Day 153 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 7:1-29; Psalm 120-121; Acts 4:23-31)
ARE YOU LOOKING UP?
“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.
1. What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry Ev’rything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry Everything to God in prayer.
2. Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged, Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a Friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness - Take it to the Lord in prayer.
3. Are we weak and heavy laden, Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our Refuge - Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer;
In His arms He'll take and shield thee, Thou wilt find a solace there.
(“What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” Lutheran Service Book #770)
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.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 9:00 am
IN CHURCH Worship Serice with Holy Communion 9:00 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 152 - (Today’s Bible readings: The DAY OF PENTECOST Ezekiel 37:1-14; Psalm 139; Acts 2:1-21; John 16:4-15)
THE PROMISED HELPER
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you." (John 14:16-17 ESV)
Today is Pentecost, the day we remember the Holy Spirit, the promised Helper, coming upon the disciples and empowering them to reach the world for Christ.
The Holy Spirit’s work is crucial for you and your soul. Through Word and Sacrament, the Holy Spirit gives you faith in your Savior, Jesus. He is the One who makes the truths of the Gospel real to you, and thereby guarantees you eternal life.
The words of the Explanation to the Third Article of the Apostle’s Creed remind us how crucial the Holy Spirit is to each believer, including you.
I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith. In the same way He calls, gathers, enlightens, and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth, and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith. In this Christian church He daily and richly forgives all my sins and the sins of all believers. On the Last Day He will raise me and all the dead, and give eternal life to me and all believers in Christ. This is most certainly true.
The prayer for this morning comes from the hymn “Come, Holy Ghost, Creator Blest.”
Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest,
And make our hearts Your place of rest;
Come with Your grace and heav'nly aid
And fill the hearts which You have made. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 151 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 6:16-30; Psalm 119:161-168; Acts 4:1-22)
ONLY JESUS
“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12 ESV)
This verse clearly proclaims the exclusive claims of Christianity. Salvation is found in no one else since only Jesus died in payment for your sins. There is no one else.
All other religious ideas involve man’s attempt to save himself by his own effort. Only Jesus guarantees forgives to anyone who repents and believes in what He accomplished for them on the cross.
The hymn writer expressed the exclusivity of Jesus this way:
Jesus, Jesus, only Jesus,
Can my heartfelt longing still.
Lo, I pledge myself to Jesus
What He wills alone to will.
For my heart, which He hath filled,
Ever cries, Lord, as Thou wilt. (The Lutheran Hymnal, #348, stanza 1)
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for dying for me on the cross, paying for my sins, and promising me a place with You in eternity. Please use me today to share Your love with others. Amen.
"See" you "in" church tomorrow!
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 150 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 6:1-15; Psalm 119:153-160; Acts 3:11-26)
GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT
“But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.” (1 Timothy 6:6-8 ESV)
Being content is not how most people live. All of the TV ads are meant to make us not be content. Their goal is to create a desire to have more of whatever product they are pushing.
The picture attached here reveals a man who could well be very content. Bible study, prayer and meditation can go a long way towards contentment. Ultimately, true contentment comes from sins forgiven and heaven promised to sinners who repent and trust in Christ Jesus as Savior and Lord.
I am content! My Jesus ever lives,
In whom my heart is pleased.
He has fulfilled the law of God for me,
God’s wrath he has appeased.
Since he in death could perish never,
I also shall not die forever.
I am content! I am content!
(“I Am Content! My Jesus Ever Lives,” Lutheran Service Book #468)
Lord Jesus, fill me with godly contentment as I trust you to lead me and watch over me today. Please use me to share You and Your love with others. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 149 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 5:14-31; Psalm 119:145-152; Acts 2:42-3:10)
WALKING AND LEAPING AND PRAISING GOD
But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” And he took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. And leaping up he stood and began to walk, and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. (Acts 3:6-8 ESV)
Can you imagine never being able to walk for your entire life? Then Peter and John appear. You ask for some money, and Peter is used by the Lord to give you something you thought could never be. The lame man’s response is not surprising.... walking and leaping and praising God.
You and I were born lame too. We were not able walk with the Lord. But Jesus came to us with His forgiveness, presence and promise of heaven.
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for granting me spiritual healing and strength by means of Your death on the cross. May I spend the rest of my life walking and leaping and praising You, o blessed Trinity. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 148 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 5:1-13; Psalm 119:137-144; Acts 2:14-41)
WHAT A TEACHER!
“Behold, God is exalted in his power, who is a teacher like him.” (Job 36:22 ESV)
When I was a freshman in high school, we had a teacher who commanded our attention with his gruff and no-nonsense demeanor. When he finished a point and said, “See, huh?”, we were all paying close attention. We knew he was serious about what he wanted us to learn. And we also knew that he really cared about us and wanted God’s best for us!
Job has a similar experience with his Teacher, almighty God. The lesson this Teacher is delivering is one of trust and faith and obedience. His demeanor, too, appears to be gruff and no-nonsense. Job’s friend, Elihu, is reminding Job of the Almighty’s greatness and, therefore, His right to test Job so severely. He also is reminding Job of God’s goodness and the blessings He bestows on the faithful.
When you find yourself in periods of peril, times of testing, and seasons of struggle, remember the goodness of your divine Teacher in sending His Son to pay for the times you were less than faithful. Remember that He really cares for you and wants nothing but His best for you! Remember His goodness and the blessings He bestows on you ... forgiveness, reconciliation, purpose, and, in His perfect time, heaven!
If thou but trust in God to guide thee
And hope in Him through all thy ways,
He’ll give thee strength, whate’er betide thee,
And bear thee through the evil days.
Who trusts in God’s unchanging love
Builds on the rock that naught can move.
(Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #750)
“Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.” Amen. (Psalm 25:5 ESV)
Listen to your Teacher today!
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 147 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 4:19-31; Psalm 119:129-136; Acts 2:1-13)
THE PROMISE
Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” (Acts 2:37-39 ESV)
Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Peter preaches a powerful sermon on Pentecost. The people are “cut to the heart” and ask “what shall we do?” The answer is THE ANSWER for all sinners... for all people like you and me.
“Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins”
Peter then assures us of the importance of infant Baptism by adding: “For the promise is for you and for your children.”
Thank You, heavenly Father, for Your gracious plan to save sinners from eternal doom by granting completer forgiveness for all who repent and believe. Thank also for the assurance that infants are saved by the gift of faith bestowed on them through Baptism. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 146 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 4:1-18 Psalm 119:121-128; Acts 1:12-26)
MY EYES LONG FOR YOUR SALVATION
121 I have done what is just and right;
do not leave me to my oppressors.
122 Give your servant a pledge of good;
let not the insolent oppress me.
123 My eyes long for your salvation
and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise.
124 Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love,
and teach me your statutes.
125 I am your servant; give me understanding,
that I may know your testimonies!
126 It is time for the Lord to act,
for your law has been broken.
127 Therefore I love your commandments
above gold, above fine gold.
128 Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right;
I hate every false way. (Psalm 119:121-128 - ESV)
Heavenly Father, keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and the precious gift of salvation You have for me in Him. Amen.
“See” you in church tomorrow.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 145 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 3:19-25; Psalm 119:113-120; Acts 1:1-11 )
GOD MAKES THE CHOICE
So one of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us—one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” And they put forward two, Joseph called Barsabbas, who was also called Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all, show which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, and he was numbered with the eleven apostles. (Acts 1:21-26 ESV)
As God chose Matthias to be the twelfth man, the disciple who replaced Judas, so God has chosen you to be His disciple. You can take great comfort in this fact.
God puts you
in the right place,
at the right time,
for His right purpose.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your perfect timing in my life. Please use me powerfully in Your service. Amen.
“See” you “in” church this morning.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 144 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 3:6-18; Psalm 119:105-112; Luke 24:36-53)
YOUR MOST IMPORTANT VOW
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 ESV)
David is confessing that the Lord is the light of the believer’s life. This is precisely what we confess on the day of Confirmation. For me, Confirmation day was 55 years ago today when the pastor asked us this question:
Do you intend to continue steadfast in this confession and Church and to suffer all, even death, rather than fall away from it?
My class mates and I answered: “I do so intend with the help of God.”
This was the most important vow of my life, and yours too! On Confirmation Day, we promised to remain true to God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. We promised to even die rather than fall away from God and His Church.
May the Lord bless you as you keep this vow for the rest of your life!
Almighty God, heavenly Father, thank You for Your plan for the salvation of my soul. Please help me to daily fulfill the vow I made to You on the day of my Confirmation. Please keep me faithful for the rest of my life so that I can spend eternity with You. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Join us for worship tomorrow...
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 143 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 2:29-3:5; Psalm 119:97-104; Luke 24:13-35)
SWEETER THAN HONEY
97 Oh how I love your law!
It is my meditation all the day.
98 Your commandment makes me wiser than my enemies,
for it is ever with me.
99 I have more understanding than all my teachers,
for your testimonies are my meditation.
100 I understand more than the aged,
for I keep your precepts.
101 I hold back my feet from every evil way,
in order to keep your word.
102 I do not turn aside from your rules,
for you have taught me.
103 How sweet are your words to my taste,
sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104 Through your precepts I get understanding;
therefore I hate every false way. (Psalm 119:97-104 ESV)
God’s Word of promise in Jesus for all who repent and believe in Him truly is the sweetest treasure on this earth, and in heaven too!
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 #524)
O Jesus, shepherd, guardian, friend,
My Prophet, Priest, and King;
My Lord, my life, my way, my end,
Accept the praise I bring. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 142 - (Today’s Bible readings: ASCENSION DAY - Acts 1:1-11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:15-23; Luke 24:44-53)
CHRIST ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN AND SO WILL YOU
50 And he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. 51 While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. 52 And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53 and were continually in the temple blessing God. (Luke 24:50-53 ESV)
Today we celebrate the Ascension of our Lord. The Ascension is crucial to the Christian faith.
● The promise of Acts 1 is this: “This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11)
ARE YOU READY? (REPENT AND BELIEVE!)
● What is Jesus doing now?
“Who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.” (Romans 8:34)
The hymn writer helps us understand even more about this blessed account:
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 their 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.
(On Christ’s Ascension I Now Build, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #492)
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your ascension and Your assurance that I will also ascend to the glories of heaven and spend eternity with You. Please help me to daily repent of my sins and believe in Your sacrifice for the remission of those sins. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 141 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 2:14-28; Psalm 119:89-96; Luke 24:1-12)
FAITHFULNESS FOREVER
89 Forever, O Lord, your word
is firmly fixed in the heavens.
90 Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
you have established the earth, and it stands fast.
91 By your appointment they stand this day,
for all things are your servants.
92 If your law had not been my delight,
I would have perished in my affliction.
93 I will never forget your precepts,
for by them you have given me life.
94 I am yours; save me,
for I have sought your precepts.
95 The wicked lie in wait to destroy me,
but I consider your testimonies.
96 I have seen a limit to all perfection,
but your commandment is exceedingly broad. (Psalm 119:89-96)
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee.
Thou changest not: Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.
Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
(“Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” Lutheran Service Book #809)
Thank You for Your faithfulness, O God my Father. May Your Holy Spirit keep me faithful to You every day in every way. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 140 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 2:1-13; Psalm 119:81-88; Luke 23:44-56)
O SAVIOR, PRECIOUS SAVIOR
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 deliverance. Long for His salvation, put your hope in His Word... trust, repent and rejoice!
1. O Savior, Precious savior, Whom yet unseen we love;
O name of might and favor, All other names above;
We worship Thee; we praise Thee; To Thee alone we sing;
We praise Thee and confess Thee, Our holy Lord and King.
2. O Bringer of salvation, So marvelously wrought,
Thy-self the revelation Of love beyond our thought;
We worship Thee; we praise Thee; To Thee alone we sing;
We praise Thee and confess Thee, Our gracious Lord and King.
3. In Thee all fulness dwelleth, All grace and pow’r divine;
The glory that excelleth, O Son of God, is Thine.
We worship Thee; we praise Thee; To Thee alone we sing;
We praise Thee and confess Thee, Our holy Lord and King.
4. Oh, grant the consummation Of this our song above
In endless adoration And ever-lasting love;
Then shall we praise and bless Thee Where perfect praises ring
And evermore confess Thee, Our Savior and our King!
(“O Savior, Precious Savior,” Lutheran Service Book #527)
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. In the holy name of Jesus, my precious Savior. Amen.
Link to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
https://zoom.us/j/177003912
Parking Lot Worship Service with Holy Communion 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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 139 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 1; Psalm 119:73-80; Luke 23:32-43)
MERCY FROM THE CREATOR
73 Your hands have made and fashioned me;
give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
74 Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,
because I have hoped in your word.
75 I know, O Lord, that your rules are righteous,
and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.
76 Let your steadfast love comfort me
according to your promise to your servant.
77 Let your mercy come to me, that I may live;
for your law is my delight.
78 Let the insolent be put to shame,
because they have wronged me with falsehood;
as for me, I will meditate on your precepts.
79 Let those who fear you turn to me,
that they may know your testimonies.
80 May my heart be blameless in your statutes,
that I may not be put to shame!
O all-embracing Mercy,
O ever-open Door,
What shall we do without You
When heart and eye run o'er?
When all things seem against us,
To drive us to despair,
We know one gate is open,
One ear will hear our prayer.
(“Today Your Mercy Calls Us,” Lutheran Service Book #915 stanza 4)
Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer. Amen.
Link coming for St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service
(Zoom announced that they had major difficulties yesterday morning.)
Parking Lot Worship Service 10:30 am
Youtube link to all previously recorded services:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNFbkeFTQAhiGc7bafdvlPkfwnuiDfTQ9
Link to Wednesday Online Bible Study 7 PM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85832224078
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 2020 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!
