Sunday, July 2, 2023 - LIFE’S BIGGEST QUESTION

"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, July 2, 2023 - Day 183 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 27:12-22; Psalm 2; Acts 16:25-40)

LIFE’S BIGGEST QUESTION

Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:30-31  ESV)

In shock, the Philippian jailer realizes that Paul and Silas are men of God, so he asks them THE question.

 “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 

The answer is the one every person needs to hear.  “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” 

Believing in the Lord Jesus is the only way to be eternally set free from man’s enemies of sin, death and th devil.

  Delay not, delay not, O sinner, draw near.

  The waters of life are now flowing for you.

  No price is demanded, the Savior is here,

  Redemption is purchased, God’s promise is true. 

  Delay not, delay not, O sinner, to come;

  For mercy still lingers and calls you today.

  Its voice is not heard in the vale of the tomb;

  Its message, unheeded, will soon pass away. 

  Delay not, delay not! The Spirit of grace,

  Long grieved and resisted, may take his sad flight

  And leave you in darkness to finish your race,

  To sink in the gloom of eternity’s night. 

  Delay not, delay not! The hour is at hand;

  The earth will dissolve, and the heavens will fade.

  The dead, small and great, in the judgment must stand.

  What power, then, O sinner, can lend you its aid? 

  Delay not, delay not! Why longer abuse

  The love and compassion of Jesus, your God?

  A fountain is opened; how can you refuse

  To wash and be cleansed in his pardoning blood? 

  (“Delay Not, Delay Not, o Sinner, Draw Near,” Lutheran Worship #349)

Heavenly Father, please help me to answer life’ biggest question with faith in Jesus as my Savior.  Amen.

"See" you in church today!

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, July 1, 2023 - ARE YOU WALKING WITH 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

Saturday, July 1, 2023 - Day 182 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 27:1-11; Psalm 1; Acts 16:11-24)

ARE YOU WALKING WITH JESUS?

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; 2 but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. 3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. 4 The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. 5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; 6 for the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. (Psalm 1  ESV)

Those who walk with Jesus, that is, those who are trusting in Jesus for forgiveness, will, in God’s perfect time, reach the ultimate destination of heaven. Until we get there...

  Let us ever walk with Jesus, 

  Follow His example pure,

  Through the world that would deceive us  

  And to sin our spirits lure.

  Onward in His footsteps treading, 

  Pilgrims here, our home above,

  Full of faith and hope and love, 

  Let us do the Father's bidding.

  Faithful Lord, with me abide; 

  I shall follow where You guide.

  (Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #685 stanza 1)

Heavenly Father, may the Holy Spirit lead me in Your ways, so that I may ever walk with Jesus and reach the destination of heaven. In His saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 30, 2023 - HIS PEOPLE - OUR GOD

"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)

Friday, June 30, 2023 - Day 181 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 26:1-15; Psalm 149; Acts 15:22-35)

HIS PEOPLE - OUR GOD

“And I will give them one heart, and a new spirit I will put within them. . . And they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” (Ezekiel 11:19-20 ESV)

Ezekiel is given a vision of the just punishment God will render toward His unfaithful people. Yet God is planning to show mercy.  Do you remember David’s prayer?  

Hide your face from my sins, 

and blot out all my iniquities.

Create in me a clean heart, O God,

and renew a right spirit within me.

Cast me not away from your presence, 

and take not your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation, 

and uphold me with a willing spirit.

(Psalm 51:9-12 ESV)

In Christ Jesus this prayer was answered for David and for us. His death on the cross has blotted out all of our sins and iniquities. The result is a clean heart and a right spirit. The second half of David’s prayer is for a renewed relationship with God. This we find answered directly by God’s declaration: “And they shall be my people, and I will be their God.” 

Heavenly Father, thank You for answering my prayer for forgiveness and for a clean heart. I rejoice that, in spite of my sinful nature, I am still one of Your people and You are still my God. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 29, 2023 - TRUST THE LORD, NOT IN MAN

"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)

Thursday, June 29, 2023 - Day 180 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 25:15-38; Psalm 148; Acts 15:1-21)

TRUST THE LORD, NOT IN MAN . . 

“Put not your trust in princes... The LORD sets the prisoners free; the LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous. The LORD watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.” (Psalm 146:3-9 ESV) 

A 21st century way to look at the beginning of this text would be something like this: Don’t trust politicians, or anyone else. Instead we get to put our trust in the Lord. Just look at the list of reasons to trust Him: 

● The LORD sets the prisoners free; 

● The LORD opens the eyes of the blind. 

● The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; 

● The LORD loves the righteous. 

● The LORD watches over the sojourners; 

● The LORD upholds the widow and the fatherless. 

And how precisely does God do all of these things? 

“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:31 ESV) 

Lord, I trust You for heaven, even though I do not deserve it. Help me to also trust You for life on this earth as well. 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 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 28, 2023 - LOOK 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)

Wednesday, June 28, 2023 - Day 179 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 25:1-14; Psalm 147; Acts 14:19-28)

LOOK TO THE LORD

“The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season. You open your hand; you satisfy the desire of every living thing.” (Psalm 145:15-16 ESV) 

These words are often used as a meal prayer, and rightly so. As we prepare to eat, it is God-pleasing to remember the One who provides our food.

Do you remember where your daily blessings come from? He opens His hand, and all you need is yours and you are satisfied. Are you satisfied? The key is to remember that His greatest blessings are found at the baptismal font, the Communion table and in the Word! The hymn writer well expresses this satisfaction.

  All that I am and have, 

  Thy gifts so free,

  In joy, in grief, through life, 

  Dear Lord, for Thee!

  And when thy face I see, 

  My ransomed soul shall be

  Through all eternity 

  Something for Thee.

Heavenly Father, thank You for satisfying my needs. As I look to You, may I remember Your blessings of forgiveness and heaven. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 27, 2023 - TRIALS AND FAITHFULNESS

"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)

Tuesday, June 27, 2023 - Day 178 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 24; Psalm 146; Acts 14:8-18)

TRIALS AND FAITHFULNESS

But Jews came from Antioch and Iconium, and having persuaded the crowds, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. But when the disciples gathered about him, he rose up and entered the city, and on the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe. When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed. (Acts 14:19-23 ESV)

 

What would you do if someone had attempted to kill you? Would you go right back to the activity that led to the attempt? That is exactly what Paul did after he was stoned and left for dead. He continued sharing the Gospel message encouraging believers to remain faithful.

Most of us don’t have to make the kind of choice presented to Paul. However, “through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.” Those who know Jesus may know persecution as well. Above all, we know that Jesus is our only hope... 

“And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12 ESV)

Thank You, heavenly Father, for protecting Paul so that He could continue to serve You. Please watch over and protect my brothers and sisters in Christ who are facing extreme persecution. And please grant us the courage and trust in You so that all who bear your name can serve You faithfully. ln Your time, grant us all the gift of eternal life with You in heaven. 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 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 26, 2023 - THE LORD IS LISTENING

"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)

Monday, June 26, 2023 - Day 177 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 23:23-40; Psalm 145; Acts 13:48-14:7)

THE LORD IS LISTENING

“The Lord is near to all who call on him,

    to all who call on him in truth.”   (Psalm 145:18 ESV) 

They say that there are no atheists in foxholes. I would think that the same would be true with hurricanes and floods. Can you imagine the horror and paralyzing fear that overcomes those caught in blizzards? Can you imagine how may prayers for rescue are sent heavenward at times like these?

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

There are countless touching accounts of flood victims praying to be rescued who then get to pray prayers of thanksgiving to the Lord for their delivery from harm. In today’s verse, we’re reminded of one of the key components of effectual prayers.

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” 

Are you experiencing days of trouble? Are you calling on the Lord for deliverance? Are you doing so in truth, that is in faith?

The writer of this great “prayer hymn” certainly had this truth in mind when he penned these precious words:

1. What a Friend we have in Jesus, 

All our sins and griefs to bear!  

What a privilege to carry 

Ev’rything to God in prayer!

Oh, what peace we often forfeit, 

Oh, what needless pain we bear,

All because we do not carry 

Everything to God in prayer.

2. Have we trials and temptations?  

Is there trouble anywhere?

We should never be discouraged, 

Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Can we find a Friend so faithful 

Who will all our sorrows share?

Jesus knows our every weakness - 

Take it to the Lord in prayer.

3. Are we weak and heavy laden, 

Cumbered with a load of care?

Precious Savior, still our Refuge - 

Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?  

Take it to the Lord in prayer;

In His arms He'll take and shield thee, 

Thou wilt find a solace there.

(“What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” Lutheran Service Book #770)

Heavenly Father, thank You for answering prayers for rescue from so many caught have been caught in hurricanes, blizzards and storms. Please watch over and protect all who may be in peril of the other storms of life as well. 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 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 24, 2020 - PEOPLE WANT TO HEAR ABOUT 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)

Sunday, June 24, 2020 -  Day 176 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 23:1-22; Psalm 144; Acts 13:42-47)

PEOPLE WANT TO HEAR ABOUT JESUS

The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord. (Acts 13:44 ESV)

God sent Paul and Barnabas to Antioch, and great things happened. People then where like people today. They wanted to hear the good news that there is hope for sinners. The Gospel message of Jesus’ cross providing the gift of forgiveness was heavenly music to their ears. At the same time, the enemies of the Gospel were working to dissuade them. The same is happening today. We need to remember how the disciples responded to the option of leaving Jesus: 

“Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6 68 ESV)

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, CPH, #156)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the weekly opportunity I have to hear the good news of all that Jesus has done for my salvation. May the places where Your Word is taught in its truth and purity be filled with eager hearers. 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:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 24, 2023 - INVEST IN THE WORD

 

"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)

Saturday, June 24, 2023 - Day 175 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 22:11-30; Psalm 143; Acts 13:13-41)

INVEST IN THE WORD

The words of the Lord are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times. (Psalm 12:6  ESV)

TV ads encourage investors to put their money into gold or silver in order to protect themselves from market fluctuations. The Psalmist is encouraging sinners to invest in something much more reliable and valuable, God’s Word. The Gospel message, the heart of the Bible, provides deliverance from sin, death and the devil. The picture included here has a cross of silver which reminds us that the message of the cross (Jesus’ death in payment for your sins) is our most priceless gift from the Lord.

God's Word is our great heritage

And shall be ours forever;

To spread its light from age to age

Shall be our chief endeavor.

Through life it guides our way,

In death it is our stay.

Lord, grant, while worlds endure,

We keep its teachings pure

throughout all generations.

(“God's Word Is Our Great Heritage,” Lutheran Service Book #582)

Thank You, heavenly Father, for the priceless gift of Your Word. May I be well fed with its Gospel message this Sunday and everyday. 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 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 23, 2023 - DON’T FEAR THE POWERS OF DARKNESS

"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)

Friday, June 23, 2023 - Day 174 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 21:11-22:10; Psalm 142; Acts 13:1-12)

DON’T FEAR THE POWERS OF DARKNESS

4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus... 6 When they had gone through the whole island as far as Paphos, they came upon a certain magician, a Jewish false prophet named Bar-Jesus (Elymas). 7 He was with the proconsul, Sergius Paulus, a man of intelligence, who summoned Barnabas and Saul and sought to hear the word of God. 8 But ... the magician ... opposed them, seeking to turn the proconsul away from the faith. 9 But Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him 10 and said, “You son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, full of all deceit and villainy, will you not stop making crooked the straight paths of the Lord? 11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you will be blind and unable to see the sun for a time.” Immediately mist and darkness fell upon him, and he went about seeking people to lead him by the hand. 12 Then the proconsul believed, when he saw what had occurred, for he was astonished at the teaching of the Lord. (Acts 13:4-12 ESV)

Elymas was lost in a spiritual darkness of his own making prior to the Holy Spirit blinding him physically. He was a son of the devil, an enemy of all righteousness, full of all deceit and villainy, who would not stop making crooked the straight paths of the Lord, that is, not until God confronted him through the apostle Paul.

I wonder how many people from that time and place were afraid of Elymas, the sorcerer (King James Version)? Many today are also afraid of those whom they think have special power, special knowledge or special influence. The politically correct, the intellectual elite, vocal fringe groups, anti-Christian forces, and cross-less “Christians” are all lost in their own particular forms of spiritual darkness. We, however, need not fear these powers of darkness. John encourages us with these enlightening words:

In him (Jesus) was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. (John 1:4 ESV)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the assurance that the Light of the world, my Lord Jesus, is far brighter than the darkness of this world. Please let His light shine through me so that others may also be led to saving faith in Jesus. Amen

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 22, 2023 - WATCH YOUR MOUTH

"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)

Thursday, June 22, 2023 - Day 173 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 21:1-10; Psalm 141; Acts 12:18-25)

WATCH YOUR MOUTH

“Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth;

keep watch over the door of my lips!” (Psalm 141:3 ESV) 

The picture displays the universal tool (duct tape) being used to correct a universal problem.

Jesus identifies this problem in Matthew 15, “Hear and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.”

We have all heard someone taking the name of the Lord in vain. That is a blasphemous use of the mouth. But there are many other misuses. Lying, gossiping, cursing, misleading, griping, and the like are all misuses of God’s gift of speaking. David knew that he was prone to sin, just like the rest of us, so he cried out to God.

“Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips!” 

The Eighth Commandment 

You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. 

What does this mean? 

We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, 

     but defend him, 

     speak well of him, and 

     explain everything in the kindest possible way.

And if you can't say something nice about another person, cover your mouth with duct tape! (Figuratively speaking, of course! Or is it figuratively non-speaking?)

Heavenly Father, like David, I ask You to guard over my mouth. May all that I say bring glory to Your name and benefit those around me. 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 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 21, 2023 - I AM A CHRISTIAN

"I  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, June 21, 2023 - Day 172 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 20; Psalm 140; Acts 12:1-17)

I AM A CHRISTIAN

“And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.”  (Acts 11:26 ESV)

Who are you? What is your life about? Here are few of the myriad of answers to these questions: parent, child, female, male, spouse, sports fan, mechanic, gardener, gymnast, librarian, computer programmer, humorist, democrat, republican, hunter, vegetarian, expert, serious, happy, sad, determined, pessimist, and on and on and  on. When these words are applied to us, they define who we are.

The number of descriptive words that can be applied to us is huge. However, “Christian”  is the one name that every person desperately needs as part of what defines them. 

What does it mean to be a Christian? 

● A Christian believes in Jesus as his or her personal Savior from sin. 

● A Christian is a follower of Christ. 

● A Christian belongs to Jesus. 

● A Christian is looking forward to eternal life in heaven BECAUSE OF JESUS. 

One is a Christian not because of anything they have done, but because of their faith in what Jesus did for them on the cross of Calvary.

What do you think of the idea of wearing a name tag that declares that you are a Christian? While wearing a name tag, a cross, or a witness t-shirt can tell the world that you are a Christian, the best way to witness is to live a life that reflects Christ. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for making me a Christian on the day of my Baptism. Please help me to live a life that reflects my faith in Jesus, the One who has saved my soul and made my eternal future secure in heaven. In His saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 20, 2023 - FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE

"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)

Tuesday, June 20, 2023 - Day 171 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 19; Psalm 139; Acts 11:19-30)

FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY MADE

“For you formed my inward parts;

    you knitted me together in my mother's womb.

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Wonderful are your works;

    my soul knows it very well.

My frame was not hidden from you,

when I was being made in secret,

    intricately woven in the depths of the earth.

Your eyes saw my unformed substance;

in your book were written, every one of them,

    the days that were formed for me,

    when as yet there was none of them.”   (Psalm 139:13-16 ESV) 

Life, what a precious gift from God! 

EVERY life, what a precious gift from God!

How precious? So precious that God the Father, the One who created life, sent His only begotten Son to redeem all who repent of their sins and believe their Savior.

  God loves me dearly, Grants me salvation, 

  God loves me dearly, Loves even me.

  Therefore I’ll say again: God loves me dearly,  

  God loves me dearly, Loves even me.

  (“God Loves Me Dearly,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2009, #392)

Heavenly Father, thank You loving me and for giving me life. Please continue to bless me, body and soul. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 19, 2023 - GOD GROWS HIS CHURCH

 

"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)

Monday, June 19, 2023 - Day 170 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 18; Psalm 138; Acts 11:1-18)

GOD GROWS HIS CHURCH

19 Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews. 20 But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus. 21 And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose, 24 for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord. 25 So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians. (Acts 11:19-26 ESV)

The challenges facing the Early Church were many, including martyrdom. However, the Lord was working, and people were coming to saving faith in Jesus. The name “Christian” is applied to the followers of Jesus.

Barnabas encourages those who bare the name Christian “to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose.”

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of saving faith in Jesus, my Savior. Help me to remain faithful and to follow Your command to share Your love with others.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 18, 2023 - EVERYONE AND ANYONE

"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, June 18, 2023 - Day 169 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 17:19-27; Psalm 137; Acts 10:34-48)

EVERYONE AND ANYONE

“To him all the prophets bear witness that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” (Acts 10:43 ESV)

What GOOD NEWS! Jesus offers forgiveness to everyone and anyone who believes in Him. And what is that we are to believe? Simply this... Jesus died for all, and that includes you.

● No matter who you are, JESUS DIED FOR YOU!

● No matter what you have done, JESUS DIED FOR YOU!

● No matter what is going on in your life today, JESUS DIED FOR YOU!

● No matter how you feel about yourself, JESUS DIED FOR YOU!

● No matter what you may be afraid of today, JESUS DIED FOR YOU!

 

So, believe, repent and be at peace - Jesus died for you and paid for all of your sins!

1. Jesus refuge of the weary, 

Blest Redeemer whom we love,

Fountain in life’s desert dreary, 

Savior from the world above:

Often have Your eyes, offended, 

Gazed upon the sinner’s fall;

Yet upon the cross extended, 

You have borne the pain of all.

(Jesus, Refuge of the Weary, Lutheran Service Book #423 -1)

Father, thank You for the gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Make me a faithful witness of Your love.  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:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 17, 2023 - ARE YOU LISTENING 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)

Saturday, June 17, 2023 - Day 168 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 17:1-18; Psalm 136; Acts 10:24-33)

ARE YOU LISTENING TO THE LORD?

This is what the Lord says— your  Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.” (Isaiah 28:17 ESV) 

We foolish people think we know what is best for us. Certainly our “best list” would not include anything about human imperfection, short comings, or sin. However, the Lord does know what is best for us.

For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Luke 5:32)

This is good news for us. We have all blown it. No one measures up to God’s demand for perfection. We don’t even come close! So if we want to spend eternity in heaven, and not in hell, we need some serious help.

  Jesus sinners doth receive;

  Oh, may all this saying ponder

  Who in sin's delusions live

  And from God and heaven wander!

  Here is hope for all who grieve--

  Jesus sinners doth receive.

  (Jesus Sinners Doth Receive, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #609)

Lord Jesus, help to keep listening to You and Your soul-saving promise to forgive me when I repent of my sins. And please give me the opportunity to share this promise with someone today. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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, June 16, 2023 - WHAT IS CLEAN IS NOT IMPURE

"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

Friday, June 16, 2023 - Day 167 - (Today’s Bible readings:  Jeremiah 16:1-21; Psalm 135; Acts 10:9-23)

WHAT IS CLEAN IS NOT IMPURE

9 The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. 10 And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance 11 and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” 15 And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” .... 22 And they said, “Cornelius, a centurion, an upright and God-fearing man, who is well spoken of by the whole Jewish nation, was directed by a holy angel to send for you to come to his house and to hear what you have to say.” 23 So he invited them in to be his guests. (Acts 10:9-15, 22-23 ESV)

“Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.” (Verse 15 NIV)

This special vision given Peter has two messages. One is that Peter was no longer subject to the Old Testament dietary laws. However, as we see in verses 22-23, there is also a far more important message. Cornelius, a non-Jew, is now a candidate for the Gospel. How monumental this was for him and for us! JESUS DIED FOR THE SINS OF ALL PEOPLE, Jews and non-Jews (Gentiles). 

34 So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.” (vv. 34-35 ESV)

 

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for offering salvation to all who repent and believe. Help me to remember this when You call on me to witness to someone who is different than me. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:

https://files.lcms.org/file/preview/XxtyVfFAq1AnLS1gOHvLxvC7AGJ1D4w3?

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!