Tuesday, June 1, 2021 - THE FIRSTFRUITS

 

Day 152 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Chron. 4-6; John 12:20-50)

 

THE FIRSTFRUITS

And Jesus answered them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:23-24 ESV)

“Verse 24 emphasizes the necessity of Jesus’ death as the way to glorification and the blessing of many disciples. According to the time reckoning in John, Jesus rose from the dead on the 16th of  Nisan, the day barley firstfruits were offered in the temple.” (Concordia Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 1806).

St. Paul connected Jesus’ resurrection to firstfruits this way: “But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Corinthians 15:20 ESV)

What comfort we have in the fact that Jesus is the seed that died and bore eternal fruit on Easter. Now, because Jesus lives, you, too, will live.  

Lord Jesus, thank you for dying and rising for me. May I always remember to find comfort in the fact that You are the firstfruits of all who die in the faith.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Monday, May 31, 2021 - REMEMBER

Day 151 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Chron. 1-3; John 12:1-19)

 REMEMBER!

“This day shall be for you a memorial day, and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations…” (Exodus 12:14 ESV)

This verse, from the mouth of God Himself, commanded Moses and the Children of Israel to remember the Passover. It was important to remember how the blood of perfect lambs painted over the doorways to their homes caused death to pass over them. This all pointed to Jesus, the Lamb of God who would shed His blood for the salvation of all who believe. 

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13 ESV)

We remember that Jesus died for us so that death will pass over us on our last day, and we will begin eternity in heaven with Him.

Today we remember the members of our nation’s military who gave the greatest sacrifice by shedding their blood for our freedom. May the Lord grant their families His peace and comfort. And may we never forget their sacrifice!

God bless America, land that I love.

Stand beside her and guide her 

Thru the night with the light from above.

From the mountains to the prairies 

To the oceans white with foam,

God bless America, my home sweet home.

God bless America, my home sweet home. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Sunday, May 30, 2021 - GOD HAS CHOSEN YOU

Day 150 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 28,29; John 11:47-57 )

GOD HAS CHOSEN YOU

“And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever. Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong and do it.” (1 Chronicles 28:9-10 ESV)

In our reading highlight for today, Solomon is getting fatherly advice from his dad, King David. And what advice it is!

● Know the God of your father 

● serve Him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, 

● seek Him and you will find Him

● Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; 

● be strong and do it.

Your heavenly Father has the same advice for you, with one modification. Of course you are not building a temple for the Lord.

● Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to...

May the Lord bless and guide you as you obediently seek His plan for your life.

Heavenly Father, please equip and motivate me to live the life that You have planned for me. Thank You for providing the motivation and example for a life of service that You have revealed to me in the life of Jesus, my Savior, in whose precious name I pray. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Saturday, May 29, 2014 - DO YOU BELIEVE THIS?

May 29, 2014 - Day 149 - 1 Chronicles 26-27 & John 11:18-46

 

DO YOU BELIEVE THIS?

23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” 24 Martha said to him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.” (John 11:23-27 ESV)

Jesus reveals the most astounding news to ever hit our ear drums.

“Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.”

Death is a harsh reality of life on this earth. Sooner or later, we will all die. However, we Christians are assured that death is only temporary. The One who is the resurrection and the life has guaranteed that, through faith in Him, we will live after we die! Christ’s death on the cross, in payment for all of our sins, guarantees this.

But wait. Did you catch what Jesus said in verse 26? “Everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.” Christians never die? That’s right. Our bodies will die, but our souls will not. Like the thief on the cross, or last day is our “today,” when we will be with Jesus in paradise.

There is one more thing that Jesus said that we need to consider: “Do you believe this?”  Do you?

Lord Jesus, thank You for defeating death and promising eternal life to all who believe. May I, like Martha, boldly confess my faith in You at every opportunity.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Friday, May 28, 2017 - ASLEEP IN JESUS

 

May 28, 2017 - Day 148 - 1 Chronicles 23-25 & John 11:1-17

 

ASLEEP IN JESUS

This is the blog that should have been posted this morning. Poor WIFI in our Wausau hotel was the cause. My apologies for this delay.

After saying these things, he said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” The disciples said to him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.” Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he meant taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus has died, and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” (John 11:11-15 ESV)

Early in my ministry, my wife, Barb, would often sing for funerals. One of the hymns often times chosen by families was Asleep In Jesus, Blessed Sleep. The hymn well parallels the account of the death and resurrection of Lazarus.

“Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” 

Jesus is setting up the scene for his disciples benefit. His goal is to strengthen their faith in His power over death. Soon they would see that power as He calls Lazarus from the tomb. For Lazarus, it was a brief and undisturbed repose unbroken by the last of foes. Of course, after his first resurrection, he would die again. But once again, his death is only temporary.

This account should give you comfort, for your death will be only temporary too. Jesus promises to raise you to eternal life with Him on the last day.

Asleep in Jesus!  Oh, for me

May such a blissful refuge be!

Securely shall my ashes lie

And wait the summons from on high

(Asleep in Jesus! Blessed Sleep, The Lutheran Hymnal, CPH, 1941, #587)

Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching me not to fear death because You have it under Your complete control. Remind me of Your promise to raise me to eternal life. And then use me to tell others so they, too, do not have to be afraid.  Amen.

“See” you at the Communion table this morning!

Pastor David Paape 

Daily Bible Reading Chart

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 27, 2021 - THE BIGGER THEY ARE...

 

Day 147 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 20-22 John 10:22-42)

 

THE BIGGER THEY ARE...

And there was again war at Gath, where there was a man of great stature, who had six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot, twenty-four in number, and he also was descended from the giants. And when he taunted Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimea, David's brother, struck him down. These were descended from the giants in Gath, and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants. (1 Chronicles 20:6-8 ESV)

In the Disney movie, Monsters Inc., a big scary monster named Sully falls hard for Boo.  The story line has him give up he scary ways and turn to making little ones, like Boo, laugh instead. It’s a cute story.

The story line of our text is not cute. It’s encouraging. Just like when David was a shepherd boy, his nephew, Jonathan, comes face to face with a giant. In spite of his size and his extra digits, the giant and his comrades falls hard at the hands of David and his servants.

Are you facing any 24 digit-giants in your life? There are many reminders in Scripture of God’s ability to defeat all that causes us fear. My favorite is this:

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28 KJV)

This promise means that, in Christ, the giant challenges in your life have all been defeated!

Lord Jesus, thank You for defeating the giants in my life... sin, death and the devil. Please help me to remember that You are with me always, and that because of my baptism, I need not be afraid. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 26, 2021 - TO WHOM ARE YOU LISTENING?

Day 146 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 17-19 John 10:1-21)

TO WHOM ARE YOU LISTENING?

“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” (John 10:1-5 ESV)

Jesus tells us that there are two voices, the thief and the shepherd. The sheep can either listen to the thief or to the shepherd.

To whom are you listening? Jesus did not come to steel, kill and destroy. And yet foolish sheep (sinners) turn their ears to the thieves and robbers of this wold, instead of  Jesus, their Good Shepherd.

To whom are you listening? It is wise to listen to Jesus. He is the only One who has given His life as a ransom for yours! He is the only One who not only knows your name, but knows exactly what you need for this world and the next.

The King of Love my Shepherd is,

Whose goodness faileth never;

I nothing lack if I am His

And He is mine forever.   (Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, # 709, stanza 1)

Dear Jesus, my Good Shepherd, thank for calling me by name and for moving me to listen to You. Please use me to share Your voice with others, so that they may also know the joy of being Yours forever. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 25, 2021 - THANK THE LORD AND SING HIS PRAISE

Day 145 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 14-16 John 9:24-41)

 

THANK THE LORD AND SING HIS PRAISE

Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name;

    make known his deeds among the peoples!

Sing to him, sing praises to him;

    tell of all his wondrous works!

Glory in his holy name;

    let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! (1 Chronicles 16:8-10 ESV)

“David, the new king, acts as a priest by blessing and ministering to the congregation of Israel. God has consecrated you as a priest in His kingdom to bless, thank and praise God before the nations. He sustains you in this precious service with His very body and blood for the forgiveness of all of your sins.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 652)

Thank the Lord and sing His praise; 

tell ev'ryone what He has done.

Let all who seek the Lord rejoice 

and proudly bear His name.  

He recalls His promises 

and leads His people forth in joy 

with shouts of thanksgiving.  

Alleluia, alleluia.   

(Post Communion Canticle, Divine Service One, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006)

Thank you, Lord, for all that You have done for me. Please lead me through the rest of my life with the joy that comes from sins forgiven, Your presence with me each day, and Your promise of heaven. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 24, 2021 - Day 144 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 11-13 John 9:1-23)

 

THERE IS STILL TIME

“We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work.” (John 9:4 ESV)

Jesus had just healed a man born blind. He explained that the man’s blindness was intended to display God’s works. The Lord then goes on to share some very motivational thoughts for us today.

● Time is running out.

● Night is coming when our work for God will be completed.

● Until then, we have the privilege of living for Him.

How faithful was you witness for Christ yesterday? Did you seek out opportunities to share Him in some way with others? Many of us use a special response to “how are you today?” Answering, “blessed by the Lord,” can open doors to share more about the blessings that are ours in Christ.

“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,

    for his steadfast love endures forever!

 Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,

    whom he has redeemed from trouble.” (Psalm 107:1-2 ESV)

Thank You, merciful Father, for my Baptism and the precious gift of faith You have bestowed on me. Help me to live the rest of my life for You by sharing You with my loved ones and with all others whom You may send my way. In Jesus’s saving name.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 23, 2021 -

Day 143 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 8-10 John 8:37-59)

 

I AM

Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” (John 8:58 ESV)

Jesus was letting His hearers know that He is God, and they knew it. “I am.” That is how God identified Himself to Moses. And that is how Jesus identifies Himself to us.

“I am the bread of life.” (John 6:35 ESV)

“I am the light of the world” (John 8:12 ESV)

“I am the door.” (John 10:9 ESV)

“I am the good shepherd.” (John 10:11 ESV)

“I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:26 ESV)

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6 ESV)

“I am the true vine.” (John 15:1 ESV)

And because Jesus has redeemed us from sin, death and the devil, we get to use the words “I am” as well.

I am Jesus little lamb, 

Ever glad at heart I am;

For my Shepherd gently guides me,

Knows my need and well provides me,

Loves me every day the same,

Even calls me by my name.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #740)

We praise You, almighty God, for putting on flesh and dwelling among us. We thank You, Lord Jesus, for paying for our sins with Your holy, precious blood and with Your innocent suffering and death.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 22, 2021 - TRUE DISCIPLES

Day 142 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 6,7 John 8:21-36)

 

TRUE DISCIPLES

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32 ESV)

Jesus came to this earth to free sinners like you and me from the eternal consequences of our sin and from the power of the devil.

This means everything to us for the devil wants to take us captive with his fake promises... wealth, power, prestige, even health.  None of these can even come close to freeing us.

However, the message of Christ’s cross, His death and resurrection offer eternal freedom to all who believe. So...

● Abide in His Word ... read, mark, learn and inwardly digest the Word of God.

● Know (trust in) His truth.

● Celebrate your freedom in Christ! 

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for freeing me from my enemies of sin, death and the devil. Please give me the desire to remain in Your Word. In Your saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 21, 2021 - GO AND SIN NO MORE

Day 141 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 3-5 John 8:1-20)

 

GO AND SIN NO MORE

The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” (John 8:1-11 ESV)

“Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” While our attention is often drawn to this part of the scene, it is the words Jesus speaks to the woman that I wish to focus on today. “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” 

This is the message we hear in worship as our sins are forgiven. He calls us to also “go, and from now on sin no more.” Yes, the Lord is calling us to... “bear fruits in keeping with repentance.” (Luke 3:8 ESV)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for forgiving my sins. Please grant me the wisdom and the strength to bear the fruit of repentance You require. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 20, 2021 - ARE YOU LISTENING TO JESUS?

Day 140 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chronicles 1,2 John 7:32-53)

 

ARE YOU LISTENING TO JESUS?

The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring him?” The officers answered, “No one ever spoke like this man!” The Pharisees answered them, “Have you also been deceived?” (John 7:45-47 ESV)

 “No one ever spoke like this man!”  Those sent to arrest Jesus return empty-handed and confused. They had never heard anyone like Jesus before. They didn’t understand what He meant by:

“I will be with you a little longer, and then I am going to him who sent me. You will seek me and you will not find me. Where I am you cannot come.” (John 7:33-34 ESV)

“If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.” (John 7:37b ESV)

There was a division among them. Some thought He was a prophet, others thought He was the Messiah. Some wanted to arrest Him, but it was not His time yet.

“No one ever spoke like this man!” (John 7:46 ESV) Can you, too, make this statement? I hope and pray that there is no confusion on your part, for Jesus is the only one who has said:

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

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11 ESV)

“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25 ESV)

These promises from Jesus were spoken to you. Are you listening?

Dearest Lord Jesus, thank You for speaking these life-giving words for me. May the Holy Spirit keep my ears open to all that You have to say for this life and the next. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 19, 2021 - BOLD ACTION

Day 139 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 23-25 John 7:1-31)

 

BOLD ACTION

And the king stood by the pillar and made a covenant before the Lord, to walk after the Lord and to keep his commandments and his testimonies and his statutes with all his heart and all his soul, to perform the words of this covenant that were written in this book. And all the people joined in the covenant. (2 Kings 23:3 ESV)

When Josiah heard the words of the long-lost Book of the Law discovered in the house of the Lord, he initiated reforms that removed false worship. “Such bold action no doubt offended some of his subjects. Today, the Lord may call you to take bold action. Set your heart to serve the Lord and pray for His help to make changes peaceably.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 622)

The greatest change the Lord wants in your life and mine is a humble and contrite heart, the proof of which is a life lived in humble service to almighty God.

Heavenly Father, please make me faithful like Josiah. To that end, remind me of Your mercy revealed in Christ’s sacrificial death and glorious resurrection by which You have freed me from my sin. May I live my life in daily gratitude and thanksgiving for all that You have done and continually do for me. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 18, 2021 - SET YOUR HOUSE IN ORDER

Day 138 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings7:20-22 John 6:45-71)

SET YOUR HOUSE IN ORDER

In those days Hezekiah became sick and was at the point of death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came to him and said to him, “Thus says the Lord, ‘Set your house in order, for you shall die; you shall not recover.’” Then Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and prayed to the Lord, saying, “Now, O Lord, please remember how I have walked before you in faithfulness and with a whole heart, and have done what is good in your sight.” And Hezekiah wept bitterly. And before Isaiah had gone out of the middle court, the word of the Lord came to him: “Turn back, and say to Hezekiah the leader of my people, Thus says the Lord, the God of David your father: I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you...,  and I will add fifteen years to your life...” (2 Kings 20:1-6 ESV)

“Set your house in order.” Those words of warning brought Hezekiah to his knees in prayer. The answer was fifteen more years during which to set his house in order.

“Set your house in order.” Wise words for us too. Yes, make sure you have a will.  Purchase cemetery plots. Plan your funeral. Pick out Scripture lessons and hymns. But, above all, set your spiritual house in order.

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life...  Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” (John 6:47&54 ESV)

Every Sunday we have the privilege of gathering in our churches to make sure that our spiritual houses are set in order.

Heavenly Father, thank You for making it possible for my spiritual house to be in order by trusting in Your Son’s death as payment for my sins. Please bless me with regular attendance at the Communion table and with a deep and abiding faith.  In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 17, 2021 - FAMILY BLESSINGS

Day 137 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today:  2 Kings 18,19 John 6:22-44)

FAMILY BLESSINGS 

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 43 years ago today. Our little family became complete on May 17, 1978, when the Lord blessed us with our son, Adam. He and his sister, Heidi, and now their spouses and children, are truly precious blessing from the Lord. 

The picture included today is of my family who gathered yesterday to be part of my retirement Sunday. It was a day to for me the thank God for the blessings of the church family and my personal family.

“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 he Lord with the comfort and peace that comes from sins forgiven and heaven guaranteed. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Youtube of my farewell Sunday yesterday:

https://youtu.be/_8otOlYTY8E

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 16, 2021 - BLESSED BY THE LORD

Day 136 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 15-17 John 6:1-21)

BLESSED BY THE LORD

“May you be blessed by the Lord he Maker of heaven and earth.” Psalm 115:15

The words of the Psalmist are my parting words and prayer for the members and guests of St. Paul’s in Brown Deer this morning as I share my farewell sermon.

The Psalmist, David, was encouraging God’s people to have nothing to do with idols, with anything other than God. The theme that the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod choose for our observation of the 500 anniversary of the Reformation in 2017 says it this way: IT’S ALL ABOUT JESUS!

If you wish to be blessed by the Lord, stay close to Jesus and the message of His cross!

Heavenly Father, thank You for showering Your best blessings on us by sending Jesus to be our Savior from sin, death and the devil. Please bless me with a deep and abiding faith in Jesus. In His saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Link to St. Paul’s May 16, 2021 Live Stream of my farewell Sunday:

https://youtu.be/6L2PbZhNa2U

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am

both with Holy Communion

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 15, 2021 - NOTHING ON MY OWN

Day 135 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 12-14 John 5:25-47)

 

NOTHING ON MY OWN

30 “I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me... 36b For the works that the Father has given me to accomplish, the very works that I am doing, bear witness about me that the Father has sent me.” (John 5:30&36b ESV)

Jesus is teaching us that He is all about seeking the will of His heavenly Father - “him who sent me.” For Jesus, it was all about doing works that fulfill God the Father’s plan for His life and for ours. 

Jesus said: “I can do nothing on my own.” We would all like to have everything go perfectly well every day. But the Lord does not guarantee that. David records what the Lord does guarantee: “My times are in His hands.” (Psalm 31:15). 

Since Jesus died for our sins and therefore guarantees forgiveness and heaven to all and any who repent and believe, He certainly can lead us through any of the challenges that life may throw our way.

So let’s begin this new day with this prayer of faith and submission to the God who loves us with an unending and peace-instilling love.

I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen. (Luther’s Morning Prayer)

Pastor David Paape

Link to St. Paul’s May 16, 2021 Live Stream of my farewell Sunday:

https://youtu.be/6L2PbZhNa2U

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am

both with Holy Communion

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 14, 2021 - FROM DEATH TO LIFE

Day 134 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 9-11 John 5:1-24)

 

FROM DEATH TO LIFE

Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life. (John 5:24 ESV)

“From death to life,” what a promise. The world thinks this is the opposite of how life really is, from life to death. But God’s plan to redeem us takes us from death to life!

Yes, God’s plan for the salvation of souls is simple. Listen to Jesus and believe God the Father’s offer of complete forgiveness and reconciliation through the cross of Christ.

Lord Jesus, please help me to always listen to You and to trust in the Father’s merciful and amazing plan of salvation. Thank You, Lord, for dying on the cross for me and leading me from death to life with You.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Link to St. Paul’s May 16, 2021 Live Stream of my farewell Sunday:

https://youtu.be/6L2PbZhNa2U

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am

both with Holy Communion

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 13, 2021 - BUILD ON CHRIST’S ASCENSION

Day 133 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 6-8 John 4:31-54)

BUILD ON CHRIST’S ASCENSION

And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:9-11 ESV)

In this uncertain world, it is nice to have something that is certain. “This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

The hymn writer encourages you to rest your future on Christ’s ascension and His immanent return. In fact,

Resting your hope on the ascension of Christ means that you believe that Jesus is your Savior by means of His crucifixion and resurrection.

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.

(“On Christ’s Ascension I Now Build,” Lutheran Service Book Bible, CPH, 2006, #492 stanza 1)

Ascended Lord, thank You for guaranteeing my ascension. Please keep me faithful and ready for Your return. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Recording of St. Paul’s May 9, 2021 Sunday Worship (New Member Reception):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1si12w4ijM

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am

both with Holy Communion

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 12, 2021 - THE WATER OF LIFE

Day 132 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 4,5 John 4:1-30)

THE WATER OF LIFE

Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” 11 The woman said to him, “Sir, you have nothing to draw water with, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water?” ... Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water.” (John 4:10-15 ESV)

Water is basic need of life. The woman at the well was searching for H20. Jesus offered her something much more precious and necessary. The forgiveness of sins that He purchased for us all, quenches our spiritual thirst. 

1. Like the woman at the well I was seeking

For things that could not satisfy:

And then I heard my Savior speaking:

"Draw from my well that never shall run dry". 

Chorus

Fill my cup Lord, I lift it up, Lord!

Come and quench this thirsting of my soul;

Bread of heaven, Feed me till I want no more

Fill my cup, fill it up and make me whole! 

2. There are millions in this world who are craving

The pleasures earthly things afford;

But none can match the wondrous treasure

That I find in Jesus Christ my Lord. Chorus

3. So, my brother, if the things this world gave you 

Leave hunger that won't pass away,

My blessed Jesus will come and save you, 

If you heed to Him and humbly pray; Chorus

Lord Jesus, please quench this thirsting of my soul with the call to repentance and Your gift of saving faith. Thank You for being the water of life. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Recording of St. Paul’s May 9, 2021 Sunday Worship (New Member Reception):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1si12w4ijM

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am

both with Holy Communion

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 11, 2021 - PASSING ON THE MANTEL

 

Day 131 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 1-3 John 3:22-36)

 

PASSING ON THE MANTEL

Then Elijah took his cloak and rolled it up and struck the water, and the water was parted to the one side and to the other, till the two of them could go over on dry ground.

When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you, before I am taken from you.”  And Elisha said, “Please let there be a double portion of your spirit on me.”... And as they still went on and talked, behold, chariots of fire and horses of fire separated the two of them. And Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha saw it and he cried, “My father, my father! The chariots of Israel and its horsemen!” And he saw him no more.

... Then he took the cloak of Elijah that had fallen from him and struck the water, saying, “Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?” And when he had struck the water, the water was parted to the one side and to the other, and Elisha went over. (2 Kings 2:8-14 ESV)

This section of Scripture draws our attention to what is happening to Elijah--chariots and horses of fire and a whirlwind trip to heaven. However, this morning, my thoughts are drawn to what the Holy Spirit is doing in Elijah’s life. The mantle, or cloak, of Elijah is being passed on to his successor, Elisha.

This is what happens when pastors are ordained. They are ready to begin serving. While there is no passing on of spiritual power, there is a sense of following in the steps of another. Three of the pastors present at my ordination 44 years ago had great influence on me, Pastor Harvey Wangerin and Professors Wangerin and Jenne. Pastors Sallach and Lewis also were influential in my years of preparation for the ministry. I thank the Lord for them and for the passing on of the mantle that took place!

God of the prophets, bless the prophet's sons;

Elijah's mantle o'er Elisha cast.

Each age its solemn task may claim but once;

Make each one nobler, stronger than the last.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #682, stanza 1)

Gracious heavenly Father, thank You for the office of the holy ministry. Please keep all pastors faithful to You and the people we are called to serve. Use all of us, professional church workers and lay members, in the joyful task of sharing the love of Jesus with our sin-darkened world. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Recording of St. Paul’s May 9, 2021 Sunday Worship (New Member Reception):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1si12w4ijM

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am

both with Holy Communion

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

May 10, 2021 - YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN

 

DAY 130  (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Kings 21,22 John 3:1-21)

 

YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN

Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:5-8 ESV)

“‘Water’ and ‘spirit’ belong together and point to Christian Baptism.”

Augustine wrote: “In spirit we are born by the water and sacrament.”

Large Catechism: “We take up Baptism, by which we are first received into the Christian Church.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 1782)

“You must be born again.” For most of us that happened when we were baptized as infants. God alone gives faith.  We cannot even cooperate in that event. Even the act of sincerely confessing our faith is something we cannot do on our own. 

“The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”  (1 Corinthians 2:14 ESV)

   .

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.

My loving Father, here You take me

To be henceforth Your child and heir.

My faithful Savior, here You make me

The fruit of all Your sorrows share.

O Holy Spirit, comfort me

When threat'ning clouds around I see.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #590, stanzas 1-2)

So, if a well-meaning Christian of a “different stripe” asks you if you were born again, tell him, “Of course, on the day of my Baptism, when I was a baby.” And then, when the devil tries to make you doubt your salvation, remember that your Baptism means that you are God’s child today, tomorrow and forever.

Gracious heavenly Father, thank You for the comfort of my Baptism. Thank You for granting me saving faith through water and Your Word. Help me to always remember that You came into my life that day and made me Your own. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Recording of St. Paul’s May 9, 2021 Sunday Worship (New Member Reception):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1si12w4ijM

IN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICE and Parking Lot Worship Service 9 am 

both with Holy Communion

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf