June 1, 2019 - ARE YOU LOOKING UP?

Day 152 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 6:19-38; Psalm 121; 1 John 5:1-12)

“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.
 He will not let your foot be moved;
    he who keeps you will not slumber.
 Behold, he who keeps Israel
    will neither slumber nor sleep.”
                              (Psalm 121:1-4 ESV)

When a person is ill, perhaps hospitalized, and lying in a bed, there is only one direction to look–up. Whenever we find ourselves incapacitated for whatever reason, there is only one direction to look for comfort and deliverance.

“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” 

Just think. The Creator of everything wants you to turn to Him in your need. He promises to always hear your fervent prayer and to answer you in a way that is best for you.

Almighty God, please hear my prayer as I look up to You for deliverance from the woes of life. Above all, please deliver me from sin, death and the devil, that I may be Your child today, tomorrow 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 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!

May 31, 2019 - YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD

Day 151 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 6:1-18; Psalm 120; 1 John 4:1-21)

“You shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers, and you shall be my people and I will be your God.” (Ezekiel 36:28 ESV)

In promising to graciously return His people to their homeland, God assured them of this most important fact, “you shall be my people and I will be your God.” 

Those words are also God’s baptismal promise to you. Just think of it. On the day the Lord came into your life, He made you His precious child, a child of almighty God!

For Israel, God’s promise meant restoration and the return to the promised land. For us, God’s promise means that we sinners have been reconciled to our holy God and that the eternal promised land of heaven is ours.

Here is another way to express God’s promise: Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we are gathered around His cross and... You are a precious, blood-bought, baptized, forgiven, heaven-bound, gifted child of God! 

Thank You, heavenly Father, for reconciling me to Yourself through the death of Your Son, Jesus. May my daily life reflect the fact that I am Your child and You are my God. 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!

May 30, 2019 - THE ASCENSION OF OUR LORD

Day 150 - (Today’s Bible readings: ASCENSION DAY, Acts 1:1-11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:15-23; Luke 24:44-53

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight....”This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:8-11 ESV)

1. On Christ’s ascension I now build 
The hope of my ascension:
This hope alone has always stilled
All doubt and apprehension;
For where the Head is, there as well 
I know His members are to dwell
When Christ will come and call them.

2. Since Christ returned to claim His throne,
Great gifts for me obtaining,
My heart will rest in Him alone,
No other rest remaining;
For where my treasure went before,
There all my thoughts will ever soar
To still there deepest yearning.

3. O grant, dear Lord, this grace to me,
Recalling Your ascension,
That I may serve You faithfully
In thanks for my redemption;
And then, when all my days will cease,
Let me depart in joy and peace
In answer to my pleading. Amen.
(On Christ’s Ascension I Now Build, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #492)

A blessed Ascension Day to you and your family!

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!

May 29, 2019 - LOVE IN ACTION

Day 149 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 5; Psalm 119:169-176; 1 John 3:11-24)

“By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” (1 John 3:16-18 ESV)

Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross is the ultimate display of love in action. John tells us to be willing to lay down our lives for others. Then he gets specific: “But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him?” 

The picture shows a man putting his love into action by giving a cup of something warm to what appears to be a homeless man. 

We all have opportunities to share the love of God with people in need. The person is helped, and we get to serve Jesus.

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord 
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord 
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored 
And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love 
They will know we are Christians by our love 

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your sacrificial death. May I mirror Your example of love in my actions and not merely in my words.  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!

May 28, 2019 - THINGS OF GOD

Day 148 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 4; Psalm 119:161-168; 1 John 2:28-3:10)

From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.” But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” (Matthew 16:21-23 ESV)

Jesus had just shared God the Father’s plan of salvation with Peter, and Peter rejected it. “Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.”  Of course, he is not alone, multitudes have also rejected Jesus. 

Peter’s blessing was that Jesus would not let him go. He quite powerfully and eloquently encouraged Peter to set his mind on the things of God. 

How are you doing in this area? God’s plan to save you is focused on Jesus going to Jerusalem where He would suffer and die in payment for your sinners. But on the third day He would rise again, offering forgiveness of sins and eternal life to you and all who, through saving faith, set their minds on these things of God.

Lord Jesus, please keep my mind focused on You and the things of God so that I may continue to be forgiven and heaven-bound.  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!

May 27, 2019 - WEEKLY MEMORIAL DAY

Day 147 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 3; Psalm 119:153-160; 1 John 2:15-27)

“Six days work shall be done, but on the seventh day you shall have a Sabbath of solemn rest, holy to the Lord.” (Exodus 35:2 ESV)

On this Memorial Day set aside to remember our country’s war dead, we pause to honor them. In the verse quoted above we see that God is commanding us to pause on a weekly basis to remember Him. The day of rest has become much more hectic today. Still many do find time to pause in remembrance of Jesus, the One who died to make us all free spiritually. 

This day when we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom is a good time to pray for America:

God bless America, land that I love.
Stand beside her and guide her 
Thru the night with the light from above.
From the mountains to the prairies 
To the oceans white with foam,
God bless America, my home sweet home.
God bless America, my home sweet home.

Lord of the nations, thank You for America and for those who shed their blood so that I can be free. Thank You even more for Jesus who died to free me from sin, death and the devil. And please bless America with continued freedom so that we may worship You in 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 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!

May 26, 2019 - BLIND HATE

Day 146 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 2:26-46; Psalm 145:145-152; 1 John 2:1-14)

“Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.” (1 John 2:10-11 ESV)

Activity contrary to John’s clear intent in these verses is rampant in this hate-filled world of ours. We see this in on our streets. We see this on the job. We see this in our families. Unfortunately we see it everywhere in our culture as people act hateful toward one another simply because they do not share the same point of view.

If you were to ask people if they would rather abide in the light of God’s love instead of stumbling around in the darkness of hate, a good number would choose the light. However so many do choose darkness instead. The overwhelming truth is that Jesus, the light of the world, wants to shine the light of His love into the hearts of all people.

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.

3. Love in Christ abides forever, 
Fainting not when ills attend;
Love, forgiving and forgiven, 
Shall endure until life’s end.
(“Love in Christ Is Strong and Living," Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #706) 

Heavenly Father, thank You for delivering us from blind hate by means of the hate-conquering love of Jesus. As He has showered His love upon me, may I learn to love others - in His name. Please grant Your peace to all places on this earth where hatred is destroying relationships among people. In Jesus’ loving name. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion table this morning!

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings 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!

May 25, 2019 - CONFESSION IS GOOD FOR THE SOUL

Day 145 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 2:1-25; Psalm 119:137-144; 1 John 1:1-10)

“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:8-9 ESV)

In today’s verses, John is calling us to be honest with ourselves and with God. Don’t deny your sins; instead, confess them to God. This is difficult, yet necessary. It is a natural tendency for us proud human beings to deny that we have done anything wrong. Yet God’s Law rings out clearly, “They have all fallen away; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one.” (Psalm 53:3 ESV)

There are great emotional benefits to confessing our wrongs, our misdeeds, our sins. A child who has done something wrong is filled with a gnawing guilt until he or she tells mom or dad. Their relationship is restored. Yes, confession is good for that child.

Look at the second sentence in today’s Biblical selection. Confession is good for the soul of the child of God because God “is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

While it is important to be reconciled to one’s parents, it is far more crucial to be reconciled to the One who controls eternity. Because God the Father accepted His Son’s sacrificial death on the cross as payment for our sins, He now mercifully forgives us and washes all of our sins away. Confession truly is good for the soul of the believer!

Rejoice every time you hear your pastor proclaim Christ’s words over you and to you: "Upon this your confession, I, as a called and ordained servant of the Word, announce the grace of God to all of you, and in the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

Heavenly Father, thank You for promising to forgive me when I repent. Help me to resist the foolish attempt to cover up and deny my sins, so that I may know the joy of Your forgiveness and reconciliation. 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 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!

May 24, 2019 - GOOD NEWS OR BAD NEWS?

Day 144 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 1:32-53, Psalm 119:129-136; 2 Peter 3:14-18 )

“But from now on the Son of Man shall be seated at the right hand of the power of God.” (Luke 22:69 ESV)

Jesus is telling the Jewish Council that He is the Son of God. For them, this was blasphemous news.

How do you feel about Jesus’ claim that He is seated at the right hand of God the Father? 

For the believer this is truly good news. His mission of purchasing salvation for lost sinners is accomplished. He is now preparing our mansions and interceding with the Father on our behalf.

For the unbeliever, the fact that Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father is bad news, for this means that Jesus is for real. It also means that God’s punishment for those who do not believe and do not repent of their sins is real!

Dearest Lord Jesus, please remember me as You sit at the right hand of the Father. Keep my faith grounded in You and Your sacrifice on the cross, so that one day I may witness You sitting next to the Father 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 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!

May 23, 2019 - JESUS IS COMING SOON!

Day 143 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 1:1-31, Psalm 119:121-128; 2 Peter 3:1-13)

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed.” (2 Peter 3:9-10 ESV)

As time continues to go on, the inhabitants of our planet have an extremely difficult time believing in Judgment Day. The verses for today contain both a clear warning about the impending end of all we see around us, and a glimpse into the compassionate heart of God. While He is planning to expose the sins of all members of the human race, He fervently desires that all repent and turn to Him for salvation.

Peter then shares what should be your personal response to the impending end:

“Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God!” (2 Peter 3:11-12a ESV)

Wake up and take seriously God’s call to repentance, and know the peace that flows from a soul made pure in the blood of the Lamb.

Heavenly Father, thank You for warning me and calling me to the holiness and godliness that comes from repentance and absolution. Lord Jesus, may Your body and Your blood be for my soul the highest good as I keep my eyes focused on You in these last days. 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!

May 22, 2019 - GODLY WOMEN

Day 142 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 31, Psalm 119:113-120; 2 Peter 2:10-22)

“An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels...
Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” (Proverbs 31:10 & 30 ESV) 

Young men thinking of marriage would do well to use Proverbs 31 as a “shopping list.” 
Above all, he should be looking for a Christian woman who loves and honors the Lord.

While many husbands are as blessed as I am, and are able to say that they are married to a Proverbs 31 wife, every wife would say that she is far from the perfect mate pictured in this chapter. The fact is that none of us measure up to God’s expectations for our roles in life. But there is good news for us imperfect husbands and wives.

“For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.”  (2 Corinthians 5:14-15 ESV) 

Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for dying for me. Now help me to live for You by being the best wife/husband/parent/friend/neighbor/Christian I can be.  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!

May 21, 2019 - ARE YOU WALKING IN THE LIGHT?

Day 141 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 30; Psalm 119:105-112; 2 Peter 2:1-10)

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

Are you walking in the light? If so, that means that you are taking seriously the directions God’s gives us for such a walk. Listen to what David says a few verses later in chapter 119.

“Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble.”

Walking in the Light of God’s Word will prevent you from stumbling.

   Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
  When I feel afraid, think I’ve lost my way, still You’re there right beside me,
  And nothing will I fear as long as You are near.  Please be near me to the end.
  Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.

  Now I will not forget Your love for me and yet My heart forever is wandering.
  Jesus, be my guide and hold me to Your side, and I will love You to the end.
  Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
  (Thy Word, Text, Amy grant, Tune, Michael W. Smith)

Almighty God, may the light of Your Word be my guiding light. May I daily walk in the light of the cross and so glorify You and be used to draw others to Jesus.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings 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!

May 20, 2019 - HOW’S YOUR VISION?

Day 140 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 29; Psalm 119:97-104; 2 Peter 1:16-21)

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” (Proverbs 29:18 ESV) 

Part of taking care of your body is having your vision tested. How did it go the last time? Do you need assistance with your vision?

We sinners all have a vision problem. Our sinful nature blinds us to the truths of God. However, God’s Word corrects our vision by focusing our spiritual vision on the cross of Christ and God’s message and method of reconciliation.

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 ESV) 

The hymn writer reminds us of another aspect of the Christian’s cross-centered vision:

1. The vision of a dying world is vast before our eyes; 
    We feel the heart-beat of its need, we hear its feeble cries:
    Lord Jesus Christ, revive Thy church in this, her crucial hour!  
    Lord Jesus Christ, awake Thy church with Spirit-given power.

2. The savage hugs his god of stone and fears descent of night; 
    The city dweller cringes lone amid the garish light:
    Lord Jesus Christ, arouse Thy church to see their mute distress! 
    Lord Jesus Christ, equip Thy church with love and tenderness.

4. The warning bell of judgement tolls, above us looms the cross;
    Around are ever-dying souls - How great, how great the loss!
    O Lord, constrain and move Thy church, the glad news to impart!
    And Lord, as Thou dost stir Thy church, begin within my heart.

Heavenly Father, keep my vision focused on Jesus and His cross. May that vision also include those in this world who are dying without Jesus. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings 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!

May 19, 2019 - FAITH WITNESSES

Day 139 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 28, Psalm 119:89-96; 2 Peter 1:1-15)

“For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” (2 Peter 1:16 ESV)

Peter is referring to the fact that what he and the other apostles recorded about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus were facts. This means that Christianity is not the product of man’s imagination, not merely a series of myths. They were reporting what they saw with their own eyes.

While we are not eye witnesses of Jesus’ 33 years on this earth, we are “faith witnesses” of the truths of Christianity. We see Jesus clearly through eyes of faith. 

There is a time when we are in the physical presence of Jesus. When you kneel at the Communion table, you are receiving the true body and blood of the Savior given and shed for you. And in heaven will be in His presence for all eternity. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for opening my eyes to see Jesus as my Savior and Lord. Remind me of His presence in my daily life, especially when I am faced with challenges and difficulties. 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!

May 18, 2019 - WHERE DO YOU TURN?

Day 138 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 27, Psalm 119:81-88; 1 Peter 5:1-14)

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

David longed for deliverance from his enemies. When the going got rough, he turned to God. His hope and confidence were placed in the Word of the Lord.

Where do you turn when life gets rough for you? It is wise to follow David’s example. Perhaps you will not be delivered from trouble in this life. But with Jesus, you are guaranteed eternal salvation. Long for His salvation, put your hope in His Word, trust, repent and rejoice!

  My faith looks up to Thee,

  Thou Lamb of Calvary, Savior divine.
  Now hear me while I pray;

  Take all my guilt away;
  Oh, let me from this day

  Be wholly Thine!

  (“My Faith Looks Up to Thee,” Lutheran Service Book #702)

Almighty God, I long for Your salvation.  My hope is in the promises of Your Word. Please use me to share this hope with others so that they, too, may be wholly Thine. 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 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!

May 17, 2019 - GOD DOES DEAL WELL WITH US

Day 137 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 28, Psalm 119:73-80; 1 Peter 4:1-19)

You have dealt well with your servant,
    O Lord, according to your word. (Psalm 119:65 NIV)

Among the many blessings that God gives us in life is the gift of family. On this day, my family is celebrating the birth of my “little” buddy, Adam. For my wife and me, Adam and his sister Heidi, along with their spouses and children, are the joy of our life. God has truly dealt well with us!

What do you see in your life that affirms the fact that God is dealing well with you? Perhaps you don’t think that He is dealing well with you at all. However, look at this promise:

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11 ESV)

Does that sound like God is dealing well with you? How about these words spoken by Peter on Pentecost?

And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 2:38 ESV)

The greatest of example of God’s dealing well with you is Jesus, your Savior!

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for dealing well with me by going to the cross in my place . Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings 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!

May 16, 2019 - AN ENCOURAGING WORD

Day 136 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 25, Psalm 119:65-72; 1 Peter 3:8-22)

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11 ESV)
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” While this idiom is well known, it not always true. Negative and hateful words can hurt their target and do great emotional damage.

However, positive words can do much good. “A word fitly spoken” can greatly encourage their recipient. 

There is hope!
You can do it!
I believe in you!
I’ve always liked ________ about you!

The best encouragement is spiritual encouragement. And the best spiritual encourager is Jesus:

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28 ESV)

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 10:10-11 ESV)

Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.  (John 11:5 ESV)

And He loves YOU, TOO! Now that is a truly encouraging word!

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your encouraging Word of forgiveness given to me in Jesus, my Savior. Please use me to share Christ’s encouragement with others so they can know Him, too. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Encourage someone today.

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!

May 15, 2019 - YOU ARE SPECIAL . . . IN CHRIST

Day 135 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 24:23-34, Psalm 119:57-64; 1 Peter 3:1-7)

“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.”  (1 Peter 2:9-10 ESV)

In our worship services we state, “I, a poor, miserable sinner, confess unto You all my sins and iniquities with which I have ever offended You and justly deserved Your temporal and eternal punishment.” That does not sounds like we are very special in God’s sight. Yet, right after we make our public confession of sin we get to hear these words: “Upon this your confession, I, by virtue of my office, as a called and ordained servant of the Word, announce the grace of God unto all of you, and in the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

The words of Peter become true for us in confession and absolution. We are called out of the darkness of our sin into God’s marvelous light of His forgiveness. We were lost, but God has found us. We have been made God’s people and are showered with His endless mercy. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for making me Yours. I rejoice in Your mercy and grace bestowed upon me through Jesus my Savior. In His 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!

May 14, 2019 - SWEET WISDOM

Day 134 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 24:1-22, Psalm 119:49-56; 1 Peter 2:13-25)

“My son, eat honey, for it is good, and the drippings of the honeycomb are sweet to your taste. Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, there will be a future, and your hope will not be cut off.”  (Proverbs 24:13-14 ESV) 

What do comedian Jackie Gleason, Winnie the Pooh and King Solomon all have in common? They would all say of honey, “How sweet it is.” Gentlemen, remember the wisdom of saying the same thing of your honey, “How sweet she is.” In fact, wisdom is the focus of these verses, as well as the rest of the book of Proverbs.

“Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, there will be a future, and your hope will not be cut off.”

The kind of wisdom Solomon is highlighting for us is...

● wisdom that listens to the Word of the Lord,

● wisdom that trusts the Word of the Lord,

● wisdom that obeys the Word of the Lord, and ultimately

● wisdom that trusts in Jesus, and in Jesus alone, for forgiveness and heaven!

We sing about this kind of sweet wisdom in this hymn stanza:

How sweet the Name of Jesus sounds
In a believer’s ear!
It soothes our sorrow, heals our wounds,
And drives away our fear. 
(How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, #524 stz 1)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the sweet Gospel message I find in Your Word. Please keep my faith strong so that my ears will continue to hear, and my life will honor, the sweet name of Jesus. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings 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!

May 13, 2019 - DON’T GO BACK TO THE MIRE

Day 133 - (Today’s Bible readings: Proverbs 23, Psalm 119:41-48; 1 Peter 2:1-12)

“For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them.  What the true proverb says has happened to them: ‘The dog returns to its own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire.’” (2 Peter 2:21-22 ESV)

The picture of the sow wallowing in the mire is meant to wake you up. Don’t go back to the mire!

Instead, stay close to Jesus. Attend church faithfully. Hear what the Lord wants to teach you. Hear His Word calling you to repent and His declaration of forgiveness. “Run” to the altar to receive Christ’s precious body and blood given and shed for you!

Heavenly Father, please keep me out of the mire by keeping me close to You. Feed me with Your precious Word and Sacraments and strengthen my faith. 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!