"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
Sunday, April 23, 2023 - Day 113 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2 Chronicles 30:1-27; Psalm 104; Luke 15:1-10)
OUR COMPASSIONATE FATHER
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him.” (Luke 15:20 ESV)
The prodigal son had talked his father into giving him his share of the inheritance early so that he could go out on his own. He had squandered his wealth and found himself in dire straights. This reminds us of how we have treated our heavenly Father.
The rest of the story reveals how our heavenly Father has mercifully responded to us. “While he was still a long way off....” The father had been looking for his long-lost son, watching every day, and hoping he would return. When he did return, we get this explanation for his great joy. “It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.” (Luke 15:32 ESV)
Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind but now I see!
Heavenly Father, thank You seeking me out and graciously restoring me as Your child through the innocent suffering and death of Jesus. Yes, thank You for Your amazing grace. Amen.
“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
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!
No comments:
Post a Comment