Thursday, September 29, 2022 - HOPE BUILT ON JESUS

 

"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)

Day 272 - (Today’s Bible readings: Amos 1:13-2:5; Psalm 88; Romans 16:1-16)

HOPE BUILT ON JESUS

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13 ESV)

The US Constitution does not promise happiness, it simply promises the pursuit of happiness. The Bible does promise genuine, deep down and lasting joy and peace to all who trust in Jesus!

Do you realize how blessed you are to be a child of God? Do you recognize the glorious hope / guarantee of sins forgiven, your relationship with God restored, and heaven promised that you have in Jesus?  

My hope is built on nothing less 

Than Jesus blood and righteousness.

No merit of my own I claim 

But wholly lean on Jesus' name.

On Christ the solid Rock I stand; 

All other ground is sinking sand.

(“My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #575 stanza 1)

Lord Jesus, thank You for filling me with hope, joy and peace by taking my place on the cross and covering all of my sins. Help me to not rely on my own deeds but to wholly lean on Your precious name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Wednesday, September 28, 2022 - JERUSALEM THE GOLDEN

"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)

Wednesday, September 28, 2022 - Day 271 - (Today’s Bible readings: Amos 1:1-12; Psalm 87; Romans 15:22-33)

JERUSALEM THE GOLDEN

On the holy mount stands the city he founded; the Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwelling places of Jacob. Glorious things of you are spoken, O city of God. Selah. (Psalm 87:1-3 ESV)

The Psalmist is impressing upon us the fact that heaven will be glorious. Here is how the hymn writer expressed this fact:

1. Jerusalem the golden,

    With milk and honey blest--

    The promise of salvation,

    The place of peace and rest--

    We know not, oh, we know not

    What joys await us there;

    The radiancy of glory,

    The bliss beyond compare!

2. Within those halls of Zion

    Sounds forth the joyful song,

    As saints join with the angels

    and all the martyr throng.

    The Prince is ever with them;

    The daylight is serene;

    The city of the blessed

    Shines bright with glorious sheen.

3. Around the throne of David,

    The saints, from care released,

    Raise loud their songs of triumph

    To celebrate the feast.

    They sing to Christ their leader,

    Who conquered in the fight,

    Who won for them forever

    Their gleaming robes of white.

4. O sweet and blessèd country,

    The home of God's elect!

    O sweet and blessed country

    That faithful hearts expect!

     In mercy, Jesus, bring us

    To that eternal rest

    With You and God the Father

    And Spirit, ever blest.

    (“Jerusalem the Golden,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH # 672)

Heavenly Father, thank You for promising to make the new Zion, the city of God, glorious. Yet, with the Psalmist, I know that it is being in Your presence that will be truly glorious. Please keep me close to You through faith in Jesus, my Savior. Amen.  

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Tuesday, September 27, 2022 - TEACH ME LORD

"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)

Day 270 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 3:17-21; Psalm 86; Romans 15:8-21)

TEACH ME LORD

“For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace. In the day of my trouble I call upon you,  for you answer me... Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.” (Psalm 86:5-7, 11 ESV)

As we get older, we sometimes get the mistaken notion that learning is over. However, due to our sinful nature, learning is never over. We don’t seem to get it. His command is perfection, not even one sinful thought. This is why David is pleading for mercy. He knew well personal days of trouble. He knew his sin. He admitted his sin. He called on the Lord for help. And he prayed: “Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.” 

And what is the Lord’s way? Listen to Jesus: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 ESV)

The truth we get to “walk in” is the forgiveness of sins and the promise of heaven. However, this “walk” starts with a serious assessment of ones sinful condition. It continues as we “learn of” the good news that Jesus died on the cross for us, paying for every one of our many, many sins.

Christ be my Teacher in age as in youth,

Drifting or doubting, for He is the truth.

Grant me to trust Him; though shifting as sand,

Doubt cannot daunt me; in Jesus I stand.

 (Christ Be My Leader, Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #861 stanza 2)

Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching me about my sin and my Savior. Please help me to walk in Your truth. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Monday, September 26, 2022 - FREE TO SERVE OTHERS

"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)

Day 269 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:28-3:3; Psalm 84; Romans 14:1-12)

FREE TO SERVE OTHERS

“Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.”  (Romans 14:13 ESV)

Paul continues to deal specifically with first-century controversial issues among Jewish and Gentile Christians (food and holy days). Paul knew all foods are clean, but flaunting his freedom will give offense in the presence of Jewish Christians who still observe Old Testament food laws. In similar manner, we should not engage in behaviors that would cause other believers to stumble in their faith. Freedom in Christ is not simply freedom from the Law, but freedom given for a purpose, to serve others in love.

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”  (Galatians 5:13)

Father, thank You for the freedom You give me in the kingdom of Your Son, Jesus.  May I enjoy my freedom by using it to serve others.  Show me how I ought to limit my freedom for the benefit of my brothers and sisters in the faith. Amen. (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 1938-1939)

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Sunday, September 25, 2022 - WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?

"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)

Day 268 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:28-3:3; Psalm 84; Romans 14:1-12)

WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8 ESV)

The devil is an expert at confusing our thinking. This is why the Holy Spirit led Paul to give us this thought-provoking advice. But it is not merely positive thinking that is being advanced here. 

What is worthy of all praise? The answer is the Gospel, the message of God’s grace showered upon sinners like you and me. It is the Gospel that we need to remember more often than we do.

Peter gives us more details of what God wants us to think about in his first letter: 

“Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:13 ESV)

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your undeserved mercy and grace showered upon me and all sinners who repent and trust in You. Help me to think about that which is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion table this morning!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Saturday, September 24, 2022 - RETURN TO THE LORD

"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)

Day 267 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:18-27; Psalm 83; Romans 13)

RETURN TO THE LORD

“‘Yet even now,’ declares the Lord, ‘return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments.’ Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.” (Joel 2:12-13 ESV)

“Return to the Lord your God” is the message John the Baptizer proclaimed in his day. His hearers desperately needed to be called to repentance so that they could receive God’s mercy and forgiveness.

“Return to the Lord your God” is the message all mankind needs to hear today too! We, too, need to repent so that we can receive Christ’s steadfast love and mercy. We, too, need to have our sins forgiven.

Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to return to You through faith in Jesus. Please continue to be gracious and merciful to me so that I may be reconciled to You now and eternally. May others hear Your voice calling them to return to You through me. In the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen.  

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Friday, September 23, 2022 - LOVE IN ACTION

"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)

Day 266 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:12-17; Psalm 82; Romans 12:1-21)

LOVE IN ACTION

“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:9-10, 21 ESV)

How do you measure up? Need help? Then focus on this godly definition of love: “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 NIV)

  Love in Christ is strong and living, 

  Binding faithful hearts in one;

  Love in Christ is true and giving, 

  May His will in us be done.

  (“Love in Christ is Strong and Living”, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #706 stanza 1)

Lord Jesus, may Your dying love for mankind motivate me to return Your love by loving others.  Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Thursday, September 22, 2022 - FOOLS LET ANGER FESTER

"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)

Day 265 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:1-11; Psalm 81; Romans 11:25-36)

FOOLS LET ANGER FESTER 

“Be not quick in your spirit to become angry,

for anger lodges in the heart of fools.” (Ecclesiastes 7:9 ESV)

We have all known people that have a difficult time controlling their anger. You learn to treat them in a cautious manner. How are you doing with anger? 

This is an important question.  Uncontrolled anger can have some terrible consequences, such as broken relationships.

Paul urges us to apologize for angry outbursts and seek reconciliation.  

‘Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger.” (Ephesians4:26) 

The best motivation for controlling our anger comes from remembering that Jesus’ death has assuaged God the Father’s anger over our sins. All who repent and believe in Christ are reconciled to God and are free to share that reconciliation with others.

Heavenly Father, thank You for not being angry with me over my sins. Help me to share Your forgiveness with that person(s) I have been angry with. Just as I celebrate my reconciliation with You, may that person and I soon celebrate our reconciliation. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Wednesday, September 20, 2022 - THE LORD IS WITH YOU TOO

"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)

Day 263 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 9; Psalm 74; Romans 7:7–25)

THE LORD IS WITH YOU TOO

“Solomon the son of David established himself in his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with him and made him exceedingly great.” (2 Chronicles 1:1 ESV)

Solomon was truly “blessed by the Lord.” (Psalm 115:15)  His father, King David, planned the temple, Solomon got to build it. David was a man of war; Solomon enjoyed a peace-filled reign. He took hold of his role as king with humility and dedication to God. “And the Lord his God was with him and made him exceedingly great.”

How about you? Are you attempting to humbly follow the Lord’s plan for your life? No, you will most likely not be as wise, not nearly as well-known, and not as rich as Solomon. Yet, the Lord has a plan for you. Whatever your vocation, God is calling you to live your life fully for Him.

The good news is that even when you fail in living fully for the Lord, God is with you. He is with you with His redemption, reconciliation, and renewal.

1 Renew me, O eternal Light,

   And let my heart and soul be bright,

   Illumined with the light of grace

   That issues from Your holy face.

4 Grant that I only You may love

   And seek those things which are above

   Till I behold You face to face,

   O Light eternal, through Your grace.

     (Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, # 704)

Lord, heavenly Father, thank You for Your plan for my life. May I be faithful to You. And may You remain with me always! Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Tuesday, September 20, 2022 - DON’T FORGET

"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)

Day 263 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel1:1-11; Psalm 79; Romans 11:1-10)

DON’T FORGET 

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, 

and forget not all his benefits,

who forgives all your iniquity, 

who heals all your diseases, 

who redeems your life from the pit, 

who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, 

who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”  (Psalm 103:2-5 ESV) 

The psalmist is calling us to bless the Lord because He has first blessed us. And what is at the top of the list of His blessings (benefits)?

●  Your sins (iniquities) are all forgiven. 

●  Your soul has been healed. 

●  Your life has been redeemed. 

●  And the Lord has crowned you with His love, mercy and goodness.

Sounds like blessings worth remembering, right?

 

Thank You, Lord, for all Your benefits to me. I do not deserve any of them. Yet You daily shower me with Your forgiveness, redemption and my daily life. My response is to bless You, O Lord. Please keep showering me with Your blessed benefits for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

Don’t forget how blessed by the Lord you are!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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! 

Monday, September 19, 2022 - LORD, HAVE MERCY

 

"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)

Day 262 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 14; Psalm 78:36-72; Romans 10:5-21)

LORD, HAVE MERCY

 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”. (Romans 10:13 ESV)

What good news for sinners caught in an evil world! God invites us to call on Him for forgiveness and salvation. In fact, this is what we get to do every time we gather around God’s Word and Sacraments on Sunday morning. We cry out to the Lord for peace and mercy. And He grants these treasures in great abundance to all who repent and believe!

In peace let us pray to the Lord.

Lord, have mercy.

For the peace from above and for our salvation let us pray to the Lord. 

Lord, have mercy.

For the peace of the whole world, for the well-being of the Church of God, and for the unity of all let us pray to the Lord.

Lord, have mercy.

For this holy house and for all who offer here their worship and praise let us pray to the Lord.

Lord, have mercy.

Help, save, comfort, and defend us, gracious Lord. 

Amen.

(The Kyrie, The Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, Divine Service One)

Lord, thank You for promising forgiveness and salvation to me when I call on You. Lord, have mercy on me, a poor, miserable sinner. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Sunday, September 18, 2022 - TEACHING CHILDREN

"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)

Day 261 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 13; Psalm 78:1-35; Romans 9:27-10:4)

TEACHING CHILDREN

I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old, things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. (Psalm 78:2-4 ESV)

If we don’t teach our children to believe in Jesus, the world will teach them not to. Let us not fall down on the job and fail to teach children the things of God. How precious when little ones can sing/pray these word:

1. Let me learn of Jesus, He is kind to me;

Once He died to save me, Nailed upon a tree.

2. When I go to Jesus, He will hear me pray,

Make me pure an holy, Take my sin away.

3. Let me think of Jesus, He is full of love,

Looking down upon me, From His throne above.

4. Oh, how good is Jesus, May He hold my hand

And at last receive me To a better land.

(“Let Me Learn of Jesus,” All God’s People Sing, #156)

Almighty God, please bless children with truth of You love and mercy in sending Jesus to be the Savior of all and any who repent and believe. Amen. 

 

“See” you in church this morning!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Friday, September 16, 2022 - THE BEST IS YET TO COME

 

"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)

Day 259 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 11; Psalm 76; Romans 8:18-39)

THE BEST IS YET TO COME

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. (Romans 8:18 ESV)

Life can really be rough sometimes. What we need to remember at those times is simply that our problems and struggles are only temporary. Paul is reminding us that nothing we experience now can compare with the glories of heaven.

“What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9 ESV)

The glories of heaven are far beyond what we are able to comprehend now.

I can only imagine

What it would be like

When I walk by your side

I can only imagine

What my eyes would see

When your face is before me

I can only imagine

I can only imagine

Surrounded by your glory

What will my heart feel

Will I dance for you Jesus

Or in awe of You be still

Will I stand in your presence

To my knees will I fall

Will I sing hallelujah

Will I be able to speak at all

(“I Can Only Imagine” MercyMe)

Heavenly Father, remind me when things are rough, that this life is only temporary and that the best is yet to come. In Jesus’ saving name, amen. 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Thursday, September 15, 2022 - NOT CONDEMNED

 "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)

Day 258 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 19; Psalm 75; Romans 8:1-17)

NOT CONDEMNED

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:1 ESV) 

Ever since Adam and Eve gave into temptation and fell into sin, guilt and fear of condemnation have been our human lot. In spite of those who try to cover up and deny their sins, we all stand condemned on our own. Any attempt to correct our condition on our own is futile. 

Jesus offers us the solution with His invitation to “repent and believe,” (Mark 1:5) leading Paul to conclude: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” 

Fellow sinner, redeemed in the blood of Jesus, rejoice in this glorious thought.

My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought!

My sin, not in part but the whole,

Is nailed to His cross, and I bear it no more,

Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

It is well (it is well),

with my soul (with my soul),

It is well, it is well with my soul.

(“When Peace, Like a River,” Lutheran Service Book, #762)

Holy Spirit, thank You for calling me to faith in my Savior, Jesus. Help me to share the good news that there is no condemnation for anyone who trusts in Jesus. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Wednesday, September 14, 2022 - DON’T REAP THE WHIRLWIND

 

"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)

Day 257 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 9; Psalm 74; Romans 7:7-25)

DON’T REAP THE WHIRLWIND

“For they sow the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind”  (Hosea 8:7 ESV)

“Topping the list of Israel’s misdeeds is idolatry–their rejection of the Creator and their devotion to calves made of gold. Verse 7 stresses the futility of turning away from God and trusting in idols . One sowing the wind can hardly expect any harvest but a whirlwind. Sadly, we too, begin to fall into idolatry whenever we fear, love, and trust anything or any person more than the true God. Admitting that, we should also remember that the same God threatening to punish idolatry is also the One whose forgiving love and sustaining Spirit never fails.”   (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 1438)

Lord, Thee I love with all my heart;

I pray Thee, ne’er from me depart,

With tender mercy cheer me.

Earth has no pleasure I would share.

Yea, heav’n itself were void and bare

If Thou, Lord, wert not near me.

And should my heart for sorrow break,

My trust in Thee can nothing shake.

Thou art the portion I have sought;

Thy precious blood my soul has bought.

Lord Jesus Christ, my God and Lord, my God and Lord,

Forsake me not! I trust Thy Word.

(“Lord, Thee I Love with All My Heart,” Lutheran Service Book #708)

Heavenly Father, keep me faithful to You so that I do not live an aimless and Christless life, thereby reaping the eternal whirlwind of damnation. I beg this of You for Jesus’ sake.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Tuesday, September 13, 2022 - BE NEAR ME LORD JESUS!

"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)

 

Day 256 - (Today’s Bible: Hosea 8; Psalm 73; Romans 7:1-6)

BE NEAR ME LORD JESUS!

“But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.”  (Psalm 73:28 ESV) 

“Being troubled by doubt and envy does not mean that we have lost our faith.  We are called to struggle against doubt and envy. We find strength to do so in the certainty of the final outcome of God’s promises.”  (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 918)

“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NIV)

No wonder David calls God his refuge. Christ is our refuge too. It so important to always, always, always stay close to our Jesus!  And how do we do this?

●  Weekly Worship

●  Bible Study

●  Prayer

Be near me, Lord Jesus! I ask thee to stay 

Close by me forever and love me, I pray.

Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care, 

And take us to heaven to live with Thee there.

Lord, help me to fight doubt and envy by keeping me close to You. Bless me with a hunger for Your Word of promise.  Amen.

Stay close to your Jesus today and always.

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Monday, September 12, 2022 - DEAD AND ALIVE

"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)

Day 255 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 7; Psalm 72; Romans 6:15-23)

DEAD AND ALIVE

Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.  (Romans 6:8-11 ESV)

“Wanted Dead or Alive,” read the old West poster. A reward would be given if a criminal was brought in “dead or alive.”

The Lord wants us both dead and alive. He wants us to be dead to sin and alive to God. He is calling us to repent of our sins and trust in Christ for life today and in eternity.

Since it is the Lord who grants us new life in Christ, the words of the hymn writer form the prayer we need to pray every day.

1 O God, forsake me not! 

Your gracious presence lend me; 

Lord, lead Your helpless child;

Your Holy Spirit send me

That I my course may run.

O be my light, my lot, 

My staff, my rock, my shield--

O God, forsake me not!

2 O God, forsake me not!

Take not Your Spirit from me;

Do not permit the might

Of sin to overcome me.

Increase my feeble faith,

Which You alone have wrought.

O be my strength and pow'r--

O God, forsake me not!

4 O God, forsake me not!

Lord, I am Yours forever.

O keep me strong in faith

That I may leave You never.

Grant me a blessed end

When my good fight is fought;

Help me in life and death--

O God, forsake me not! Amen. 

(“O God, forsake me not!” Lutheran Service Book, #731) 

 

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!

Sunday, September 11, 2022 - WE MUST NEVER FORGET

 

Day 254 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 6; Psalm 71; Romans 6:1-14)

WE MUST NEVER FORGET

“Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked... For you, O Lord, are my hope.”  (Psalm 71:4-5 ESV) 

Today is the twenty-first anniversary of September 11, 2001. Most of us, I am sure, remember exactly what we were doing when we first heard the news that our country was under attack. It was a day that filled us with fear, foreboding, sadness and anger.

That evening, like many other congregations around our country and the world, we gathered in church for a special service of the Word and prayer. On the way to church, I passed a gas station with a long line of cars. While our first reaction to the tragedies of 9/11 was to turn to God, others could only think of running out of gas.

What a striking contrast between God’s people and those who do not know Him. Our Bible verse for today is a prayer for help in time of fear, tragedy and uncertainty. “Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked.”  

In the past twenty-one years our world has not gotten safer. We continue to have to deal with terrorism, hatred, war, and all other forms of evil. But Christ is still our Redeemer and our hope. We can still trust in His steadfast love to deliver us. So, on this September 11th, let’s start the day right:

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) 

 

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), undergirds 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://files.lcms.org/file/preview/JyxxRfAT2Eg7JfDCXaPP99G4y4rJrZQO?

Then scroll down to 2022 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!