Saturday, July 22, 2023 - LOOK FORWARD TO JOY

 

"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 22, 2023 - Day 203 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 40; Psalm 21; Acts 24:1-27)

LOOK FORWARD TO JOY

Weeping may tarry for the night but joy comes with the morning. (Psalm 30:5b ESV)  

The Psalmist gives hope to anyone lost in life’s long night of weeping. Disappointment, disillusionment, despair, and disasters of life come to all of us at some time, resulting in weeping. But the morning also comes with its joy.

 “And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”  (Nehemiah 8:4b)

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” (Psalm 51:12)

“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)

Lord Jesus, my Savior, thank You for being the joy of my life. Help me always remember this, especially when I find myself focusing on life’s long night of weeping. 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!

Tuesday, August 1, 2023 - YOU BELONG TO 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

Tuesday, August 1, 2023 - Day 213  - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 49:1-6; Psalm 32; Ephesians 1:1-14)

YOU BELONG TO GOD

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.” (Ephesians 1:3-4 ESV) 

It is a great comfort to us poor, miserable sinners to know that God has chosen us to be His children. Because of the faith He has worked in our hearts, we believe that Jesus died and rose as our Savior from sin, and that He is the way to eternal life.

Our comfort is magnified by the fact that God chose us before the foundation/creation of the world. Just think of it, you were on God’s mind before time even began. WOW! That must mean that you are very special to God. And you are. You belong to the family of God! You belong to God!

What comfort this gives us as we face the daunting challenges of daily life. The Creator of the universe loves you so much that He sent His only Son, Jesus, to be your substitute and to make you His! 

Thank You, Heavenly Father, for choosing me to be Your child from before the creation of the world. May I live this day with the comfort of what You’ve done for me motivating my every thought and action. 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, July 31, 2023 - GOD’S PERFECT TIMING

"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, July 31, 2023 - Day 212  - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 48:21-47; Psalm 31; Acts 28:17-31)

GOD’S PERFECT TIMING

“My times are in your hand.” (Psalm 31:15 ESV)  

  Time, like an ever-rolling stream,

  Soon bears us all away;

  We fly forgotten as a dream

  Dies at the op'ning day.

  (“Our God, Our Help in Ages Past,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #733 stanza 5)

While the hymn stanza portrays a sober view of time, our verse for today clearly comforts us with the assurance that our time is in God’s almighty hand. The comfort comes from knowing that God’s timing is always perfect.

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5 ESV)  

When you take a careful look at your life, you will become aware of what I see in my life, namely, that 

● God puts us in the right place 

● at the right time 

● for His right purpose.

Almighty God, thank You for Your perfect timing in my life, starting with my Baptism. In Your perfect time, grant me the gift of heaven for Jesus’ sake. Until that time, may I use my time for You and Your purposes. 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, July 30, 2023 - LOOK FORWARD TO JOY

"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 30, 2023 - Day 211  - (Today’s Bible readings:  Jeremiah 48; Psalm 30; Acts 28:11-16)

LOOK FORWARD TO JOY

Weeping may tarry for the night but joy comes with the morning. (Psalm 30:5b ESV)  

The Psalmist gives hope to anyone lost in life’s long night of weeping. Disappointment, disillusionment, despair, and disasters of life come to all of us at some time, resulting in weeping. But the morning also comes with its joy.

 “And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”  (Nehemiah 8:4b)

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” (Psalm 51:12)

“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)

1. Jesus, Thy blood and righteousness

    My beauty are, my glorious dress;

    Midst flaming worlds, in these arrayed,

    With joy shall I lift up my head.

2. Bold shall I stand in that great day,

    Cleansed and redeemed, no debt to pay; 

    Fully absolved through these I am

    From sin and fear, from guilt and shame.

    (Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness, Lutheran Service Book #563 1&2)

Lord Jesus, my Savior, thank You for being the joy of my life. Help me always remember this, especially when I find myself focusing on life’s long night of weeping. In Jesus’ saving name. 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, July 29, 2023 - RELATIONSHIPS RESTORED

"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 29, 2023 - Day 210  - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 47; Psalm 29; Acts 28:1-10)

RELATIONSHIPS RESTORED

“And Herod and Pilate became friends with each other that very day, for before this they had been at enmity with each other.” (Luke 23:12 ESV)

Broken relationships have been mankind’s curse ever since the Fall. Adam and Eve’s relationship was broken because of sin. Cain and Able’s relationship was broken because of sin. And worst of all, mankind’s relationship with God was broken because of sin.

Herod and Pilate had a broken relationship with each other before Jesus came on the scene. Before their mutual “negative” contact with Jesus, they had been at enmity with each other. After meeting Jesus, they became friends. 

Tragically, they do not benefit spiritually from their contact with Jesus. And yet their experience is what Christianity is all about...restoring relationships between sinners and their Savior. Look at the first of Christ’s words from the cross recorded in Luke:

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:12 ESV)

God’s priceless and gracious gift of forgiveness is how we are reconciled and made right with God. And this is what guarantees our ultimate and eternal reconciliation with Him, as we see in this comforting and thrilling word from the cross:

“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43 ESV)

Jesus first post-resurrection words to His disciples are His words of reconciliation to all who repent and believe to day. Therefore, these are His words to you today too:

“Peace to you!” (Luke 24:36 ESV)

Thank You, dearest Lord Jesus, for reconciling me to almighty God by Your death on the cross. Thank You for Your gift of forgiveness, Your guarantee of heaven and Your proclamation of peace. Please keep my faith strong in You this day and always!  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, July 28, 2023 - WHOM SHALL I FEAR?

"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, July 28, 2023 - Day 209  - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 45; Psalm 27; Acts 27:13-38)

WHOM SHALL I FEAR?

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1 ESV) 

You check the latest news and discover that, once again, it is not good. There is so much going on that could make us fearful about the future. Where will terrorists strike next time? What will the doctor say? Will I loose my job or keep it? 

King David was not a stranger to fearful times. Yet he knew that the only answer for security and peace is the Lord. God shines the light of His love and His gift of salvation into the lives of His people. The Lord is our stronghold, our defense, and the One who drives all fear away.

1. Oh, for a faith that will not shrink 

Tho' pressed by many a foe;

That will not tremble on the brink 

Of poverty or woe;

2. That will not murmur nor complain 

Beneath the chast'ning rod,

That in the hour of grief or pain 

Can lean upon its God;

3. A faith that shines more bright and clear 

When tempests rage without;

That, when in danger, knows no fear, 

In darkness feels no doubt;

 4. That bears unmoved the world's dread frown 

Nor heeds its scornful smile;

That sin's wild ocean cannot drown 

Nor Satan's arts beguile;

5. A faith that keeps the narrow way 

Till life's last spark is fled

And with a pure and heavenly ray 

Lights up the dying bed.

6. Lord, give us such a faith as this; 

And then, whate'er may come,

We'll taste e'en now the hallowed bliss 

Of an eternal home.

(“Oh, for a Faith That Will Not Shrink,”   The Lutheran Hymnal #396)

Lord, thank You for showing us the way of salvation in Jesus, my Savior. While world and national events may be fearful, assure me of Your presence and Your peace. 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, July 27, 2023 - PATIENT PRAYING

 

"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, July 27, 2023 - Day 208  - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 44:20-30; Psalm 26; Acts 27:1-12 )

PATIENT PRAYING 

"Make me to know your ways, O Lord;

    teach me your paths.

Lead me in your truth and teach me,

    for you are the God of my salvation;

    for you I wait all the day long." (Psalm 25:4-5 ESV) 

"David prays, ‘For You I wait all the day long.' God promises to answer prayer, but we may be impatient or tempted to question His answers.  Even when our faithfulness fails, God is faithful.  He hears our prayers and truly acts for our good.  In faith, we patiently wait for Him."  (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 867) 

Lead me, Guide Me   LSB #721

https://youtu.be/hz5FnSi4Ba0

God of my salvation, open my eyes to Your path and Your truth. Please grant me the patience to wait for You and the faith to believe Your promises. In Jesus' name I pray. 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!

Saturday, July 15, 2023 - JESUS IS THE WAY

"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 15, 2023 - Day 196 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 35; Psalm 15; Acts 21:27-36)

JESUS IS THE WAY

"Neither can they prove to you what they now bring up against me. But this I confess to you, that according to the Way, which they call a sect, I worship the God of our fathers, believing everything laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets, having a hope in God, which these men themselves accept, that there will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust.”  (Acts 23:13-15 ESV)

 

Paul defends himself against his Jewish accusers. He states his loyalty to the Law and the Prophets while also proclaiming hope in Jesus. This former Pharisee is now following the Way. He is following Jesus.

Whom are you following?

You are the way; through You alone

Can we the Father find;

In You, O Christ, has God revealed

His heart and will and mind.

(Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #526)

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for being my way to God the Father. Thank You for being my way out of sin. Please help me to follow Your way. 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, July 26, 2023 - CONVINCED

"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, July 26, 2023 - Day 207  - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 44:1-19; Psalm 25; Acts 26:12-32)

CONVINCED

 

And as he was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words.  (Acts 26:24-25 ESV)  

Paul has just told Governor Festus and King Agrippa “that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.” To which Festus replies, “Paul, you are out of your mind.”

There are those today who still call us Christians “crazy.” We are not out of our minds. We know the truth of new life in Jesus for all who repent and believe. We are not crazy. We are convinced, just like Paul:

“But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me.” (2 Timothy 1:12 ESV)

1. Jesus and shall it ever be, 

    A mortal man ashamed of Thee!

    Ashamed of Thee, Whom angels praise,

    Whose glory shines thro' endless days? 

2. Ashamed of Jesus! sooner far,

    Let evening blush to own a star!

    He sheds the beams of light divine

    O'er this benighted soul of mine. 

3. Ashamed of Jesus? Just as soon

    Let midnight be ashamed of noon:

    Tis midnight in my soul till He,

    Bright Morning Star bids darkness flee. 

4. Ashamed of Jesus, That dear Friend

    On whom my hopes of heav'n depend? 

    No; when I blush, be this my shame,

    That I no more revere His Name. 

5. Ashamed of Jesus? Yes I may

    When I've no guilt to wash away,

    No tear to wipe, no good to crave,

    No fear to quell, no soul to save. 

6. Till then, nor is my boasting vain,

    Till then, I boast a Savior slain;

    And oh, may this my glory be

    That Christ is not ashamed of me! 

    (“Jesus! And Shall it Ever Be”   The Lutheran Hymnal #346)

Lord, please give me the courage to boldly proclaim the truth of the Gospel. May my life show that I am convinced of Your salvation for all who repent and believe. 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, July 25, 2023 - FAITH IN CHRIST - ACCEPT NO SUBSTITUTES

"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, July 25, 2023 - Day 206  - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 43; Psalm 24; Acts 26:1-11)

FAITH IN CHRIST - ACCEPT NO SUBSTITUTES

“The Lord could no longer bear your evil deeds and the abominations that you committed.” (Jeremiah 44:22 ESV)

“The Judean refugees who fled to Egypt refuse to give up their idolatry. They are convinced that worshiping false gods brings them peace and prosperity. God cannot tolerate such rebellion. As we see illustrated here, God calls sinners to repent and face His judgment. Sadly, mankind often seeks religions that promise prosperity or personal gratification. These are nothing more than self-centered substitutes for faith. True faith comes only through the faithful proclamation of God’s lasting treasure–eternal life through Jesus.” (Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 12708)

1. Jesus and shall it ever be, 

    A mortal man ashamed of Thee!

    Ashamed of Thee, Whom angels praise,

    Whose glory shines thro' endless days? 

2. Ashamed of Jesus! sooner far,

    Let evening blush to own a star!

    He sheds the beams of light divine

    O'er this benighted soul of mine. 

3. Ashamed of Jesus? Just as soon

    Let midnight be ashamed of noon:

   Tis midnight in my soul till He,

    Bright Morning Star bids darkness flee. 

4. Ashamed of Jesus, That dear Friend

    On whom my hopes of heav'n depend? 

    No; when I blush, be this my shame,

    That I no more revere His Name. 

5. Ashamed of Jesus? Yes I may

    When I've no guilt to wash away,

    No tear to wipe, no good to crave,

    No fear to quell, no soul to save. 

6. Till then, nor is my boasting vain

    Till then, I boast a Savior slain;

    And oh, may this my glory be

    That Christ is not ashamed of me! 

    (“Jesus! And Shall it Ever Be”   The Lutheran Hymnal #346)

Lord, help me resist the substitutes for Jesus that surround me every day. Keep my faith strong in Your promises today and always.  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, July 24, 2023 - THE LORD IS YOUR SHEPHERD

 

"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, July 24, 2023 - Day 205 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 42; Psalm 23; Acts 25:13-27)

THE LORD IS YOUR SHEPHERD

“The Lord is my shepherd...” (Psalm 23:1)

A good shepherd takes good care of his sheep. So does your Good Shepherd, Jesus.

● He gently leads you through each day.

● He blesses you with the peaceful green pastures and still waters of sins forgiven and a conscience free of guilt.

● He blesses you with reconciliation and a restored soul.

● He blesses you with godly confidence as you face the challenges of life, including death.

● He blesses you with the table of His body and blood even as you find yourself surrounded by your mortal enemies of sin, death and the devil.

● He blesses you with healing and with His overflowing provision.

● For the rest of your life He will continually bless you with His overwhelming goodness and mercy as He treats you as His precious little lamb.

● He death and resurrection have made it possible for your Good Shepherd to promise that you will dwell in His heavenly house forever.

How precious to know that because Jesus is your all-powerful Shepherd and Savior, you can sing these words with child-like faith and confidence:

1. I am Jesus' little lamb, Ever glad at heart I am;

For my Shepherd gently guides me, Knows my need and well provides me,

Loves me ev'ry day the same, Even calls me by my name. 

2. Day by day, at home, away, Jesus is my staff and stay. 

When I hunger, Jesus feeds me, Into pleasant pastures leads me;

When I thirst, He bids me go Where the quiet waters flow. 

3. Who so happy as I am, Even now the Shepherd's lamb?

And when my short life is ended, By His angel host attended, 

He shall fold me to His breast, There within His arms to rest.

(“I Am Jesus' Little Lamb,” Lutheran Service Book #740)

Dearest Lord Jesus, my loving Good Shepherd, please keep me close to You for the rest of my life. When I wonder, bring me back. Thank You for Your constant goodness and mercy. Grant me the peace that comes from firmly believing that I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. 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, July 23, 2023 - GOD HAS ANSWERED

 

"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 23, 2023 - Day 204 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 41; Psalm 22; Acts 25:1-12)

GOD HAS ANSWERED 

1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest... 16 For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet— 17 I can count all my bones— they stare and gloat over me; 18 they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. 19 But you, O Lord, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid... 22 I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you. (Psalm 22:1-22 ESV) 

“Facing great opposition, the psalmist initially feels that God has forsaken him and is ignoring his prayers. After remembering God’s faithfulness and deliverance, he believes God will deliver him, and commits himself to telling that message to others. We, too, may feel alone and forsaken by God. Today we deserve to be forsaken by God because of our sinfulness. But, as the psalmist foretells, God Himself came to be our Redeemer. While many human beings have shared these feelings, the psalm finds its greatest fulfillment in Jesus Christ... He was truly forsaken by His Father and died alone so that we could be reconciled to our God. We are never alone because our crucified, resurrected Savior is with us.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 865) 

Heavenly Father, thank You for answering my prayer for deliverance by sending Jesus to experience the forsakenness of hell in my stead. Help me to remember this at those times when I feel all alone. Grant me the comfort of knowing that You will never leave me nor forsake me . 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!

Friday, July 14, 2023 - THE REASON FOR...

"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, July 14, 2023 - Day 195 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 34; Psalm 14; Acts 21:17-26)

THE REASON FOR...

They have all turned aside; together they have become corrupt; there is none who does good, not even one. (Psalm 14:3  ESV)

What is the reason for Christmas, Good Friday, Easter and your baptism? These momentous events occurred because “no one does good, not even one.”  All of us need a Savior from our sins.

Jesus was born on Christmas, died on Good Friday and rose on Easter Sunday so that sinners like you and me could be saved. And then there is your baptism when your personal lack of goodness was completely washed away.

  Baptized into Your name most Holy, 

  O Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,

  I claim a place, though weak and lowly, 

  Among Your saints, Your chosen host.

  Buried with Christ and dead to sin, 

  Your Spirit now shall live within.

  (Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #590 stanza 1)

Heavenly Father, I admit that I am a sinner. Thank you for Christmas, Good Friday, Easter, and my baptism. 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!

Friday, July 21, 2023 - Good for Evil

 

"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, July 21, 2023 - Day 202 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 39:11-18; Psalm 20; Acts 23:23-35)

Good for Evil

He said to David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have repaid me good, whereas I have repaid you evil.”  (1 Samuel 24:17 ESV)

“David’s compassion for vulnerable Saul is motivated by respect for God and for His anointed.  It is met warmly by Saul, resulting in a temporary truce. Today, be ready to show compassion even to your enemies, as God in Christ has demonstrated His undeserved love to you.  

Gracious Lord, thank You for sending Your true Anointed One to bring mercy to me while I was your enemy.  Amen.”  (Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 476)

May the Lord lead you to repay evil with good 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!

Thursday, July 20, 2023 - ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ACCEPTABLE?

"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, July 20, 2023 - Day 201 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 32:16-35; Psalm 10; Acts 19:21-41)

ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ACCEPTABLE? 

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart

    be acceptable in your sight,

    O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

(Psalm 19:14 ESV) 

Can people see that you are a follower of Jesus by the words you choose to utter? Do you say things that warn, encourage and strengthen others, as well as glorify God? What do you think God thinks of your words? 

And here is a tougher question. Do the things you think about, and perhaps meditate on, glorify God? Remember, He knows everything. What do you think God thinks about what you think about? 

More questions... Would you want God to be at your side when you carry out your daily activities? Does everything you think, do and say match up with His commandments? 

Remember, God gave His commandments to protect you, to guide you, and to show you how much you need your Savior, Jesus. 

1. To You, omniscient Lord of all,

     With grief and shame I humbly call;

     I see my sins against You, Lord,

     The sins of thought, of deed and word.

     They press me sore; to You I flee:

     O God, be merciful to me!

2.  My Lord and God, to You I pray,

     Oh, cast me not in wrath away;

     Let Your good Spirit ne'er depart,

     But let Him draw to You my heart

     That truly penitent I be:

     O God, be merciful to me!

3.  O Jesus, let Your precious blood

     Be to my soul a cleansing flood.

     Turn not, O Lord, Your guest away,

     But grant that justified I may

     Go to my house, at peace to be:

     O God, be merciful to me!

("To You, Omniscient Lord of All," Lutheran Worship #234)

Lord Jesus, thank You for being my Rock and my Redeemer. May the Holy Spirit guide and direct my speaking, my thinking and my doing, so that I may glorify You and point others to You with every waking moment of my life. And please have mercy on me and forgive me when I fail You in any way. 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, July 19, 2023 - FACING LIFE WITH 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, July 19, 2023 - Day 200 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 38:7-28; Psalm 18:31-50; Acts 22:30-23:11)

FACING LIFE WITH THE LORD

“Yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation. God, the Lord, is my strength.” (Habakkuk 3:18-191 ESV)

The prophet Habakkuk began his book with a complaint and ends with confidence in the Lord. His joy comes from knowing that God promises eternal salvation. This joy provides you strength to face the challenges of today.

The Psalmist put it this way: “But I will sing of your strength; I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning. For you have been to me a fortress and a refuge in the day of my distress.” (Psalm 59:16)

May the Lord bless you with His strength as you face the storms of life!

“Yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation. God, the Lord, is my strength.” 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, July 18, 2023 - HUMBLE OR HAUGHTY?

 

"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, July 18, 2023 - Day 199 - (Today’s Bible readings: Jeremiah 37:11-38:6; Psalm 18:1-30; Acts 22:22-29)

HUMBLE OR HAUGHTY?

“For you save a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down.” (Psalm 18:27  ESV)

Humility is not the route many people want to follow on the road of life. Yet the Psalmist, and others, have mapped out humility as the way to go.

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” (James 4:10 ESV)

“You save a humble people, but your eyes are on the haughty to bring them down.” (2 Samuel 22:28 ESV)

“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV)

“The Lord lifts up the humble; he casts the wicked to the ground.” (Psalm 147:6 ESV)

Jesus: “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4 ESV)

Jesus: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12 ESV)

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,” (1 Peter 5:6 ESV)

Heavenly Father, remind me daily of Your graciousness to me in forgiving my sins for Jesus’ sake. May my response be a life of humble service to others in Your name. 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!