Friday, September 1, 2023 - WISHFUL THINKING

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

Friday, September 1, 2023 - Day 244  - (Today’s Bible readings: Esther 10; Psalm 62; 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12)

WISHFUL THINKING

“... when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might, when he comes on that day to be glorified in his saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed, because our testimony to you was believed.” (2 Thessalonians 1:7-10 ESV)

Wishful thinking is something most folks engage in on a regular basis. If your MLB team has done miserably for the first half of the season, it is wishful thinking to hope that they still have a chance of winning the World Series. Another example is the student who has not prepared for the big test. It is wishful thinking to hope to get an “A” on that test. While those cases are sad, they are not tragic.

However, there is one case of wishful thinking that is certainly tragic. “My god (yes “g”) wouldn’t send anyone to hell.” However the fact remains that God does condemn impenitent sinners to hell.  Flaming fire, relentless suffering, and eternal regret are the eternal facts for all and any who reject Christ Jesus as Savior and Lord.

Jesus makes it so very clear: 

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”   (John 14:6 ESV)

Peter reveals this same clear message:

“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)

  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)

Lord Jesus, help me to always believe in You as the way, the truth, and the life. And help me to share this truth in a winsome way with everyone. In Your saving name. Amen. 

Thursday, August 31, 2023 - HOPE-FILLED GRIEVING

"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, August 31, 2023 - Day 243  - (Today’s Bible readings: Esther 8; Psalm 60; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18)

HOPE-FILLED GRIEVING

“But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 ESV) 

What comfort grieving Christians find in these words of Paul! It is ok to cry when we lose a loved one because we still have hope: ”that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.” 

We miss our loved one, but we also have the peace and comfort that comes from knowing that they are in heaven:

“For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.”

1. Asleep in Jesus!  Blessed sleep,

From which none ever wakes to weep;

A calm and undisturbed repose,

Unbroken by the last of foes.

2. Asleep in Jesus!  Oh, how sweet

To be for such a slumber meet,

With holy confidence to sing

That death has lost his venomed sting!

3. Asleep in Jesus!  Peaceful rest,

Whose waking is supremely blest;

No fear, no woe, shall dim that hour

That manifests the Savior’s pow’r

4. Asleep in Jesus!  Oh, for me

May such a blissful refuge be!

Securely shall my ashes lie

And wait the summons from on high.

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

      youtube link: https://youtu.be/K5Hp0Tt0U0g

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your physical resurrection, and Your promise that all who trust in You for forgiveness will also rise again to eternal life. Amen.

Wednesday, August 30, 2023 - MAY THE LORD DIRECT YOU IN HIS 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)

Wednesday, August 30, 2023 - Day 242  - (Today’s Bible readings: Esther 7; Psalm 59; 1 Thessalonians 3:6 -13)

MAY THE LORD DIRECT YOU IN HIS WAY

“Now may ... the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all.” (1 Thessalonians 3:12 ESV) 

Jesus says that He is the way, the truth and the life. So, what is His way? His way is the way of the cross, the way of sacrificial love. Paul is encouraging us to follow the loving way of our Savior: “increase and abound in love for one another and for all.”

The hymn writer expanded on Christ’s way of love when he wrote:

Love in Christ is strong and living, 

Binding faithful hearts in one;

Love in Christ is true and giving, 

May His will in us be done.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #706 stanza 1) 

Lord Jesus, thank You for Your sacrificial love. Please bless me with greater love for You and for others. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Tuesday, August 29, 2023 - FOLLOW 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)

Tuesday, August 29, 2023 - Day 241  - (Today’s Bible readings: Esther 6; Psalm 58; 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5)

FOLLOW JESUS

“And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:38-39 ESV)

Everyone likes to win. Jesus makes it very clear that only those who follow Him are winners. And then He makes a most interesting statement:

“Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” 

Is it really true that we win by losing? YES, because when you have Christ, you have EVERYTHING–forgiveness of all your sins and the guarantee of eternal life!

Paul explained the importance of following Jesus this way:

“We are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37)

So, obey Jesus, follow Him, and win the crown of eternal life!

    Jesus, I my cross have taken,

    All to leave and follow Thee.

    Destitute, despised, forsaken,

    Thou from hence my All shalt be.

    Perish ev'ry fond ambition,

    All I've sought or hoped or known;

    Yet how rich is my condition!

    God and heav'n are still mine own.

    (“Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken,” The Lutheran Hymnal #423-1)

Lord Jesus, thank You for loving me so much that You died in my place on the cross. Please help me to follow You for the rest of my life. Amen.

Pastor David Paape 

Monday, August 27, 2023 - LORD HAVE MERCY

 

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

Monday, August 27, 2023 - Day 239  - (Today’s Bible readings: Esther 5; Psalm 57; 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16)

LORD HAVE MERCY

Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by. (Psalm 57:1 ESV) 

What is mercy? Mercy is God’s undeserved blessing showered upon repentant sinners. Peter described God’s mercy this way: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.”  (1 Peter 1:3-4 ESV)

Believers in Christ have been given what we do not deserve, hope. We deserve to be hopeless, to have nothing to look forward to other than eternal damnation in hell. But, God the Father has been merciful to us.

● He sent Jesus to take our place and suffer the punishment we deserve.

● Jesus paid off your debt of sin.

● And now you have that living hope.

● Eternal life in heaven is yours for sure!

● Until then, God promises to lead and direct your life.

5. I, a sinner, come to Thee

    With a penitent confession;

    Savior, mercy show to me

    Grant for all my sins remission.

    Let these words my soul relieve:

    Jesus sinners doth receive.

    (Jesus Sinners Doth Receive, The Lutheran Hymnal #324 - 5)

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy shown me in Jesus, my Savior. Please use me to share Your mercy 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, August 27, 2023 - WHAT DOES GOD EXPECT OF YOU?

"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, August 27, 2023 - Day 239  - (Today’s Bible readings: Esther 3; Psalm 55; Colossians 4:7-18)

WHAT DOES GOD EXPECT OF YOU?

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8)

What does God expect of those He has redeemed in the blood of His Son? As we look at Micah’s answer, we must remember that we are to read individual verses, chapters, and even books of the Bible in the context of the entire Bible. The clear message of Scripture is that we are saved by faith and not by our works, our sacrifice, nor our gifts to God.

Micah’s answer was for those who repent and believe the promise that God will send the Messiah, and they will be redeemed from sin, death and the devil. In fact, Micah is the one who pinpoints where the Messiah was to  be born:

“But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days." (Micah 5:2 ESV)

God expects those He has redeemed to act like it. We are to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God. In other words, He wants us to treat others fairly, to be merciful, and to remember all that God has done for us. The key word is humility. 

Heavenly Father, I humbly thank Your for sending Jesus to Bethlehem and then to the cross for me. Help me to live my life for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape 

Saturday, August 26, 2023 - FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS

"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, August 26, 2023 - Day 238  - (Today’s Bible readings: Esther 4; Psalm 56; 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10)

FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS

“And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14b ESV)

God puts His people in just the right place, at just the right time, for His right purposes. This certainly was true for Esther. God has placed her in the palace of King Ahasuerus at just the time when Haman was plotting to influence the king to destroy the Jews living among them. But God’s ultimate purpose, the coming promised Messiah, the Savior of the world who would come from Esther’s people, would not be thwarted by Haman’s twisted plan.

What is God’s plan for your life? Are you here for such a time as this? No, maybe your life will not be as influential to as many as was Esther’s life, but it is to those closest around you. God places you in the just the right place, at just the right time, for His right purpose today!

Thank You, heavenly Father, for Your impeccable timing in Esther’s life and in mine. Even though I may not see Your plan for my life right now, keep me aware that You know what You are doing with my life, and that You have me here for such a time as this. Above all, keep my faith strong in my Savior. In Jesus’ precious name. Amen.

"See" you in church tomorrow 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, August 25, 2023 - THE GOD OF THE SECOND CHANCE

"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, August 25, 2023 - Day 237  - (Today’s Bible readings: Esther 2; Psalm 54; Colossians 3:17-4:6)

THE GOD OF THE SECOND CHANCE

The word reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. And he issued a proclamation and published through Nineveh,... “Let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence that is in his hands. Who knows? God may turn and relent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we may not perish.”... When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it. (Jonah 31:6-10 ESV)

God gave the people of Ninevah second chance. From the king on down, they repented and God relented. They had their second chance.

Earlier in this book, Jonah was given a second chance. He had refused to go to Ninevah because he didn’t believe they deserved a second chance. God had Jonah tossed into the sea where a great fish swallowed him up. After three days, God had the fish toss Jonah back. Jonah got the message. He took his second chance and went to Ninevah.

In Christ, God has given you a second chance as well. Repent of your sins and believe that God has accepted Jesus’ death on the cross as payment for all of them.

1. Today Your mercy calls us

    To wash away our sin.

    However great our trespass,

    Whatever we have been,

    However long from mercy

    Our hearts have turned away,

    Your precious blood can wash us

    And make us clean today.

    (Today Your Mercy Calls Us, Lutheran Service Book #915)

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me a second chance by sending Jesus to be my Savior. Please use me to share Your gift of the second chance with others who need this gift as much a I do. 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!

Thursday, August 24, 2023 - KEEP LOOKING UP

"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, August 24, 2023 - Day 236  - (Today’s Bible readings: Esther 1; Psalm 53; Colossians 3:1-17)

KEEP LOOKING UP

“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:2 ESV) 

Paul is encouraging us to keep focused on Christ, to keep looking up. The writer to the Hebrews directs our focus upward as well: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 NIV)

And how does one go about “looking up?” Later in Colossians 3, Paul answers that question: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” (Colossians 3:16 ESV) 

1. My faith looks up to Thee, 

    Thou Lamb of Calvary, 

    Savior divine.

    Now hear me while I pray; 

    Take all my guilt away;

    Oh, let me from this day 

    Be wholly Thine!

 2. May Thy rich grace impart 

    Strength to my fainting heart, 

    My zeal inspire!

    As Thou has died for me, 

    Oh, may my love for Thee 

    Pure, warm and changeless be, 

    A living fire!

3. While life’s dark maze I tread 

    And griefs around me spread, 

    Be Thou my Guide.

    Bid darkness turn to day, 

    Wipe sorrows tears away,

    Nor let me ever stray 

    From Thee aside.

4. When ends life’s transient dream, 

    When death’s cold, sullen stream 

    Shall o’er me roll,

    Blest Savior, then, in love, 

    Fear and distrust remove;

    Oh, bear me safe above, 

    A ransomed soul!

   (My Faith Looks Up to Thee, LSB 702)

Heavenly Father, help me to set my mind on Jesus, my Savior. To this end, please grant me a hunger for Your Word and a desire to spend time reading the Bible. 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, August 23, 2023 - THE HEART OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

"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, August 23, 2023 - Day 235  - (Today’s Bible readings: Lamentations 5:1-22; Psalm 52; Colossians 2:16-23)

THE HEART OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

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 51:10-12 ESV) 

The heart of the Christian faith is the gift of complete forgiveness showered freely upon all who repent and see God’s mercy.

John writes of God’s merciful promise this way: 

“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  (1 John 1:8-9 ESV)

On Sunday morning, right after you confess your sins, you hear these soul-freeing words spoken on God’s behalf by your pastor:

Upon this your confession, I, as a called and ordained servant of the Word, announce the grace of God unto you, and in the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 

Thank You, Lord, for hearing my cry for mercy and for seeing my sincere confession. Your complete forgiveness of all of my sins is the greatest gift You could ever give. Please use me to share this treasure with others. 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 22, 2023 - DON’T BE MISLED

"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 22, 2023 - Day 234  - (Today’s Bible readings: Lamentations 4:1-22; Psalm 51; Colossians 2:6-15)

DON’T BE MISLED

“See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ.” (Colossians 2:8 ESV)

Like the Galatians, the Christians in Colossi were being misled. They were being told lies about the deity of Jesus, prompting Paul to remind them of the truth.

“He (Jesus) is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible. . .  And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. . .  He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he is preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.” (Colossians 1:15-20 ESV)

Do not be deceived. Jesus, Son of God and Son of Man, is your only hope!  He is the only One who died for your forgiveness. He is Your only way to heaven. And He is your only source of peace and strength today. Ask Him to renew your relationship with Him every day.

1. Renew me, O eternal Light,

    And let my heart and soul be bright,

    Illumined with the light of grace

    That issues from Your holy face.

2. Remove the pow'r of sin from me

    And cleanse all my impurity

    That I may have the strength and will

    Temptations of the flesh to still.

3. Create in me a new heart, Lord,

    That gladly I obey Your Word.

    Let what You will be my desire,

    And with new life my soul inspire.

4. Grant that I only You may love

    And seek those things which are above

    Till I behold You face to face,

    O Light eternal, through Your grace.

    (Renew Me, O Eternal Light, Lutheran Service Book #704)

Lord Jesus, protect from all that would deceive me and lead me away from You. Please renew my relationship with You and keep me close to You 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, August 21, 2023 - WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?

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

Monday, August 21, 2023 - Day 233  - (Today’s Bible readings: Lamentations 2:13-22; Psalm 47; Philippians 4:2-23)

WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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, August 20, 2023 - IF YOU NEED ANYTHING, JUST GIVE ME A CALL

 

"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, August 20, 2023 - Day 232  - (Today’s Bible readings: Lamentations 3:40-66; Psalm 50; Colossians 1:24-2:5)

IF YOU NEED ANYTHING, JUST GIVE ME A CALL

Have you ever heard these words before?  Perhaps you shared them yourself. They are meant to show our care and concern for another person with some sort of need.  What comforting words God has for us sinners who so often find ourselves in trouble: 

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

Just think of it.  When you get in a jam, God Himself is on call for you! You don’t have to go through an endless series of phone prompts. You don’t have to be frustrated by being put on hold. God simply says: When the going gets rough, just give me a call. 

  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. 

  (What A Friend We Have In Jesus, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #770 vs 2)

Lord, I have many earthly needs that I bring before You today. Please grant them according to Your will. But I have far greater needs. Please grant the needs of my soul (forgiveness, peace, and heaven) as I repent of my sin and seek Your strength for the day. 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, August 19, 2023 - GOD'S GREAT 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

Saturday, August 19, 2023 - Day 231  - (Today’s Bible readings: Lamentations 3:1-24; Psalm 48; Colossians 1:1-14)

GOD’S GREAT FAITHFULNESS

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)

In the middle of his lamentations over the catastrophic results of his people’s rebellion and unfaithfulness, Jeremiah proclaims God’s faithfulness. Remember his words when you face the catastrophes of 21st century life. In spite of your sin...

• God sent His only Son to the cross for your forgiveness.

• His mercy is new for you every morning.

• God’s love for you never ends.

  Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,

  Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

  Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,

  Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! REFRAIN 

  Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!

  Morning by morning new mercies I see;

  All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;

  Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

  (The Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, # 809) 

Lord, I thank You for Your faithfulness in pardoning my sin. Help me to see Your mercies every day, starting today. In Jesus’ name. 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, August 18, 2023 - CELEBRATE LIFE’S BLESSINGS

 

"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, August 18, 2023 - Day 230  - (Today’s Bible readings: Lamentations 2:13-22; Psalm 47; Philippians 4:2-23)

CELEBRATE LIFE’S BLESSINGS

Clap your hands, all peoples!

    Shout to God with loud songs of joy! (Psalm 47:1 ESV)

Today is a very special day for my family as we celebrate God’s goodness and blessings. Today Barb and I are celebrating our 50th wedding anniversary.

When Barb and I look back at our 50 years, we wonder where the time has gone, while at the same time we see God’s hand leading us throughout all of them.

What blessings do you see in your life? Do you recognize God’s goodness and blessings in your life? It may be difficult, especially if you are dealing with a loss, or perhaps a serious medical condition. But the truth is that “all things work together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) How do we respond to the blessings of the Lord?

Now thank we all our God,

With hearts and hands and voices,

Who wondrous things has done,

In whom His world rejoices;

Who from our mother's arms

Has blessed us on our way

With countless gifts of love,

And still is ours today.

(“Now Thank We All Our God,”  Lutheran Service Book #895)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessings You have showered upon all of Your people. Remind us everyday how blessed by the Lord we am. 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, August 17, 2023 - NOTHING OR EVERYTHING?

"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, August 17, 2023 - Day 229  - (Today’s Bible readings: Lamentations 2:1-12; Psalm 46; Philippians 3:12-4:1)

NOTHING OR EVERYTHING?

“But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” (Philippians 3:7-8 ESV) 

What’s greater than God,

worse than the devil,

poor people have it

rich people need it 

and if you eat it you will die?

The answer is “nothing.” This riddle is tied into the two verses from Philippians. Paul counts everything as loss, or NOTHING, because he had come to learn that WHEN YOU HAVE CHRIST YOU HAVE EVERYTHING.

What the world has to offer really is nothing compared to eternal life promised to all who believe in Christ! Therefore, we love our Lord Jesus with all our heart!

1. Lord, Thee I love with all my heart;

I pray Thee, ne’er from me depart,

With tender mercy cheer me.

Earth has no pleasure I would share.

Yea, heav’n itself were void and bare

If Thou, Lord, wert not near me.

And should my heart for sorrow break,

My trust in Thee can nothing shake.

Thou art the portion I have sought;

Thy precious blood my soul has bought.

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

Forsake me not! I trust Thy Word.

2. Yea, Lord, ’twas Thy rich bounty gave

My body, soul, and all I have

In this poor life of labor.

Lord, grant that I in ev’ry place

May glorify Thy lavish grace

And help and serve my neighbor.

Let no false doctrine me beguile;

Let Satan not my soul defile.

Give strength and patience unto me

To bear my cross and follow Thee.

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

In death Thy comfort still afford.

3. Lord, let at last Thine angels come,

To Abr’ham’s bosom bear me home,

That I may die unfearing;

And in its narrow chamber keep

My body safe in peaceful sleep

Until Thy reappearing.

And then from death awaken me,

That these mine eyes with joy may see,

O Son of God, Thy glorious face,

My Savior and my fount of grace.

Lord Jesus Christ, my prayer attend, my prayer attend,

And I will praise Thee without end.

    (Lord, Thee I Love with All My Heart – Lutheran Service Book 708)

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving me everything in Christ Jesus. Please keep me from being tricked into relying on the nothingness of this world instead of 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!

Wednesday, August 16, 2023 - I’M NUMBER THREE

"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, August 16, 2023 - Day 228  - (Today’s Bible readings: Lamentations 1:1-22; Psalm 45; Philippians 3:1-11)

I’M NUMBER THREE (God, others, me)

“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interest of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4 ESV) 

“It’s hard to be humble when you’re perfect in every way.” So says Mac Davis. Not so says St. Paul. Instead a lack of conceit and the presence of humility are to be the mark of a Christian. 

St. Peter agrees: “Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” (1 Peter 5:5 ESV)

It sounds like God is pretty serious about His people living humble lives! 

“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:5-8 ESV) 

It is not that hard to be humble when you remember that Jesus died for that “poor, miserable sinner” we each see in the mirror every morning! 

Lord Jesus, thank You for humbling Yourself by going to the cross for me. May I humbly spend the rest of my life living for You and putting You and others ahead of myself. 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!