Day 182 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 19:19-20:12; Psalm 1; Matthew 1:1-17)
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. 4 The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; 6 for the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. (Psalm 1 ESV)
Those who walk with Jesus, that is, those who are trusting in Jesus for forgiveness, will, in God’s perfect time, reach the ultimate destination of heaven. Until we get there...
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.
(Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #685 stanza 1)
Heavenly Father, may the Holy Spirit lead me in Your ways, so that I may ever walk with Jesus and reach the destination of heaven. 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!
Day 181 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 19:1-18, Psalm 150; Revelation 22:6-21)
“Praise the Lord!
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens!
Praise him for his mighty deeds;
praise him according to his excellent greatness!
Praise him with trumpet sound;
praise him with lute and harp!
Praise him with tambourine and dance;
praise him with strings and pipe!
Praise him with sounding cymbals;
praise him with loud clashing cymbals!
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord!” (Psalm 150 ESV)
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
(Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #805)
Heavenly Father, I praise You for all that You have blessed me with. Above all, I praise You for sending Your Son to be my Savior. 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!
Day 180 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 18:20-46, Psalm 149; Revelation 21:9-22:5)
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6 ESV)
Moses, who is about to be retired, encouraged the Israelites to face their future with strength and courage. Strength and courage are traits that many would like to have. If you are one of these folks, listen to how this can come about. Number one, don’t worry, the Lord will go with you wherever you go. Number two, He will never turn His back on you.
At St. Paul’s, there is a phrase that many members know well:
Always, always, always, always, always, always, always STAY CLOSE TO YOUR JESUS.
Our text for today offers us another version:
Never, never, never, never, never, never, never WILL GOD LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU!
Lord, what comfort I find in Your promise to never leave my side. I know that I do not deserve this. Thank You for Your mercy and grace showered upon me through Jesus, my Savior. Amen.
“See” you in church tomorrow 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!
Day 179 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 19:19-20:12, Psalm 148; Revelation 20:11-21:8)
“For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it.” (James 2:10 ESV)
People have a tendency to excuse their sinful activities by comparing themselves to “big” sinners (murders, rapists, drunk drivers, back robbers and terrorists). James reminds us that all sin is rebellion against God. The result is that each one of us being judged 100% guilty. YOU AND I ARE LAW BREAKERS - we have all broken God’s law.
The good news is that there is hope for us. It comes from the One who kept God’s entire Law perfectly. Jesus was 100% innocent, yet He suffered as one who was 100% guilty when He died in our place on Calvary’s cross. And now anyone who trusts in Him for forgiveness is declared 100% innocent and fit for heaven.
Heavenly Father, thank You for You amazing plan to change me from 100% guilty to 100% innocent. Please remind me to humbly admit my guilt and to trust in Your gift of forgiveness every day. 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!
Day 178 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 19:1-18, Psalm 147; Revelation 20:1-10)
And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” (1 Kings 19:11-13 ESV)
“Elijah found no comfort and no assurance in God’s power manifested in nature through the wind. Rather, when God’s Word came to instruct him in a quiet voice, then the prophet found truth and strength. What the Lord whispers is a mystery. Luther: ‘The Law is a hammer that crushes rocks, a fire, a wind, and a great and mighty earthquake that overturns mountains. When Elijah cold not bear the terrors of the Law that were signified in these events, he wrapped his head in his mantel, and after the storm was over, there came a still small voice, in which the Lord was present. But the storm and the earthquake had to come first, before the Lord Himself followed in the still small voice.’” (The Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 571)
So, dear reader, when the storms of life engulf you, get ready to listen for the still small voice of God shortly after the storm is stilled. In fact, this is precisely why you attend church on a weekly basis. You come in from the tumult of the previous week and are met with the Word and the meal that God has prepared just for you.
God Himself is present:
Let us now adore Him
And with awe appear before Him.
God is in His temple;
All within keep silence;
Humbly kneel in deepest rev'rence.
He alone
On His throne
Is our God and Savior;
Praise His Name forever!
(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #907, stanza 1)
Almighty God, thank You for coming to me in Your still small voice in weekly worship. Help me to listen to and heed Your guiding and saving voice. 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!
Day 177 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 18:20-46, Psalm 146; Revelation 19:11-21)
“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)
God promises the forgiveness of sins to all who believe in Jesus and are baptized. Last week I was privileged to perform two Baptisms at two different locations. However, whether in a hospital or in church, the Baptismal promises remain the same.
“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.”
May the Lord bless these two newest Baptized in our church. May He also bless you and your family as you celebrate your baptism and your faith!
Baptized into Your name most holy,
O Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,
I claim a place, though weak and lowly,
Among Your saints, Your chosen host.
Buried with Christ and dead to sin,
Your Spirit now shall live within. Amen.
(Baptized into Your Name Most Holy, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #590 stanza 1)
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!
Day 176 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 18:1-19, Psalm 145; Revelation 19:1-10)
“The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season. You open your hand; you satisfy the desire of every living thing.” (Psalm 145:15-16 ESV)
These words are often used as a meal prayer, and rightly so. As we prepare to eat, it is God-pleasing to remember the One who provides our food.
Do you remember where your daily blessings come from? He opens His hand, and all you need is yours and you are satisfied. Are you satisfied? The key is to remember that His greatest blessings are found at the baptismal font, the Communion table and in the Word! The hymn writer well expresses this satisfaction.
All that I am and have, Thy gifts so free,
In joy, in grief, through life, Dear Lord, for Thee!
And when thy face I see, My ransomed soul shall be
Through all eternity Something for Thee.
Heavenly Father, thank You for satisfying my needs. As I look to You, may I remember Your blessings of forgiveness and heaven. In Jesus’ 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!
Day 175 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 144; Revelation 18:1-24)
Then the Ziphites went up to Saul at Gibeah, saying, “Is not David hiding among us in the strongholds at Horesh, on the hill of Hachilah, which is south of Jeshimon? Now come down, O king, according to all your heart's desire to come down, and our part shall be to surrender him into the king's hand.” And Saul said, “May you be blessed by the Lord, for you have had compassion on me.” (1 Samuel 22:19-21 ESV)
In his misguided pursuit of David, King Saul is aided by Ziphites. He responds to their kindness by exclaiming: “May you be blessed by the Lord...”
“Blessed by the Lord” is my preferred way to answer someone who asks “how are you today?” “Blessed by the Lord” also describes what happened to my family 44 years ago today. A precious bundle of joy came into our lives on June 24, 1975, when the Lord blessed us with our daughter, Heidi Joy. She and her brother, Adam, and now their spouses and children, are truly precious blessings from the Lord.
“Blessed by the Lord,” aptly describes all who believe in Christ and are part of God’s family, the Church. My prayer for you and your loved ones is that you are blessed by the Lord with membership in His family!
As a member of God’s family, may you be blessed by the Lord with the comfort and peace that comes from sins forgiven and heaven guaranteed. 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!
Day 174 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 17:1-16, Psalm 143; Revelation 16:17-17:18)
“Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they are doing evil. Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God is in heaven and you are on earth. Therefore let your words be few.” (Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 ESV)
What were we taught as children? “Think before you speak.” That is what Solomon is getting at here, and much more. In addition to the warning to not speak foolishly, he counsels us to listen to God, and I might add, to others too.
Solomon’s conclusion is that we are to listen to God more and speak less. That is some pretty sound advice for getting along with others and for honoring God.
Listen, listen, God is calling through the Word inviting,
offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.
Jesus gave his mandate; share the good news
that he came to save us and set us free.
Listen, listen, God is calling through the Word inviting,
offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.
Let none be forgotten throughout the world.
In the triune name of God go and baptize.
Listen, listen, God is calling through the Word inviting,
offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.
Help us to be faithful, standing steadfast,
walking in Your precepts, led by Your Word.
Listen, listen, God is calling through the Word inviting,
offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.
(“Listen, God Is Calling,” Lutheran Service Book #833)
Heavenly Father, may my words be few, and may what I say bring honor to you and benefit others. Above all, may I listen well to all that You would teach me in Your precious Word. 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!
Day 173 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 16:21-34, Psalm 142; Revelation 15:1-16:16)
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV)
Paul is giving us some excellent advice when it comes to deciding what we should do, think or say. Negatively put, if you can’t do something, say something or even think something to the glory of God, you had better make another choice.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34-35 ESV)
Almighty God, please help me to glorify You in everything. Remind me of all that You have done for me through Jesus’ death on the cross. Help me to show my love for You by loving others. 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!
Day 172 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 15:33-16:20; Psalm 141; Revelation 14:1-20)
“Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth;
keep watch over the door of my lips!” (Psalm 141:3 ESV)
The picture displays the universal tool (duct tape) being used to correct a universal problem.
Jesus identifies this problem in Matthew 15, “Hear and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.”
We have all heard someone taking the name of the Lord in vain. That is a blasphemous use of the mouth. But there are many other misuses. Lying, gossiping, cursing, misleading, griping, and the like are all misuses of God’s gift of speaking. David knew that he was prone to sin, just like the rest of us, so he cried out to God.
“Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!”
The Eighth Commandment
You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
What does this mean?
We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation,
but defend him,
speak well of him, and
explain everything in the kindest possible way.
And if you can't say something nice about another person, cover your mouth with duct tape! (Figuratively speaking, of course! Or is it figuratively non-speaking?)
Heavenly Father, like David, I ask You to guard over my mouth. May all that I say bring glory to Your name and benefit those around me. In Jesus’ 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!
Day 171 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 15:9-32; Psalm 140; Revelation 13:1-18)
The word reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. And he issued a proclamation and published through Nineveh,... “Let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. Who knows? God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we may not perish.”... When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it. (Jonah 31:6-10 ESV)
God gave the people of Ninevah second chance. From the king on down, they repented and God relented. They had their second chance.
Earlier in this book, Jonah was given a second chance. He had refused to go to Ninevah because he didn’t believe they deserved a second chance. God had Jonah tossed into the sea where a great fish swallowed him up. After three days, God had the fish toss Jonah back. Jonah got the message. He took his second chance and went to Ninevah.
In Christ, God has given you a second chance as well. Repent of your sins and believe that God has accepted Jesus’ death on the cross as payment for all of them.
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me a second chance by sending Jesus to be my Savior. Please use me to share Your gift of the second chance with others who need this gift as much a I do. 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!
Day 170 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 14:19-15:8; Psalm 139; Revelation 12:1-17)
“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.” (Psalm 139:13-15 ESV)
When does life begin? The answer was pretty obvious to David. Life begins in the womb, where God fearfully and wonderfully knits us together.
How does God want His people to respond? We get to remember that God has a plan for every life. That makes you very special. In fact, God even knows your name. Please take time to watch this video clip all the way through. The moving song begins about 2 minutes into the clip.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5KM3ndNE-Fo
Yes, life is a precious gift from God.
Heavenly Father, the Creator of all, thank You for the gift of life. Please help all of us to value life. In the name of Jesus, the Lord of 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 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!
Day 169 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 14:1-18; Psalm 138; Revelation 11:1-19)
“For when Solomon was old his wives turned away his heart after other gods, and his heart was not wholly true to the Lord his God.” (1 Kings 11:4 ESV)
Solomon’s gift of wisdom did not last his entire life. In his old age he fell away from God. Jeroboam, one of Solomon’s servants, was sent to declare God’s judgment on Solomon. His kingdom would be ripped from his hands.
The message is clear. Listen to Jesus: “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10 ESV) Chase after other gods, and you will lose far more than an earthly kingdom. For Jesus is the only way, truth and light. No one can get to heaven without trusting in Him as Lord and Savior.
God has graciously given us antidotes to “turning away our hearts after other gods.” We find them in church where He comes to us in His Word and Sacrament. We find them in daily study of God’s Word and in daily prayer.
Lord, please protect me from the fate of Solomon. Keep me faithful by weekly worship and daily devotion to You. Use me to help others, especially those who are older, to be ready for heaven. 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!
Day 168 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 13:11-34; Psalm 137; Revelation 9:12-10:11)
“King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.” And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.” (Acts 26:27-29 ESV)
Paul appealed to Caesar for a trial in Rome rather than be subject to the treacherous lies of the Jewish leaders. But first he is questioned by Roman rulers Festus and Agrippa. Paul’s defense is a clear proclamation of the saving Gospel of Jesus the Christ. King Agrippa’s familiarity with the Jewish prophecies prompted Paul’s direct and challenging statement: “I know that you believe.” Agrippa gave a disappointing and tragic answer. “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” (King James Version) But almost doesn’t make it when it comes to faith.
Next, we get a revealing glimpse into the focus of Paul’s life and ministry.
“Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.”
And how was Paul? Paul was filled with confident faith in the Babe of Bethlehem, the Christ of Calvary and the Savior of his soul, as his letter to the church in Rome reveals.
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:37-39)
Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of courageous faith revealed in St. Paul. Lord, please give that same kind of faith so that You can use me to reach others for heaven too. 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!
Day 167 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 13:1-10; Psalm 136; Revelation 8:1-9:11)
“When the Lamb opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. Then I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them. And another angel came and stood at the altar with a golden censer, and he was given much incense to offer with the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar before the throne, and the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, rose before God from the hand of the angel. Then the angel took the censer and filled it with fire from the altar and threw it on the earth, and there were peals of thunder, rumblings, flashes of lightning, and an earthquake.”
(Revelation 8:1-5 ESV)
“After finishing his vision of the seven seals being broken, John transitions to another vision, which depicts the end times with successive trumpet blasts. The visions are frightful since we all know in our hearts that we cannot stand before God in the judgment. Fortunately, we have One who stands beside us as our advocate–Jesus Christ–celebrated in chapters 4-5. His blood cleanses us from all sins.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 2213.)
Lord Jesus, our righteous Judge, thank You for also being my advocate. Thank You for doing this by clothing this repentant sinner with Your blood and righteousness. Please nurture my faith via Your Word and Sacraments so that I will be ready for the trumpet blasts. Amen.
“See” you at the Communion table tomorrow 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!
Day 166 - (Today’s Bible readings: June 15, 2019 1 Kings 12:16-33; Psalm 135; Revelation 7:1-17)
“After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, ‘salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!’” (Revelation 7:9-10 ESV)
In today’s verses we are given a glimpse of the eternity that Christ’s Second Advent will usher in. By the grace of God, you and I will be part of the multitude of believers who spend forever praising God for His gracious gift of salvation. What an awesome scene is depicted here; people from every nation, all tribes, all peoples and languages. What a stark contrast to what we see on the news and read in the papers. How do we respond to the One who guarantees this awesome gift of eternal life? We start singing now...
This is the feast of victory for our God.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Worthy is Christ, the Lamb Who was slain,
Whose blood set us free to be people of God.
This is the feast of victory for our God.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Power, riches, wisdom, and strength,
and honor, blessing, and glory are His.
This is the feast of victory for our God.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Sing with all the people of God,
and join in the hymn of all creation:
Blessing, honor, glory, and might be to God
and the Lamb forever. Amen.
This is the feast of victory for our God.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
For the Lamb Who was slain has begun His reign.
Alleluia.
This is the feast of victory for our God.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
Almighty God, thank You for opportunity to practice for heaven every time we gather to worship You and join in the hymn of all creation. Please keep me close to You through faith in my Savior, Jesus, so that I may sing Your praises now and forever. 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!
Day 165 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 12:1-15; Psalm 133-134; Revelation 6:1-17)
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robe. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the Lord bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.” (Psalm 133 ESV)
“Living in unity is as soothing as being anointed with oil, as refreshing as dew from the mountains on a parched desert... But we often experience discord, strife, and disunity instead. This is true of our families, our communities, and our churches. Yet Christ’s prayer (John 17:11) is “that they may be one, even as We are one.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 929)
While the plethora of Christian denominations doesn’t make it appear that we are one, our faith in Christ as Savior and Lord reveals our unity. In fact, it is our faith in Christ, and Christ alone, that makes us Christians in the first place!
Elect from ev’ry nation, Yet one o’er all the earth,
Her charter of salvation: One Lord, one faith, one birth.
One holy name she blesses, Partakes one holy food,
And to one hope she presses With every grace endued.
Through toil and tribulation, And tumult of her war,
She waits the consummation Of peace for evermore
Till, with the vision glorious Her longing eyes are blest,
And the great Church victorious Shall be the Church at rest.
Yet she on earth has union With God the Three in One,
And mystic sweet communion With those whose rest is won.
O blessed heav’nly chorus! Lord, save us by Your grace,
That we, like saints before us, May see You face to face.
(“The Church’s One Foundation,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #644, stanzas 2,3,4)
Heavenly Father, thank You for making us one in Christ. Please keep me and all believers strong in the saving faith. I ask this especially for my Christian brothers and sisters around the world who are suffering persecution. Lord have 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!
Day 164 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 11:23-43; Psalm 132; Revelation 5:1-14)
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing! ... To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!” (Revelation 5:12-13 ESV)
Our Lord Jesus, that Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, truly deserves to receive..power / wealth / wisdom / might / honor / glory / blessing.
There is a beautiful Lenten hymn that describes how we are to glorify and honor the Lamb.
1. Glory be to Jesus, Who in bitter pains
Poured for me the life blood From his sacred veins!
3. Blest through endless ages Be the precious stream
Which from endless torment Did the world redeem!
“Glory be to Jesus,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2003, #433 (1&3)
Lord Jesus, I do honor and glorify You for shedding Your holy and precious blood for me and my salvation. May the Law of God remind me of my sins, and may Your precious and sin-forgiving Gospel daily renew my love for You. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings 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!
Day 163 - (Today’s Bible readings: 1 Kings 11:1-22; Psalm 131; Revelation 4:1-11)
“For when Solomon was old his wives turned away his heart after other gods, and his heart was not wholly true to the Lord his God.” (1 Kings 11:4 ESV)
Solomon’s gift of wisdom did not last his entire life. In his old age he fell away from God. Jeroboam, one of Solomon’s servants, was sent to declare God’s judgment on Solomon. His kingdom would be ripped from his hands.
The message is clear. Listen to Jesus: “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10 ESV) Chase after other gods, and you will lose far more than an earthly kingdom. For Jesus is the only way, truth and light. No one can get to heaven without trusting in Him as Lord and Savior.
God has graciously given us antidotes to “turning away our hearts after other gods.” We find them in church where He comes to us in His Word and Sacrament. We find them in daily study of God’s Word and in daily prayer.
Lord, please protect me from the fate of Solomon. Keep me faithful by weekly worship and daily devotion to You. Use me to help others, especially those who are older, to be ready for heaven. 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!
