Thursday, November 21, 2024 - 100% GUILTY

 

"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, November 21, 2024 - Day 326 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 22,23; James 2)

100% GUILTY

“For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it.” (James 2:10 ESV)

 

People have a tendency to excuse their sinful activities by comparing themselves to “big” sinners (murders, rapists, drunk drivers and bank robbers). James reminds us that all sin is rebellion against God, and results in each one of us being judged 100% guilty. YOU AND I ARE LAW BREAKERS.

The good news is that there is hope for us. It comes from the One who kept God’s entire Law perfectly. Jesus was 100% innocent, yet He suffered as one who was 100% guilty when He died on Calvary’s cross for us. And now anyone who trusts in Him for forgiveness is also declared 100% innocent and fit for heaven.

1. Jesus sinners doth receive;

Oh, may all this saying ponder

Who in sin's delusions live

And from God and heaven wander!

Here is hope for all who grieve--

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

2. We deserve but grief and shame,

Yet His words, rich grace revealing,

Pardon, peace, and life proclaim.

Here their ills have perfect healing

Who with humble hearts believe--

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

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. 

7. Now my conscience is at peace,

From the Law I stand acquitted;

Christ hath purchased my release

And my every sin remitted.

Naught remains my soul to grieve,--

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

(The Lutheran Hymnal #324)

Heavenly Father, thank You for You amazing plan to change me from 100% guilty to 100% innocent. Please remind me to humbly admit my guilt and trust in Your gift of forgiveness every day. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 - WISDOM FROM 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, November 20, 2024 - Day 325 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 20,21; James 1)

WISDOM FROM GOD

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5 ESV)

 

Many people think that they are pretty smart. However, if they are living their lives without God, they are actually foolish. 

James encourages us to ask God for wisdom. And what will He give you? The wisdom He gives leads you to look to Jesus, and Jesus alone, for hope and peace. Godly wisdom is found in putting God first and trusting in His gift of forgiveness and heaven. 

6. Knowledge and truth, loud sounding wisdom, 

Sing to the Lord a new song!

Daughter and son, loud praying members, 

Sing to the Lord a new song!

He has done marvelous things. 

I, too, will praise him with a new song!

7. Children of God, dying and rising, 

Sing to the Lord a new song!

Heavens and earth, hosts everlasting, 

Sing to the Lord a new song!

He has done marvelous things. 

I, too, will praise him with a new song!

(“Earth and All Stars,” LSB #817)

Heavenly Father, thank You for granting me the wisdom to believe in Jesus as my one and only Savior and Lord. May I sing His new song for the rest of my life. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 - TURN AND LIVE

"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, November 19, 2024 - Day 324 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 17,18,19; Hebrews 13)

TURN AND LIVE

“Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, declares the Lord God, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live?” (Ezekiel 18:23 ESV)

There are people who look at all of the evil in the world, and decide that they want nothing to do with a God would allow it to continue. There are others, sometimes the same ones, who reject the idea of a God who would sentence unbelieving sinners to hell. The tragic thing is that they have never looked into the heart of God.

Ezekiel gives us a glimpse into God’s heart in today’s verse. God doesn’t want sinners to die without Jesus. His great desire is for sinners, like you and me, to repent of our sins and live with Him eternally. In other words, God wants us to turn from living for ourselves to living for Him by trusting in Jesus as our Savior and Lord.

Hymn writer Thomas Hastings urgently urges all to turn from their earthly ways and really living:

   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? 

   (Lutheran Worship #349)

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus in order to make it possible for me to turn away from myself and live with You. May the Holy Spirit continue His work of turning me to You for the rest of my life. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

 

Monday, November 18, 2024 - GREAT SIN, GREAT 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, November 18, 2024 - Day 323 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 16; Hebrews 12)

GREAT SIN, GREAT MERCY

“You bear the penalty of your lewdness and your abominations, declares the Lord.” (Ezekiel 16:58 ESV)

“In a long allegorical satire, Ezekiel equates idolatry with adultery. The underlying theme is one of base ingratitude. Forgetting God’s unmerited grace, Jerusalem chases after the favors of idolatrous nations. God has no alternative but to punish her severely. If the Lord can restore someone who has fallen as far as Jerusalem, He can restore anyone. His grace is broad enough to cover even your greatest sin.” (Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 1334)

   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!

   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!

   (Lutheran Service Book #809 stanza 3)

Heavenly Father, as You forgave Jerusalem, even so forgive me. At the same time, preserve my faith when I must endure the consequences of my sin. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Sunday, November 17, 2024 - PEACE WHEN THERE IS NO PEACE

 

"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, November 17, 2024 - Day 322 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 13-15; Hebrews 11:20-40)

PEACE WHEN THERE IS NO PEACE

“Precisely because they have misled my people, saying, ‘Peace,’ when there is no peace...” (Ezekiel 13:10 ESV)

Ezekiel is warning God’s people against false prophets who proclaim peace when there is no peace. 

The truth is precisely the way C.S. Lewis put it: 

“God cannot give us happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing.”

Here is another way to look at peace: 

“No Jesus, no peace. Know Jesus, know peace.”

Jesus offers real peace to all who trust in Him:

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27 ESV)

   2. We deserve but grief and shame,

Yet His words, rich grace revealing,

Pardon, peace, and life proclaim.

Here their ills have perfect healing

Who with humble hearts believe--

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

(“Jesus Sinners Doth Receive,” The Lutheran Hymnal #324)

Lord Jesus, please fill me with Your everlasting peace that comes from trusting You for forgiveness and everything. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning.

Pastor David Paape

Saturday, November 16, 2024 - BELIEVE, BELIEVE, BELIEVE

 

"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, November 16, 2024 - Day 321 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 10-12; Hebrews11:1-19 )

BELIEVE, BELIEVE, BELIEVE

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1a ESV)

What the unbelieving world needs to see in followers of Jesus is vibrant faith. Our verse for today reminds us of the assurance and conviction that we have in Jesus.

● He died innocently die on the cross in payment for our sins.

● Sinners who sincerely repent and have faith in Jesus are forgiven.

● Because Jesus rose from the dead, we too will rise to eternal life.

● And now we can have peace and comfort no matter what life may throw at us.

● And we have lasting hope because we believe in the One true God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit!

When doubt and uncertainty arise, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we need to doubt our doubts and believe, believe, believe.

In this time of desperation

When all we know is doubt and fear

There is only one foundation

We believe, we believe

In this broken generation

When all is dark, You help us see

There is only one salvation

We believe, we believe

We believe in God the Father

We believe in Jesus Christ

We believe in the Holy Spirit

And He's given us new life

We believe in the crucifixion

We believe that He conquered death

We believe in the resurrection

And He's comin' back again, we believe. 

(“We Believe,” The Newsboys)

Link to “We Believe”    https://youtu.be/T5CVN-dpvbQ

Heavenly Father, thank You for granting me saving faith in Jesus, my Savior. May He keep my faith strong and certain. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow morning.

Pastor David Paape

Friday, November 15, 2024 - ENCOURAGEMENT - THE DAY IS GETTING LATE

 

"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, November 15, 2024 - Day 320 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 7-9; Hebrews10:24-39 )

ENCOURAGEMENT - THE DAY IS GETTING LATE

“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV)

The writer to the Hebrews reminds us that the Day is drawing near. Judgement Day is coming soon. His advice is that we spend our remaining time encouraging, or stirring up one another to love and good works. 

Such love and good works have to flow from a close relationship with God, hence he calls to “not neglect to meet together, as is the habit of some.” When God comes to us in worship, He strengthens our faith and prepares for lives of faithful service.

   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.

Almighty God, may I find in the cross of my Savior Jesus the motivation to live a life of love and good works, all to Your glory. Please grant me a strong desire to meet with my brothers and sisters in Your house on a weekly basis, so that You can feed my soul with Your precious Word and Sacraments. As You encourage me, may I also encourage others. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Thursday, November 14, 2024 - GOD’S PROMISES ARE TRUE

 

"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, November 14, 2024 - Day 319 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 4-6; Hebrews10:1-23)

GOD’S PROMISES ARE TRUE

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23 ESV)

Life can get tough. There are so many negative distractions that can drain us of hope. Perhaps the writer to the Hebrews was aware of these challenges to faith, so he encouraged his hearers:

   ● Keep the faith.

   ● Don’t loose hope.

   ● Don’t give up on Jesus.

   ● Remember that God always keeps His promises.

   ● Look for God’s faithfulness.

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!

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!

(Lutheran Service Book # 809) 

Almighty God, when life gets difficult, please keep me faithful and full of hope as I remember Your faithfulness to sinners like me. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Wednesday, November 13, 2024 -

 

"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, November 13, 2024 - Day 318 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Ezekiel 1-3; Hebrews 9)

THE BLOOD OF JESUS - PRICELESS

“Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.” (Hebrews 9:22 ESV)

The Old Testament sacrificial system that required the blood sacrifice of animals pointed to shedding of Christ’s blood as a sacrifice for the sins of mankind. Do you understand what this means for you personally?

“The blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7b ESV)

1. Not all the blood of beasts

   On Jewish altars slain

   Could give the guilty conscience peace

   Or wash away the stain.

2. But Christ, the heav'nly Lamb,

   Takes all our sins away;

   A sacrifice of nobler name

   And richer blood than they.

5. Believing, we rejoice

   To see the curse remove;

   We bless the Lamb with cheerful voice

   And sing His bleeding love.

   (Lutheran Service Book # 431) 

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for shedding Your blood in payment for my sins. Bless my regular reception of Your body and Your blood in remembrance of Your sacrifice. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Tuesday, November 12, 2024 - 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)

Tuesday, November 12, 2024 - Day 317 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Lammentations 3-5; Hebrews 8)

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!

   (Lutheran Service Book  # 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.

Pastor David Paape

Monday, November 11, 2024 - BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS-VETERANS DAY 2024

 

"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, November 11, 2024 - Day 316 (Through the Bible in a year reading for today: Joshua 1)

BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS-VETERANS DAY 2024

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9 ESV)

Today is Veterans Day 2024. The first chapter of Joshua contains three times when it the reader is encouraged to “be strong and courageous.” This truly defines those who serve in the United States military. We pause today to thank our veterans for their service to America and our freedom.

In John’s Gospel we find a verse that can apply to those who gave the highest measure of devotion and paid for our freedom with their lives. However, the following words apply first to what Jesus has done for us. “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13 ESV) 

● Because Jesus laid down His life for you, fellow believer, your sins are forgiven and you have been reconciled to almighty God! 

● Because Jesus laid down His life for you, you are now part of His forever family, the holy Christian Church.

● Because Jesus laid down His life for you, you can now be strong and courageous no matter what you may face in this life.

1. Eternal Father, strong to save, 

    Whose arm has bound the restless wave,

    Who bidd’st the mighty ocean deep 

    Its own appointed limits keep:

    O hear us when we cry to Thee 

    For those in peril on the sea.

2. O Christ, the Lord of hill and plain, 

    O’er which our traffic runs amain

    By mountain pass or valley low, 

    Wherever, Lord, Thy people go,

    Protect them by Thy guarding hand 

    From every peril of the land.

3. O Spirit, whom the Father sent 

    To spread abroad the firmament,

    O wind of heaven, by Thy might 

    Save all who dare the eagles flight,

    And keep them by Thy watchful care 

    From every peril of the air.

4. O Trinity of love and pow’r, 

    Our people shield in danger’s hour,

    From rock and tempest, fire and foe, 

    Protect them wheresoe’er they go;

    Thus evermore shall rise to Thee 

    Glad hymns and praise from land and sea.

   (Lutheran Service Book #717)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the sacrifice of those who have served in the United States military. Please watch over those who are serving now. Above all, I thank You for Jesus sacrifice for me on Calvary’s cross. Help me to be strong and courageous as I remember all that You have done for me and are still doing today. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Sunday, November 10, 2024 - STANDING FOR JESUS

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

Sunday, November 10, 2024 - Day 315 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Lammentations 1,2; Hebrews 7 )

STANDING FOR JESUS

“If you abide in my word you are truly my disciples.” (John 8:31 ESV)

Martin Luther, the major leader of the Reformation, was born on November 10, 1483. Few knew that the little baby baptized the next day would turn the world upside by pointing lost sinners to Jesus. How did the Lord work through Luther? The same way that He wants to work through you, by means of His Word, the Bible!

The graphic on this page depicts Luther standing before the great powers of his day, the emperor and representatives of the pope. He was able to make such a bold stand because He was totally convinced of the truthfulness and authority of the Bible.

Jesus encouraged Luther and you and me to abide in His word. How do we do this?

● Read the Bible every day.

● Attend church every week.

● Live the truth of God’s Word every second.

    God's Word is our great heritage

    And shall be ours forever;

    To spread its light from age to age

    Shall be our chief endeavor.

    Through life it guides our way,

    In death it is our stay.

    Lord, grant, while worlds endure,

    We keep its teachings pure

    throughout all generations.

    (Lutheran Service Book #582)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example all who, like Luther, courageously and faithfully stand up for You even in the face of great opposition. Please help to keep Your Word in my everyday living too. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

Saturday, November 9, 2024 - AN ANCHOR OF HOPE

 

"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, November 9, 2024 - Day 314 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Jeremiah 51,52; Hebrews 6)

AN ANCHOR OF HOPE

“We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 6:19-20 ESV) 

The writer of Hebrews continues the high priest theme in chapter 8. He reminds us that since Jesus, our high priest, was the last and fulfilling sacrifice, we have the hope of forgiveness and heaven.

The reference to “a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul,” shows us that this hope is not the kind of hope we have for our favorite football team to win. Instead, the hope that anchors our souls is a sure confidence in “the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.”

    My hope is build on nothing less 

    Than Jesus blood and righteousness.

    No merit of my own I claim 

    But wholly lean on Jesus' name.

    On Christ the solid Rock I stand; 

    All other ground is sinking sand.

     (Lutheran Service Book #575)

Heavenly Father, thank You the gift of Jesus, the anchor for my soul. Please keep me anchored in Him for the rest of my life so that I may spend eternity in the safe harbor of heaven.  In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow morning!

Pastor David Paape

Friday, November 8, 2024 - OUR HIGH PRIEST

"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, November 8, 2024 - Day 313 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Jeremiah 49,50; Hebrews 5)

OUR HIGH PRIEST

“So also Christ did not exalt himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed by him who said to him, ‘You are my Son, today I have begotten you’; as he says also in another place, ‘You are a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek.’” (Hebrews 5:5-6 ESV) 

The role of the Old Testament high priest was to intercede for the people, offer sacrifices for their sins, and proclaim the Word and will of God.

Jesus came to be our Prophet, Priest and King. Our verses for today refer to His role as Priest. As our perfect High Priest...

● Jesus intercedes with God the Father on behalf of us sinners. In fact, Jesus and the Holy Spirit are the only intercessors the Bible identifies.

● Jesus sacrificed Himself in payment for our sins by dying on the cross in our place.

● Jesus, who is the Word, proclaimed the Word and will of His Father perfectly!

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to be my high priest. Thank You for His intercession, His sacrifice, and His word of comfort and direction! Lord Jesus, please continue to intercede for me. Amen.

Thursday, November 7, 2024 - A TWO-EDGED SWORD

 

"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, November 7, 2024 - Day 312 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Jeremiah 46-48; Hebrews 4)

A TWO-EDGED SWORD

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12 ESV) 

The sword was a common weapon in The Bible. The Old Testament Hebrew and New Testament Greek words for sword refer to both swords and daggers. Some were short, others were long, some were straight, others were curved, but regardless of their differences, they were always very deadly at close range.

In our verse for today, God’s Word, the Bible, is called a double-edged sword. Double-edged swords were useful for both offense and defense. What we find in the Bible are two basic messages, Law and Gospel. Both messages touch our souls and spirits. God uses the Law to wake us up to our sinful and lost condition. He then uses the Gospel to pick us up with the good news that Jesus paid for our sins on the cross. The hymn writer beautifully lays out both sides in this stanza:

   The Law reveals the guilt of sin

   And makes us conscience-stricken;

   But then the Gospel enters in

   The sinful soul to quicken.

   Come to the cross, trust Christ, and live;

   The Law no peace can ever give,

   No comfort and no blessing.

   (Lutheran Service Book  #555-8)

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the Bible, Your spiritual sword that directs me to repent and believe, and then motivates me to live. Give me a hunger for Your word, that I may daily read, mark, learn and inwardly digest this precious gift. In Jesus’ saving name.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Wednesday, November 6, 2024 - GOD MADE 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)

Wednesday, November 6, 2024 - Day 311 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Jeremiah 43-45 Hebrews 3)

GOD MADE EVERYTHING

“For every house is built by someone, but the builder of all things is God.” (Hebrews 3:4 ESV) 

When it comes to the origin of the world, many Bible doubters say that God didn’t create the world by the power of His word. However, we do believe what the Bible has to say: 

“The builder of all things is God.” 

“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”   (Genesis 1:1)

We Christians take great comfort in the fact that we are not the result of random happenstance. Instead, we are part of God’s plan.

   Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!

   O my soul, praise him, for he is your health and salvation!

   Let all who hear Now to his temple draw near,

   Joining in glad adoration!

   (Lutheran Service Book #790-1)

Lord Jesus, thank You for creating the world and everything and everyone in it. Help us to always remember that You, the King of creation, are in charge of everything.  Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Tuesday, November 5, 2024 - PAY ATTENTION

 

"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, November 5, 2024 - Day 310 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Jeremiah 40-42 Hebrews 2)\

PAY ATTENTION

“Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.” (Hebrews 2: 1 ESV) 

This is a warning for our day. Tragically, many have carelessly drifted away from God! And this is extremely dangerous! Instead, the Lord is calling us to...

  

● Pay attention to what you have learned from the Bible.

● Pay attention to what you learned from Luther’s Small Catechism.

● Pay attention to the blessing of prayer.

● Pay attention to the receiving the body and blood of your Savior often.

● Pay attention to the blessings of your Baptism.   

● Pay attention to Jesus!

Listen, listen, 

God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

Jesus gave his mandate; share the good news 

that he came to save us and set us free.

Listen, listen,

God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

Help us to be faithful, standing steadfast, 

walking in Your precepts, led by Your Word.

Listen, listen, 

God is calling through the Word inviting, 

offering forgiveness, comfort and joy.

(Lutheran Service Book #833)

Lord Jesus, help me to pay close attention to You and all that You mean to me. And, on this election day, please bless America with leaders who will carry out Your will for our country. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Monday, November 4, 2024 - TRULY ONE OF A KIND

 

"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, November 4, 2024 - Day 309 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Jeremiah 38,39 Hebrews 1)

TRULY ONE OF A KIND

"Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high." (Hebrews 1:1-3 ESV) 

Jesus is truly one of a kind! 

●  He speaks to us as the very Word of God. 

●  He participated in the Creation of the world.

●  He is the radiance of the glory of God because He IS God!

●  He is the all-powerful Word (John 1:1ff).

●  He made purification for our sins by dying on the cross. 

●  He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father.

   Beautiful Savior, Lord of the nations, 

   Son of God and Son of Man!

   Glory and honor, Praise adoration 

   Now and forevermore be thine!

   (Lutheran Service Book #537- 4)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being my Beautiful Savior and my everything. Please use me to share You and Your love with others. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Sunday, November 3, 2024 - WHAT DO PEOPLE HEAR ABOUT 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, November 3, 2024 - Day 308 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Jeremiah 36,37 Philemon)

WHAT DO PEOPLE HEAR ABOUT YOU?

“I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints, and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ.” (Philemon 1:4-6 ESV) 

What do people hear about you? Paul apparently had heard good things about Philemon. 

If, like Philemon, you have love and faith for Jesus and His people, others will soon hear about it. 

Love is patient and forbearing, 

Clothed in Christ’s humility,

Gentle, selfless, kind, and caring, 

Reaching out in charity.

(Lutheran Service Book  #706- 2)

Heavenly Father, thank You for my salvation. Please help me to share Your love with others so that they may see You in me. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

Saturday, November 2, 2024 - WHAT GOD HAS FOR YOU IN CHURCH

 

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

Saturday, November 2, 2024 - Day 307 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Jeremiah 33-35 Titus 3)

WHAT GOD HAS FOR YOU IN CHURCH

“But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (Titus 3:4-7 ESV) 

What do you find when you go to church? You find the goodness and kindness of God as He comes to You in His Word and Sacrament. His Word reminds you that you cannot be saved by what you do (works). Instead, it is God’s merciful washing away of your sins that makes you justified in God’s sight.

The focal point of my former church, as in many of our churches, is the cross. It constantly reminds us that the Holy Spirit renews our relationship with God by means of Jesus and His cross. The cross is our constant reminder that eternal life is ours only through Jesus substitutionary death for sinners like you and me. 

   Led on their way by this triumphant sign, 

   The hosts of God in conqu'ring ranks combine.

   Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim

   Till all the world adore His sacred name.

   (Lutheran Service Book #837)

Heavenly Father, thank You for church, and Your promise to meet me there. Grant me a hunger for Your Word and the message of Christ’s cross. Please make me watchful for opportunities to lift high the cross, and proclaim Christ’s love. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow morning!

Pastor David Paape