"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
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