Wednesday, March 31, 2021

April 1, 2021 - NOT MY WILL, BUT YOURS...



Day 91 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Judges 6,7; Luke 8:1-21)

NOT MY WILL, BUT YOURS...

“Today also my complaint is bitter; my hand is heavy on account of my groaning."(Job 23:1-2 ESV)  

Faithful Job didn’t take his calamity well. He had lost everything, his family, his wealth, even his health. I think we would complain too! 

Contrast Job’s response to suffering with Jesus’ response to the suffering that He would soon endure:

“Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.”  (Luke 22:42 ESV)

Jesus had far more right to despair than Job did, for He would soon endure the unparalleled suffering and agony of crucifixion for the sins of the world.

“Not my will, but yours be done.” This is the proper prayer for all who follow Jesus. May you know the peace of trusting God to know what is best for you always!

Lord Jesus, thank You obeying Your Father’s will by going to the cruel cross and paying for my sins. Help me to follow Your example and trust God the Father’s will for my life too. In Your saving name. Amen. 
“See” you in church this Maundy Thursday!
Pastor David Paape

Holy Week Schedule

MAUNDY THURSDAY 10:30 am and 7 pm in church 
7 pm in the parking lot.  

The 7 pm service will live streamed and can be accessed by clicking on this link:

GOOD FRIDAY April 2, 2021

1 pm and 7 pm. Parking Lot worship will be at 7 pm.

Holy Communion will be offered in both services and in the parking lot.

The 7 pm service will be live streamed and can be accessed by clicking on this link:

Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021
9 am and 11 am.

CDC Covid guidelines are followed assuring a safe worship environment for all worshipers

Worship will also be offered in the parking lot via your car's FM radio. Holy Communion will also be offered to those who opt for parking lot worship.

The 9 am service will also be live streamed and can be accessed by clicking on this link:

Tuesday, March 30, 2021

March 31, 2021 - THE SECRET TO PEACE



Day 90 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Judges 3-5; Luke 7:31-50)

THE SECRET TO PEACE

Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”  (Luke 7:47-50 ESV)

All we know about the past of the woman in this account is that she was from the city and she was known as a sinner. What we know about her present is that she came to Jesus with a contrite heart shown in her actions of washing his feet with her tears and drying them with her hair. And how did Jesus respond?

“Your sins are forgiven... Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

So what is the secret to peace? It is so very simple.

REPENT AND BELIEVE!

Dear Lord, thank You for the example of the woman who washed Your feet with her tears. Please grant me Your peace as I, too, repent and believe. Amen.

Pastor David Paape


LIVE STREAMING OF SPL WORSHIP SERVICES BEGINS THIS WEEK.

Holy Week Schedule

Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)

7 pm Live Stream Link   https://youtu.be/zyoanUmv4SM



Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Link coming....



Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)
Link coming....

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

Monday, March 29, 2021

March 30, 2021 - CHIEF OF SINNERS



Day 89 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Judges 1,2; Luke 7:1-30)
CHIEF OF SINNERS

“Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven–for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” (Luke 7:47  ESV)

Jesus teaches that even notorious sinners can be forgiven and restored; indeed, they sometimes become all the more devoted to God for having received greater deliverance. His teaching challenges us to consider: 

●  Do we act like the begrudging Pharisee or the grateful penitent?
●  Do we trust that God can truly change people’s lives? 

By God’s spirit, we grow daily in our appreciation of the fact that “where sin increased, grace abounded all the more." (Romans 5:20).  

“Your faith has saved you, go in peace.” (Luke 7:50  ESV)

Those are Christ’s words to you and to all who are willing to admit their desperate need for forgiveness.

Chief of sinners though I be,  Jesus shed His blood for me;
Died that I might live on high, Lives that I might never die.
As the branch is to the vine, I am His and He is mine.
(Chief of Sinners Though I Be, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #611)

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your priceless gift of forgiveness. Jesus, thank You for shedding You precious blood for this poor miserable sinner. May I be Yours forever. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LIVE STREAMING OF SPL WORSHIP SERVICES BEGINS THIS WEEK.
Links to services to be lived streamed will be coming in the next few days.

Holy Week Schedule


Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)

Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)

Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 



Sunday, March 28, 2021

March 29, 2021 - JUDGE NOT



Day 88 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 23,24; Luke 6:27-49 )

JUDGE NOT

“Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”  (Luke 6:37-38 ESV)
Jesus is teaching us to be...

nonjudgmental
forgiving and 
giving.

He then promises that we will receive the same in return. Of course, the ultimate motivation for following these directions is to simply to...

obey
serve and 
glorify God.

Jesus clearly wants us to know that when we live for Him by living for others, we can’t lose. He put it this way in Matthew’s Gospel:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:335)

Lord Jesus, help me to be nonjudgmental, forgiving and giving. May my motivation be Your dying love for me. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LIVE STREAMING OF SPL WORSHIP SERVICES BEGINS THIS WEEK.
Links to services to be lived streamed will be coming in the next few days.

Holy Week Schedule


Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)

Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)

Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

Saturday, March 27, 2021

March 28, 2021 - NO GOOD DEED GOES UNPUNISHED



Day 87 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 21,22; Luke 6:1-26)

NO GOOD DEED GOES UNPUNISHED

9 And Jesus said to them, “I ask you, is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to destroy it?” 10 And after looking around at them all he said to him, “Stretch out your hand.” And he did so, and his hand was restored. 11 But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.  (Luke 6:9-11 ESV)
The dog that bites his master as he gives his pet some food, the good samaritan who gets sued by the person he tried to help, and the compassionate Savior who heals a man’s withered hand all have something in common. They proved that, many times, no good deed goes unpunished.

 “Stretch out your hand.” And he did so, and his hand was restored. 11 But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.

Jesus has compassion on a man whose life and livelihood were greatly hampered by his withered hand. The only problem, in the eyes of His enemies, was that the Lord did this “work” on the Sabbath. His kind miracle filled them with anger and with a desire to get back at Him. His kindness would not go unpunished if they had anything to say about it.

They certainly had plenty to say! 

“Crucify him... His blood be on us and on our children.” (Matthew 23:23-25)

Jesus’ good deed of healing on the Sabbath did not go unpunished. As unfair as this is, it was all part of God the Father’s plan for our salvation. Thank God our kind and compassionate Jesus was punished on the cross for us!

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for healing the withered hand on the Sabbath, showing Your divinity. Thank You even more for healing my sin-withered soul. Regardless of how some may be negatively rewarded for acts of kindness, please guide me and empower me to continue to serve You by sharing Your kindness with others. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Holy Week Schedule

Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)

Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)

Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 
http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Friday, March 26, 2021

March 27, 2021 - MAN, YOUR SINS ARE FORGIVEN



Day 86 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 19,20; Luke 5:17-39)

MAN, YOUR SINS ARE FORGIVEN

And behold, some men were bringing on a bed a man who was paralyzed, and they were seeking to bring him in and lay him before Jesus, but finding no way to bring him in, because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and let him down with his bed through the tiles into the midst before Jesus. And when he saw their faith, he said, “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” When Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answered them, “Why do you question in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” And immediately he rose up before them and picked up what he had been lying on and went home, glorifying God.  (Luke 5:18-25 ESV)
The point of this miracle is not the hole in the roof. It is not even the fact that the man walked away from the house to which he had been carried. The main point of this miracle is that Jesus has the authority to forgive sins. Of course, we Christians do not doubt this since we believe that Jesus is both the Son of God and the Son of Man.

 “Man, your sins are forgiven you.” 

● This is the awesome news we get to hear week in and week out when we gather in churches. 
● This is the good news we get to share with other sinners who need our Jesus just as desperately as we do.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for healing the paralyzed man’s body and soul. Thank You for forgiving me too. Please use me to share Your forgiveness with others. Amen.
Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Holy Week Schedule

Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Thursday, March 25, 2021

March 26, 2021 - DON’T BE AFRAID, FISH



Day 85 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 16-18; Luke 5:1-16)

DON’T BE AFRAID, FISH

For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken... And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.  (Luke 5:9-11 ESV)
Simon and his fishing buddies had just experienced a frustrating and futile fishing trip. Jesus told them to “Put out in the deep and let down your nets.” They did as they were told, and soon their nets were full and breaking. They called to their friends in another boat, and soon both boats began to sink. Peter’s next words reveal that he got the message. "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man.” 

Jesus then teaches us an important rule about witnessing to others. He only uses sinners to tell other sinners about His plan to save them. How does that make you feel?

“Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.”

Do not be afraid! God has a job for you and me to do. We get to tell others about Him and His plan to forgive sinners and promise us heaven. Although our fearful human tendency is to not stand up for Him, we do have His promise: 

“And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20 ESV)

So, do not be afraid, just fish. Just share the good news about Jesus whenever and with whomever you can.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for my Baptism and the gift of saving faith You have bestowed upon me. Thank you also for calling me to fish for men, to share Your story with others who need You as desperately as I do. Please use me to reach more souls for You and for eternity. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Holy Week Schedule
Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Wednesday, March 24, 2021

March 25, 2021 - IMMEDIATE HEALING



Day 84 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 14,15; Luke 4:33-44)

IMMEDIATE HEALING

“And he arose and left the synagogue and entered Simon's house. Now Simon's mother-in-law was ill with a high fever, and they appealed to him on her behalf. And he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her, and immediately she rose and began to serve them.”  (Luke 4:38-39 ESV)

Peter’s mother-in-law was ill, perhaps seriously ill. “They appealed to him (Jesus) on her behalf.” Most likely this is referring to Peter and Mrs. Peter. They did what God’s children are told to do.

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

Did you notice that Christ’s healing is immediate and complete?

“And he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her, and immediately she rose and began to serve them.” 

When our DIVINE PHYSICIAN grants healing to us today, many times it involves an extended period of rehab, often spent away from home in a facility that specializes in this crucial part of the healing process. Not so with Jesus. He heals the woman, and immediately she gets to work.

While we don’t often see that kind of complete healing immediately granted to us, we can look forward to exactly that kind of immediate healing from all of lives woes.

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” (Revelation 21:3-4 ESV)

Yes, the healing of heaven and the beginning of eternal life will be complete and immediate for the believer in Christ... THE BEST IS YET TO COME!

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for answering my prayers for healing in a way that is best for me. Thank You even more, for promising me that the best is yet to come for all who repent and believe. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Holy Week Schedule
Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Tuesday, March 23, 2021

March 24, 2021 - JESUS IS THE ONE



Day 83 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 11-13; Luke 4:1-32)

JESUS IS THE ONE

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
    because he has anointed me
    to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives
    and recovering of sight to the blind,
    to set at liberty those who are oppressed,
to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.”
And he rolled up the scroll (Isaiah) and gave it back to the attendant and sat down. And the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. And he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”  (Luke 4:18-21 ESV)

When Jesus returned home to Nazareth, His first stop was the local synagogue where He shared the words of today’s devotion. His concluding words let His hearers know that He is the One, the promised Messiah. Look again at what the Messiah came to do.

● Proclaim good news to the poor.
● Proclaim liberty to the captives.
● Provide recovery of sight to the blind.
● Set at liberty those who are oppressed.
● Proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.

Jesus did come to proclaim the mercy of His Father to the poor, captive, blind and oppressed. However, the ultimate mission His Father sent Him on involved a cross, and bitter suffering and death as our substitute. We now receive the Lord’s favor through faith in Jesus who has set us free, liberating us from sin, death and the devil. 

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being the promised One, the Messiah, my Lord and Savior. May all that I do and say today glorify Your name and be used by the Holy Spirit to witness to others. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

Holy Week Schedule
Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Monday, March 22, 2021

March 23, 2021 - PLEASED WITH JESUS



Day 82 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 9,10; Luke 3)

PLEASED WITH JESUS

Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heavens were opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”  (Luke 3:21-22 ESV)

God the Father speaks at the Baptism of His Son. 

“You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”  

The Father was pleased with Jesus that day, and He was pleased with His Son when He spread out His arms on the cross and fulfilled the Father’s plan for the salvation of the world!

Hear all about the Father’s great plan for your salvation when you read your Bible today and when you attend church this weekend. When you are reminded again of all that Jesus has done for you, you, too, will be pleased with Him.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for pleasing Your Father by following His amazing plan for the salvation of the world. Thank You for forgiving me and for preparing my place in heaven for me. Amen.
Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion

Holy Week Schedule
Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Sunday, March 21, 2021

March 22, 2021 - IN YOUR FATHER’S HOUSE



Day 81 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 7,8; Luke 2:25-52)

IN YOUR FATHER’S HOUSE

After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. And when his parents saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.” And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?” (Luke 2:46-49 ESV)

Jesus’ mother and stepfather had spent three anxious days searching for Him. They finally found Him in the temple, amazing the Bible scholars with His knowledge. This should not be surprising since He is God, the author of Scripture.

He also teaches by example the blessing of being in church. His words are to be our words.

“Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?”

What blessings are ours when we spend time being fed with God’s Word and Sacrament.

During these days of covid precautions, St. Paul’s offers three different safe ways to worship...

   1) In church, following CDC guidelines by wearing masks and staying 6 feet apart.

   2) In our church parking and listening to the service on an a low frequency FM channel and bringing Holy Communion out to the cars.

   3) On line via Zoom and YouTube.

May you be blessed every week as you gather in, at or on church and are fed with the Good News of the forgiveness of your sins bestowed on you through Jesus!

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for showing us how important it is to be in Your Father’s house. Please bless me with Your forgiveness, faith and obedience when I make my weekly visits to church. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion

Holy Week Schedule
Maundy Thursday April 1 10:30 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Good Friday April 2 1:00 am & 7:00 pm
(Parking lot 7:00 pm only)
Easter Sunday April 4 9:00 am & 11:00 am
(Parking lot both services)

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Saturday, March 20, 2021

March 21, 2021 - AND THE WALL CAME TUMBLING DOWN



Day 80 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 4-6; Luke 2:1-24)
AND THE WALL CAME TUMBLING DOWN

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

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

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

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Friday, March 19, 2021

March 20, 2021 - GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOU TOO



Day 79 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Joshua 1-3; Luke 1:57-80)

GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOU TOO

Luke 1:66 ff “What then will this child be?” For the hand of the Lord was with him.

The scene is quite dramatic. Elizabeth had just given birth to John (later referred to as John the Baptizer). Eight days later the relatives ask Elizabeth what the baby will be named. They don’t understand her answer. They have no relatives named John. Her husband, Zechariah, who has been silent for the past nine months, writes on a tablet, “His name is John.” And then something really amazing happens – the mute man begins to speak.

What is even more amazing is what his first words were – “And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied.” He proclaimed that his son was set aside for unique service to the Lord. 

76 And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High;
    for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways,
77 to give knowledge of salvation to his people
    in the forgiveness of their sins...
79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
    to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
80 And the child grew and became strong in spirit.

John would be the forerunner of Jesus, calling his hearers to “behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.”

God had a plan for John’s life, and He has a plan for your life too. What is His plan for you? The answer is found in listening to God as He teaches you and directs you in the Bible. The answer is also found in listening to the advice of other Christians (parents, grandparents, teachers and pastors).

Heavenly Father, as You revealed Your plan for John’s life, so let me know what You want me to do with the rest of my life. As You lead me through each day, grant me the comfort and assurance that come from sins forgiven and heaven guaranteed. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Thursday, March 18, 2021

March 19, 2021 - THE BABY LEAPED



Day 78 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Deuteronomy 33,34; Luke 1:24-56)
THE BABY LEAPED

And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb....“For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.” (Luke 1:41&44 ESV)

Our verse for today states, “The baby leaped.” These words give us several precious insights.

● The baby in Mary’s womb is very special (He is Jesus, the long-promised Messiah).

● Little John, in Elizabeth’s womb, was moved to leap in the presence of his cousin and Savior.

● There is life in the womb (we believe from the moment of conception).

We hear nothing of Elizabeth anywhere other than Luke 1. We do hear much more about Mary, the mother of our Lord. While she is filled with joy both here and at the birth of Jesus, there will be a time when she will experience the opposite, as foretold by Simeon.

And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed and a sword will pierce through your own soul also.”  (Luke 2:34&35 ESV) Mary’s soul would be pierced as she witnessed the crucifixion of her son. 

John leaped in utero at the in utero presence of the One who would die for him. The womb is a powerful place, a blessed place, an honored place. 

May we spiritually leap with joy as we remember that Jesus accomplished the complete removal of our sins when He died that first Good Friday. And may we leap with joy for every life protected in utero, born physically, and then born spiritually through Baptism.

Lord Jesus, thank You for coming to this earth as a baby so that You could die on the cross for me and for all sinners. Help me to do all that I can to protect and promote Your gifts of physical and spiritual life. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Wednesday, March 17, 2021

March 18, 2021 - BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS... IN CHRIST



Day 77 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Deuteronomy 31,32; Luke 1:1-23)
BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS... IN CHRIST

“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 spoke these words to Israel, God’s people, as they prepared to enter the Promised Land where they would not be welcome by the inhabitants. But God promised to defeat these enemies and bless His people.

We, too, have a promised land to look forward to – the eternal promised land of heaven. We, too, have to deal with formidable enemies – the enemies of sin, death and the devil. Once again, God promises to defeat our enemies in preparation for entrance into heaven. And this He did on Mt. Calvary by means of the cross and the Lamb. What joy we can have in facing the future knowing that Jesus shed His blood to redeem us and to make us heirs of heaven!

However, Christians often face opposition and persecution. In North Korea, fellow believers in Christ were killed for possessing Bibles. The early church experienced this kind of cruel hatred, as the picture portrays. Yet they could be strong and courageous because they believed in God’s promise that heaven was theirs because of their faith in Christ. In Christ they could face a horrible death. They could be strong and courageous in Christ.

 Most of do not know that kind of persecution, yet these words are for us too: “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.” 

Whatever challenges you are facing today, know that the Lord is with you. 

●  He will NEVER turn His back on you! 

●  Your Baptism assures you of this. 

●  Christ’s body and blood, given and shed for you, assure you of this. 

●  The words of absolution heard in the Divine Service assure you of this. 

●  So, don’t be afraid. 

●  You are not alone. 

●  God is with you no matter your circumstances may be! 

Heavenly Father, thank You for my Baptism and the faith You have given me in Jesus. Please keep me strong and courageous in Christ no matter what challenges and trials I face in this life. Constantly remind me that You will never leave me or forsake me. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774

Tuesday, March 16, 2021

March 17, 2021 - GO AND TELL



Day 76 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Deuteronomy 29,30; Mark 16)
GO AND TELL

 And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. (Mark 16:15-16 ESV)

Patrick was a missionary in Ireland during the second half of the fifth century, a time when that country knew only paganism. His efforts were greatly blessed as the Lord led many Druids to Christianity. Patrick died on March 17, 461, making today St. Patrick’s Day. However, I am sure that he would not be pleased with how the day has become a day for merely the wearing of the green and drinking.

Patrick was concerned with the souls of a people that had kidnapped him at the age of 16 and dragged him from Great Britain to Ireland. Several years later he escaped and began preparing for the priesthood and his eventual role as a missionary to the Irish

In our verse for today, Jesus says “go and tell,” which is exactly what Patrick did.

“Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” 
 
The Lord then gives us the ultimate motivation for such service.

“Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.”

Heaven and hell are in the balance. People either are saved through faith in Christ, or they are lost and damned for not believing in Christ.

How do we respond when we hear God’s command to “go and tell” today? My prayer is that we also obey.
Dear Jesus, thank You for calling me to saving faith in You. Please use me to go and tell others so that they can also be saved and not condemned. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

LINK to St. Paul’s 9 am online Sunday Worship Service:
Password: 843774

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am
both with Holy Communion
IN CHURCH WEDNESDAY SERVICE 7 pm with Holy Communion

You Tube link to all previously recorded services:
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

THURSDAY EVENING ONLINE BIBLES CLASS at 7 pm
Password: 843774