Saturday, April 27, 2024 - JUDGE NOT

"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, April 27, 2024 - Day 118 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Samuel 19,20; Luke 21:20-38 )

JUDGE NOT

“Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”  (Luke 6:37-38 ESV)

Jesus is teaching us to be...

● nonjudgmental

● forgiving and 

● giving.

He then promises that we will receive the same in return. Of course, the ultimate motivation for following these directions is to simply to...

● obey

● serve and 

● glorify God.

Jesus clearly wants us to know that when we live for Him by living for others, we can’t lose. He put it this way in Matthew’s Gospel:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:335)

Lord Jesus, help me to be nonjudgmental, forgiving and giving. May my motivation be Your dying love for me. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

 

Friday, April 26, 2024 - GRIEF AND FORGIVENESS

 

"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, April 26, 2024 - Day 117 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Samuel 17,18; Luke 21:1-19

 

GRIEF AND FORGIVENESS

“Would I had died instead of you, O Absalom, my son, my son.” (2 Samuel 18:23 ESV)

Absalom, David’s son, leads a revolt against his father.  He is killed and David is filled with grief.  

The consequences of David’s earlier sins continue to plague him. Family discord has led to rebellion and the loss of another son.  While we can understand David’s grief for his son, what we are amazed at is David’s desire to forgive all the rest who followed Absalom.

How do you respond to those who have it in for you? Better yet, how does Jesus respond to those who have it In for Him? Listen to Jesus:

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34 ESV)

Lord God, heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy and grace that cover all of the betrayal and ugliness of life.  Keep me close to You through faith in my Savior, Jesus. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Thursday, April 25, 2024 - WATCH YOURSELF!

"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, April 25, 2024 - Day 116 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Samuel 17,18; Luke 21:1-19)

 

WATCH YOURSELF!  

“But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth. But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:34-36 ESV)

It is so very easy to get sidetracked, to lose oneself in the distractions and cares of every day life. The Lord tells to pray for alertness and spiritual strength for the days that are to come. The hymn writer put it this way:

"Wake, awake, for night is flying,"

The watchmen on the heights are crying;

"Awake, Jerusalem, arise!"

Midnight hears the welcome voices

And at the thrilling cry rejoices;

"Oh, where are ye, ye virgins wise?

The Bridegroom comes, awake!

Your lamps with gladness take!

Allelujah!

With bridal care

Yourselves prepare

To meet the Bridegroom, who is near.".

(Lutheran Service Book, #516 stanza 1)

Lord Jesus, please keep me spiritually alert and ready for Your return. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Wednesday, April 24, 2024 - GOVERNMENT AND 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)

Wednesday, April 24, 2024 - Day 115 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Samuel 13,14; Luke 20:1-26)

GOVERNMENT AND GOD

“Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?” But he perceived their craftiness, and said to them, “Show me a denarius. Whose likeness and inscription does it have?” They said, “Caesar's.” He said to them, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” (Luke 20:22-25 ESV)

The scribes and chief priests attempted to trick Jesus into saying something that would get him into big trouble with the Roman authorities. They hoped Jesus would say that paying “taxes” to an occupying army was wrong. Instead, Jesus gave them, and us, clear insight into the believer’s relationship with government. “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” His answer stymied them in their treacherous attempt. 

His words remind us what Peter said. But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29)

We obey man-made rules as long as they do not disagree with the Word of God. Where there is conflict, we must follow what God says instead.

Heavenly Father, please help me to be a good citizen and a faithful Christian.  To this end, make me ever thankful for my country and my God.  In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Tuesday, April 23, 2024 - I HAVE SINNED AGAINST 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)

Tuesday, April 23, 2024 - Day 114 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Samuel 10-12; Luke 19:29-48)

 

I HAVE SINNED AGAINST THE LORD

Nathan said to David, “You are the man!”

David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.”   (2 Samuel 12:7&13  ESV)

David was the King of Israel, and he was a sinner. In today’s Old Testament reading, David is confronted with his sin. He confesses it to Nathan. And Nathan forgives him. There will still be consequences to his sin, yet he would continue to celebrate the gifts of reconciliation and forgiveness for the rest of his life. 

Even though none of us are kings of queens, yet we can have the same blessings David did. We can confess our sins knowing that God will graciously forgive us for Jesus’ sake.

Psalm 51 we read of David’s heartfelt sorrow for his sin and he call to God for mercy and forgiveness.

1 Have mercy on me, O God,

    according to your steadfast love;

according to your abundant mercy

    blot out my transgressions.

2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity,

    and cleanse me from my sin!

3 For I know my transgressions,

    and my sin is ever before me.

4 Against you, you only, have I sinned

    and done what is evil in your sight,

so that you may be justified in your words

    and blameless in your judgment.

5 Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity,

    and in sin did my mother conceive me.

6 Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being,

    and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean;

    wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

8 Let me hear joy and gladness;

    let the bones that you have broken rejoice.

9 Hide your face from my sins,

    and blot out all my iniquities.

10 Create in me a clean heart, O God,

    and renew a right spirit within me.

11 Cast me not away from your presence,

    and take not your Holy Spirit from me.

12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation,

    and uphold me with a willing spirit.

May the gift of God’s forgiveness and reconciliation fill you joy this day as you live every minute for Him. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Monday, April 22, 2024 - LITTLE MAN, BIG 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)

Monday, April 22, 2024 - Day 113 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Samuel 7-9; Luke 19:1-28)

 

LITTLE MAN, BIG FAITH 

Zacchaeus... was a chief tax collector and was rich. And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.”... Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”  (Luke 19:2-10 ESV)

The religious leaders thought little of Zacchaeus, and they weren’t just talking about his height. They saw him as a lost soul, someone to be shunned. Jesus also saw Zacchaeus as a sinner, but not as someone to be shunned.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” 

This is good news for us, for we also come up short when it comes to living the perfect life God requires of all. The good news for Zacchaeus was that Jesus invited him into His presence. And that is really big!

Lord Jesus, thank You for also inviting me into Your presence. Please grant me a hunger for Your Word and for Your Supper that drives me to Your house each Sunday. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Sunday, April 21, 2024 - WHAT ARE THE ODDS?

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

Sunday, April 21, 2024 - Day 112 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Samuel 4-6; Luke 18:18-43)

WHAT ARE THE ODDS? 

And taking the twelve, he said to them, “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished. For he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. And after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.” (Luke 18:31-33 ESV) 

“Everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished...”

One of the biggest problems Bible doubters have is the incredible odds against all of the Old Testament being fulfilled by one person. Yet, that is just what the account of the life of Christ reveals.

Peter Stoner, in Science Speaks (Chicago: Moody Press, 1963), determined the probability of one man fulfilling eight of the prophecies of the Old Testament for the Messiah to be 1 in 10 to the 17th power. Imagine taking 100,000,000,000,000,000 silver dollars and covering the state of Texas. That many coins would be two feet deep. Now mark one, stir the whole mass thoroughly, blindfold a person, and ask that person to pick the marked one in one try. Those are the exact same odds of anyone fulfilling eight of the Messianic prophecies by chance alone.

Peter Stoner then goes on to consider the possibility of any one person fulfilling 48 of the prophecies by chance. Here the odds jump to 1 in 10 to the 157th power (1 billion X 12). That number would look like this: 

1 in 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000, 000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000,000. 

What is even more amazing is the reason that Jesus endured this: “For he will be delivered over to the Gentiles and will be mocked and shamefully treated and spit upon. And after flogging him, they will kill him, and on the third day he will rise.” 

Jesus died and rose for sinners like you and me!

Thank You, my Lord Jesus, for fulfilling every single Old Testament prophecy so that I can be forgiven and look forward to eternity with You. Please use me to share Your amazing story with others. Amen. 

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - 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)

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - Day 111 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Samuel 1-3; Luke 18:1-17)

MERCY! 

He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt:  “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.’ But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me, a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”  (Luke 18:9-14 ESV)

The point of the parable is clear. God calls us to honestly admit our sinfulness and seek His mercy. While this is not the way we proud and self-centered “Pharisees” want to go through life, it is the only way to be saved. When we repent of our sins and seek God’s mercy, for the sake of Jesus, we are forgiven and restored.

There is no wiggle room here. Humble yourself, repent, and seek God’s mercy!

May God bestow on us His grace and favor

To please Him with our behavior

And live as brethren here in love and union

Nor repent this blest Communion!

O Lord, have mercy!

Let not Thy good Spirit forsake us;

Grant that heav'nly-minded He make us;

Give Thy Church, Lord, to see

Days of peace and unity:

O Lord, have mercy!

(“O Lord, We Praise Thee” LSB #617 - 3)

God, be merciful to me, a sinner. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

“See” you in church tomorrow or tonight!

Pastor David Paape

Friday, April 19, 2024 - LOSERS KEEPERS

 

"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, April 19, 2024 - Day 110 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 30,31; Luke 17:20-37)

LOSERS KEEPERS 

“Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it.” (Luke 17:33 ESV)

“Finders keepers, losers weepers,” is the selfish response when someone finds something lost by someone else. For followers of Jesus, it is just the opposite. Those who try to find (preserve) their lives are losers, while those who lose their lives for Jesus, are winners.

The key is putting Jesus first by

   ● trusting Him,

   ● repenting of our sins, and

   ● serving Him as we help others.

When we live for ourselves, ignoring God, we risk losing everything. When we live for God, we win everything.

Those who die without Christ, are eternal losers. Those who die trusting in Christ for forgiveness are eternal winners

   1. I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus, Trusting only Thee;

Trusting Thee for full salvation, Great and free.

   2. I am trusting Thee for pardon; At Thy feet I bow,

For Thy grace and tender mercy Trusting now.

   3. I am trusting Thee for cleansing In the crimson flood;

Trusting Thee to make me holy By Thy blood.

   4. I am trusting Thee to guide me; Thou alone shalt lead,

Ev'ry day and hour supplying All my need.

   5. I am trusting Thee for power; Thine can never fail.

Words which Thou Thyself shalt give me Must prevail.

   6. I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus, Never let me fall.

I am trusting Thee forever And for all.

(“I Am Trusting Thee, Lord Jesus” LSB #729)

Heavenly Father, thank You for making me a winner by giving me saving faith in Christ Jesus. Please use me today to share my victory with others. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Thursday, April 18, 2024 - GOD CHOSE 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)

Thursday, April 18, 2024 - Day 109 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 27-29; Luke 17:1-19)

GOD CHOSE YOU

“See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” (1 John 3:1 ESV)

God loves us so much that He has chosen to call us His children. Isn’t that wonderful? Really! It is wonderful. The wonder is that He chooses you and me to be His. We certainly do not deserve it, do we? 

Every day we blow it. We refuse to obey His command to be perfect. We choose to sin. We choose to disobey. And what does He do? He still chooses us!

God has done it all for us. We can’t contribute anything to our salvation. He sent His one and only Son to die in payment for our sin-filled lives. He adopted us into His family through our baptisms. He feeds our souls with His Word and with the body and blood of Jesus. He forgives our sins and promises us a room in His eternal house.

Thank You, Heavenly Father, for choosing me. Thank You for saving me. Thank You for making me Your child. Please open my eyes for opportunities today to let someone else know that You want to do the same for them. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Wednesday, April 17, 2024 - THE BIG CHANGE

"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, April 17, 2024 - Day 108 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 25,26; Luke 16:19-31)

THE BIG CHANGE

And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, “He is the Son of God.” And all who heard him were amazed and said, “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?” But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.  (Acts 9:20-22 ESV)

 After the blinding light and the voice of Jesus calling out to Saul, God worked a miraculous change in him. Those who knew him, were confused: “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?”

Saul was known as a fierce persecutor of Jesus’ followers. But God changed him. And now Saul is proclaiming the good news: “He (Jesus) is the Son of God.”

What God did for Saul, He wants to do for others. While He reached Saul directly, today He uses us, His followers, to share the good news of the forgiveness of sins through faith in Jesus.

Lord Jesus, You have changed me too. Now please use me to share Your good news with others so they can also become Your people! In Your saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Tuesday, April 16, 2024 - SPUR ON ONE ANOTHER IN LOVE

 

"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, April 16, 2024 - Day 107 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 22-24; Luke 16:1-18)

SPUR ON ONE ANOTHER IN LOVE

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good works.”   (Hebrews 10:24 NIV)

We have celebrated the resurrection of Jesus and the fact that God has made us His own. Now in Hebrews 10 our attention is drawn to encouraging fellow Christians in responding to all that Christ has done for us. 

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good works.” :

• We’re all in this together. We need each another.

• Be kind, not rude.

• Be aware of one another’s hot buttons and don’t push them.

• Chose not to get upset with ideas that differ from yours.

• Build up one another often.

• Be open to suggestions. Realize that positive criticism can really help you grow.

• Look for the good in living for God with those around you. 

• Have fun serving together.

• Don’t take yourself too seriously.

• Do take your relationship with others, especially fellow Christians, seriously.

• Spur one another on in serving the Lord together.

Lord Jesus, thank You for dying for me so that I can live with You forever. Please use me to spur other Christians around me to good works for You. I especially ask You to help me to not take myself too seriously by putting the feelings of others ahead of my own. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Monday, April 15, 2024 - WHEN HE CAME TO HIMSELF...

"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, April 15, 2024 - Day 106 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 19-21; Luke 15:11-32)

WHEN HE CAME TO HIMSELF...

“But when he came to himself, he said, ‘How many of my father's hired servants have more than enough bread, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ And he arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to celebrate. (Luke 15:17-24 ESV)

When the prodigal son blew his early inheritance and found himself in dire circumstances, he came to himself. He was ready to confess his sin and throw himself on his father’s mercy and ask to be taken back as a servant. The father did respond mercifully. He showered his son with a robe, a ring, shoes and a party. His rationale was simple: “For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found."

When we blow it and disobey God, we find ourselves in dire circumstances. It good that we come to our senses too. We need to confess our sins and throw ourselves on our heavenly Father’s mercy. And how does He respond? He forgives us, clothes us in the righteousness of Jesus and promises us a place in heaven.

Thank You, heavenly Father, for forgiving my sins and accepting me back. Please keep me  close to You through faith in Jesus, my Savior. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Sunday, April 14, 2024 - LIONS AND DOGS AND BEARS...

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

Sunday, April 14, 2024 - Day 105 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 17,18; Luke 15:1-10)

LIONS AND DOGS AND BEARS...

But David said to Saul... “Your servant has struck down both lions and bears... The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.”  Then he took his staff in his hand and chose five smooth stones from the brook and put them in his shepherd's pouch. His sling was in his hand, and he approached the Philistine. And the Philistine said to David, “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?” Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you down and cut off your head... For the battle is the Lord's, and he will give you into our hand.” So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. There was no sword in the hand of David. (1 Samuel 17:34-50 ESV)

“Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!” Those words spoken by Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, revealed her fear of walking in harms way. “Lions and dogs and bears,” terms found in our lesson for today, do not reveal fear. Instead they reveal the God-inspired confidence of a young shepherd boy and the self-inspired confidence of a giant. 

David’s lack of fear was well founded because he knew that the battle (was) the Lord's. Goliath’s lack of fear was based on his confidence in his own strength. Faithful David won. Boastful Goliath lost. Our lesson is clear. If you want to be a winner, trust in the Lord!

Thank You, heavenly Father, for driving away all fear for those whom You have chosen by sending Jesus to the cross to defeat sin, death and the devil. Yes, thank You for His sacrificial love that casts out all fear. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Saturday, April 13, 2024 - GOD’S SURPRISING CHOICE

"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, April 13, 2024 - Day 104 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 15,16; Luke 14:25-35)

GOD’S SURPRISING CHOICE

And Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel. And Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen these.” Then Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and get him, for we will not sit down till he comes here.” And he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome. And the Lord said, “Arise, anoint him, for this is he.” Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward. (1 Samuel 16:10-13 ESV)

Of Jesse’s eight sons, David was the youngest and the least likely candidate for king. But God had a different idea, leading to His surprising choice. That is how God does things.

On Palm Sunday we saw Jesus enter Jerusalem humbly riding on a donkey. You would think that the King of kings would have ridden a majestic white steed.

But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God.  (1 Corinthians 1:27-29 ESV)

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your surprising choices – David, Jesus and me. Thank You for choosing a sinner like me to be one of Your children. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Friday, April 12, 2024 - CHIEF OF SINNERS

"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, April 12, 2024 - Day 103 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 13,14; Luke 14:1-24)

CHIEF OF SINNERS

“Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven–for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” (Luke 7:47  ESV)

Jesus teaches that even notorious sinners can be forgiven and restored; indeed, they sometimes become all the more devoted to God for having received greater deliverance. His teaching challenges us to consider: 

●  Do we act like the begrudging Pharisee or the grateful penitent?

●  Do we trust that God can truly change people’s lives? 

By God’s spirit, we grow daily in our appreciation of the fact that “where sin increased, grace abounded all the more’ (Romans 5:20).”   

“Your faith has saved you, go in peace.” (Luke 7:50  ESV)

Those are Christ’s words to you and to all who are willing to admit their desperate need for forgiveness.

   Chief of sinners though I be,  

   Jesus shed His blood for me;

   Died that I might live on high, 

   Lives that I might never die.

   As the branch is to the vine, 

   I am His and He is mine.

   (Chief of Sinners Though I Be, Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #611)

Heavenly Father, I thank You for Your priceless gift of forgiveness. Jesus, thank You for shedding You precious blood for this poor miserable sinner. May I be Yours forever. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Thursday, April 11, 2024 - THE ONLY DOOR

"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, April 11, 2024 - Day 102 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 10-12; Luke 13:22-35)

THE ONLY DOOR

And someone said to him, “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” And he said to them, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.” (Luke13: 23-24 ESV)

Jesus is saying that only those who enter through the narrow door will get into heaven. What is He talking about? Listen to how His answers to that question:

So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep... I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”  (John 10:7-11 ESV)

On our recent vacation in Hawaii, my wife and I were surprised with the extremely strong Mormon presence on Oahu. On several evening walks I came across Jehovah Witnesses on the street offering free bibles (filled with false and misleading interpretations). While both groups are made up of good and moral people, they are both following false leaders. Why? Because both relatively new groups deny that Jesus is the only door to forgiveness and heaven. They may pray in Jesus’ name and may even say that Jesus is a Son of God, but they do not believe what we Christians believe... that Jesus is THE Son of God!

"This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone.  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 4:11-12 ESV)

"Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."(Philippians 2:9-11)

In the game show, Let’s Make A Deal, the contestants are asked to choose between three doors with a chance to win a big prize. They can win big or go home with next to nothing. When it comes to your soul, the right door is made know to you only in the person of Jesus, your Savior and your Lord. He is the only One you can truly trust! 

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)

The only ones who enter through the narrow door are those who confess their sins and trust in Christ as Savior and Lord.

 

Lord Jesus, thank You for being the narrow door and for accepting sinners like me. Please keep my faith in You strong so that I may continue to be an heir of eternity with You in heaven! Until then, please use me to help other sinners know that You are their door to heaven too. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Wednesday, April 10, 2024 - THE KINGDOM OF GOD GROWS

"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, April 10, 2024 - Day 101 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 7-9; Luke 13:1-21 )

THE KINGDOM OF GOD GROWS

He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his garden, and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.” (Luke 13:18-19 ESV)

Jesus reminds us that the kingdom of God will grow. From the seed of God’s Word, the souls of sinners are filled with faith and the gifts of forgiveness and heaven. There is great comfort in the fact that God the Holy Spirit grows the Church and that we don’t. We simply get to share Jesus and His love with fellow sinners.

Looking back over the 44 years that I was privileged to be a full-time pastor, one of the joys has been to witness the Lord growing His Church. He has done this through the clear preaching God’s Word - Law and Gospel, and through the friendliness and receptivity of God’s people as they share the love of Jesus with new people. Yes, it cannot be overstated how important the friendliness of a congregation (or lack thereof) influences first time visitors. My prayer for all churches, as well for the churches I had the privilege of serving, St. Paul’s - Brown Deer, Immanuel - Sheboygan, Zion - Menomonee Falls, and St. Paul - Woodland, Indiana is that they will continue to welcome visitors with the open arms of genuine Christian kindness and friendship. May the Lord grant this in all Christ-centered churches.

   1. The vision of a dying world is vast before our eyes; 

We feel the heart-beat of its need, we hear its feeble cries:

Lord Jesus Christ, revive Thy church in this, her crucial hour!  

Lord Jesus Christ, awake Thy church with Spirit-given power.

   2. The savage hugs his god of stone and fears descent of night; 

The city dweller cringes lone amid the garish light:

Lord Jesus Christ, arouse Thy church to see their mute distress! 

Lord Jesus Christ, equip Thy church with love and tenderness.

   3. Today, as understanding's bounds are stretched on every hand, 

O clothe Thy Word in bright, new sounds, and speed it o'er the land;

Lord Jesus Christ, empower us to preach by every means!

Lord Jesus Christ, embolden us in near and distant scenes.

   4. The warning bell of judgement tolls, above us looms the cross;

Around are ever-dying souls - How great, how great the loss!

O Lord, constrain and move Thy church, the glad news to impart!

And Lord, as Thou dost stir Thy church, begin within my heart.

(Tune: Macedonia)

 

Heavenly Father, thank You for growing Your kingdom in the hearts of those to whom You give faith. Thank You for including me in Your kingdom and in the exciting activity of sharing Your kingdom with others. Please help our churches to be welcoming places to all who gather to worship You. In Jesus’ saving name.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Tuesday, April 9, 2024 - SIGNS OF THE TIMES

"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, April 9, 2024 - Day 100 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 4-6 Luke 12:35-59)

SIGNS OF THE TIMES

He also said to the crowds, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, ‘A shower is coming.’ And so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, ‘There will be scorching heat,’ and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time? (Luke 12:54-56 ESV)

“Jesus condemns the unbelief of those beholding His miraculous signs who yet reject the obvious implications. Satan blinds the hearts of unbelievers even to this day. Only by God’s grace can we see clearly, as the Spirit opens our eyes through faith in Jesus Christ.” (Lutheran Study Bible, page1742)

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound 

That saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost but now am found, 

Was blind but now I see!

(Lutheran Service Book, #744)

Lord Jesus, please open my eyes to Your presence in my life. To this end, grant me a hunger for Your Word, the Bible. And then please use me to share You and Your promises with others. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Monday, April 8, 2024 - THE UNFORGIVABLE SIN

 

"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, April 8, 2024 - Day 99 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 1 Samuel 1-3; Luke 12:1-34 )

THE UNFORGIVABLE SIN

“And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God, but the one who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God. And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.” (Luke 12:8-10 ESV)

A couple of people I met some years ago would be surprised to know that they are guilty of the unforgivable sin. One claimed to be an agnostic and the other stated that she sees good in all religions, after all, “we all serve the same God.” 

Jesus is calling us to genuine Christianity, the belief that “there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name (Jesus) under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12 ESV)

The unforgivable sin, a.k.a. the sin against the Holy Spirit, is the refusal to believe in Christ as Savior. Luther’s explanation to the Third Article of the Apostles’s Creed helps us understand the Spirit’s most crucial work:

I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith. 

Those people I met in the past had one thing going for them... They were still alive. They still had a chance to believe in Jesus as their Savior from sin. I encouraged both of them to look at Jesus, to read His words recorded in the gospels, especially John. It is through the Word of God that the Holy Spirit changes minds and leads doubters to Jesus and His precious gifts of forgiveness and heaven.

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, please protect me and keep my faith strong in Jesus my Savior. Help me to keep my eyes and ears open for others who do not believe in Christ so that You can use me to share the best news they will ever hear. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf