when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body;
    all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. (Psalm 139:13-16 NIV)

1. Jesus loves the little children, 
All the children of the world;
Red and yellow, black and white, 
They are precious in His sight.
Jesus loves the little children of the world.

2. Jesus loves His precious children, 
All the children of the world;
Born and unborn all alike, 
They are precious in His sight.
Jesus loves His precious children of the world.

3. Jesus loves His special children, 
All the children of the world; 
Doesn’t matter what their age, 
Aptitude He does not gauge.
Jesus loves His special children of the world.

4. Jesus died for all the children, 
All the children of the world;
Young and old, we’re all alike, 
We are precious in His sight.
Jesus died for all the children of the world.

5. Jesus rose for all the children, 
All the children of the world;
Born and unborn, young and old. 
On the cross His love He told;
Now He lives for ALL the children of the world.           
                                                               
Lord of life, may all come to understand that You are the Author of all life.  I thank You for my physical life and for the spiritual life You have blessed me with on the day of my Baptism. Please bless all human life. In Jesus’ saving name.  Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning.

Pastor David Paape 

“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 2019 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!

January 19, 2019 - SETTING THE STAGE

Day 19 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ruth 2:1-16; Psalm 18:1-15; Acts 21:37-22:5)
“I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day...” (Acts 22:3

“Setting the stage” is an idiom used for getting things ready for some sort of event. The literal meaning focuses on stage hands making sure that the stage is properly set for the next scene of a play or movie. And that is precisely what Paul is doing in our reading from Acts. He is building rapport with his Jewish audience.

I am a Jew...educated according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers.

Being zealous for God as all of you are this day...

I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering to prison both men and women...

bringing them in bonds to Jerusalem to be punished.

Paul was setting the stage to share the Gospel, to share Jesus with them. We get to do the same.

●   Get to know your neighbor...others with whom you come into contact on a daily basis.

●   Build a relationship with them.

●   Look for opportunities to share Jesus and His good news for all sinners with them.

This is what we learned in Sunday School:

    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.

Lord, grant me opportunities to set the stage for sharing Jesus with others who need Him just as desperately as I do. 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 2019 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!

January 18, 2019 - FAMILY COMMITMENT

Day 18 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ruth 1; Psalm 17; Acts 21:27-36)

But Ruth said, “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.” (Ruth 1:16)

A mother-in-law urges her two widowed daughters-in-law to return to their homes and their families. One refuses to leave and provides words often quoted by some at weddings.

What is at the heart of Ruth’s response is a commitment to her mother-in-law and, thereby, to her married family. However, there is another family connection. We find this connection in Matthew’s account of the lineage of Jesus.

“...and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, 6 and Jesse the father of David the king.”  (Matthew 1:5-6) The following verses In Matthew 1 make the direct connection to Jesus.

Jesus shows His commitment to His family, the holy Christian Church, with these words:
“I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.”   (John 10:14-15)

Thank you heavenly Father, for making me part of Your family, the Church. Please bless me with the opportunity for regular family gatherings in worship every week. 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 2019 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!

January 17, 2019 - GOD’S PATH OF LIFE

Day 16 - (Today’s Bible readings: Judges 21; Psalm 16; Acts 21:17-26)

“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore." (Psalm 16:11 ESV)

God’s path of life does give us joy and eternal pleasures in His presence. He makes that path plain as John quotes Jesus:

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

Lord, take my hand and lead me Upon life's way;
Direct, protect, and feed me From day to day.
Without your grace and favor I go astray,
So take my hand, O Savior, and lead the way.
(“Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me” Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #722 Stanza 1)

Heavenly Father, please keep me on the right path with a deep and abiding faith in Jesus, my Savior. 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 2019 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!

January 16, 2019 - THE LORD’S WILL BE DONE

Day 16 - (Today’s Bible readings: Judges 20:26-48; Psalm 15; Acts 21:1-16)

When we heard this, we and the people there urged him not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” And since he would not be persuaded, we ceased and said, “Let the will of the Lord be done.”  (Acts 21:12-14 ESV)

A prophet named Agabus prophesies that Paul will be tied up and handed over to the Gentiles. His companions urge him to not put himself in harm’s way. But Paul is convinced that the Lord knows best. Therefore he will not shrink from serving the Lord in Jerusalem. In fact, He is so ready to obey the Lord, that he is willing to die for Him.

How willing are you to sacrifice for the Lord? Do you put the Lord first in the way you use your time, abilities and money? Does this hymn stanza indicate your Paul-like desire to serve God?

Take my life and let it be 
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days, 
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.

As you look down the road of your life, do you acquiesce to divine prompting and say,  “The Lord’s will be done?” 

Heavenly Father, empower me to face my future with the same confidence in You that Paul displayed. Above all, keep me strong in the faith as I trust in Your will to be done in 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 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 2019 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!

January 15, 2019 - OTHERS

Day 15 - (Today’s Bible readings: Judges 20:1-25; Psalm 14; Acts 20:17-38)
“In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35 ESV)

Paul is teaching us a very important life lesson. There are two kinds of people in this world, givers and takers. Paul is encouraging followers of Jesus to be givers. In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus amplifies this lesson by telling us that whenever we help someone in need, we are actually helping Him. Whom can you help today? The hymn writer encourages us to do the same because of the love of Christ lavished upon us:

1. Love in Christ is strong and living, 
Binding faithful hearts in one;
Love in Christ is true and giving, 
May His will in us be done.

2. Love is patient and forbearing, 
Clothed in Christ’s humility,
Gentle, selfless, kind, and caring, 
Reaching out in charity.
(“Love in Christ Is Strong and Living," Lutheran Service Book #706) 

Heavenly Father motivate me by the good news of what Jesus did for me on the cross to serve You by helping others in Your name today. 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 2019 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!