The Last Shall Be First

Read Psalm 67

Quote from Luther: "The 67th psalm is a prophecy of Christ, that He shall be king the whole world over and rule the people rightly, that is, rule them with the Gospel, that they may be freed from sin to live for Him in righteousness and thank Him with joy. As we have often stated, this is the new and proper worship of God." (Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH).

Read Matthew 2o

Jesus began in the last two chapters to explain his teaching that the first shall be last, and the last shall be first. Here in chapter 20 he really drives that teaching home as he talks about it almost the whole chapter.

The parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard is one that Lutherans love. We love to remember that we are saved by grace through faith, not by works. Our works haven't earned us heaven any more than the workers who only worked one hour earned a whole day's wages. But God is gracious, and God gives out of love and generosity.

We love the theology of the parable, but the practical application is hard to bear, yes, even for Lutherans. We all have the sinful nature still clinging to us, so like James and John (and their mother) we are constantly thinking that we deserve more than we do, and we focus on how "good" we are and what kind of reward we have coming.

This is not the proper motivation, nor the right way to live. Jesus alone reserves the right to hand out heavenly rewards as he sees fit. And we can be sure that we have not earned one single reward in heaven - not even the tiniest one. Jesus earned them, and then he gave them to us. Even the truly good works we have done have been done as the Holy Spirit worked in us. So again, we can't take credit for that.

Therefore, we are encouraged not to focus on the reward. Rather we are called to be humble. We are called to serve the Lord, for even the Son of Man came not to be served (though he could have forced everyone to wait on him hand and foot!). He came, rather, to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.

That ransom forgives us for all of our pride and conceit. I confess pride every Sunday when we pause before our corporate confession. Pride took down Satan. Pride took down Adam and Eve. Pride can take me down too.

But Jesus' ransom forgives me that pride. And his Spirit renews me, changes me, and makes me humble...Or, I should say, he continues to work to make me humble (I'm not quite there yet). I am so glad that he continues to teach me to live like Christ, to put myself last, and to live for the Lord. I only pray that the less I get in his way, the more God would use me to accomplish his purposes.

And I am thankful that though I know I will not be at Jesus left or his right, so to speak, I will still be with him in my eternal home. Thanks be to God!

Ask Yourself:

How does my pride show itself?

How can I better serve humbly today?

Pray:

Lord, help us walk Your servant way
Wherever love may lead
And, bending low, forgetting self,
Each serve the other's need.

You bid us bend our human pride
Nor count ourselves above
The lowest place, the meanest task
That waits the gift of love.

(LSB 857:1, 4)

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Read Psalm 66

Read Matthew 19

Read Psalm 65

Read Matthew 18

Happy Thanksgiving!

We have so much to be thankful for! For our thanksgiving meditation today, we will read Psalm 136. This recounts the making of all things by God. He creates, preserves, and sustains. The psalm also recounts salvation history. He is not just the God who creates, but also who loves and saves. The salvation history recounted here is our own, accomplished through Christ.

Our reading:

Psalm 136

His Steadfast Love Endures Forever

¹ Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
²Give thanks to the God of gods,
for his steadfast love endures forever.
³Give thanks to the Lord of lords,
for his steadfast love endures forever;

⁴to him who alone does great wonders,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
⁵to him who by understanding made the heavens,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
⁶to him who spread out the earth above the waters,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
⁷to him who made the great lights,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
⁸the sun to rule over the day,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
⁹the moon and stars to rule over the night,
for his steadfast love endures forever;

¹⁰to him who struck down the firstborn of Egypt,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
¹¹and brought Israel out from among them,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
¹²with a strong hand and an outstretched arm,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
¹³to him who divided the Red Sea in two,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
¹⁴ and made Israel pass through the midst of it,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
¹⁵but overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red Sea,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
¹⁶to him who led his people through the wilderness,
for his steadfast love endures forever;

¹⁷to him who struck down great kings,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
¹⁸and killed mighty kings,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
¹⁹Sihon, king of the Amorites,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
²⁰and Og, king of Bashan,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
²¹and gave their land as a heritage,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
²²a heritage to Israel his servant,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

²³It is he who remembered us in our low estate,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
²⁴and rescued us from our foes,
for his steadfast love endures forever;
²⁵he who gives food to all flesh,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

²⁶Give thanks to the God of heaven,
for his steadfast love endures forever.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Fully Divine

Read Psalm 64

Read Matthew 17

How human Jesus always appears to us! Even when doing miraculous things, there are no flashes of light or auras of glory. He just breaks the bread and hands it out as it multiplies, or he spits and rubs it into someone's eyes, or he just touches someone and makes him well. Even the miraculous appears to be very earthly.

But here we have a glimpse of glory. It is important that we see this divinity shining through because he is about to go to the cross. In fact, he announces his suffering and death again, and his disciples become seriously disturbed.

And how human Jesus will appear when he is arrested, beaten, whipped, crucified. A human is be nailed to the tree. A human bleeds and dies. Jesus was human. Very human.

But this glimpse of his divinity at his transfiguration will remind us that when Jesus is arrested, beaten, whipped, and crucified he is also very much God. Yes, the Son of God suffers and bleeds and dies for us. Only God could make a payment for our sins. Only God could satisfy the wrath of God. And Jesus was divine. Very divine.

True God and True Man shows his glory on the mountain, and then hides his glory so he might suffer for us. This glory will be revealed in all its fullness when he comes again. I look forward to that.

We have forgiveness, life, and salvation through him. Thanks be to God!

Ask Yourself:

Do I complain to others all the time, or do I complain to God as David does in our psalm?

Would Jesus room to criticize our little faith too?

Can I go through life with confidence like Peter, reminded by Jesus that we are sons of God through Him?

Pray:

Pray from your heart today. Thank God for this glimpse of his glory. Ask him to increase your faith.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

What Kind of Christ

Read Psalm 63

Read Matthew 16

The portion of this reading concerning the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees makes me laugh. Not that I would have understood perfectly. I'm sure I would have misunderstood just like the disciples. But I laugh a little because the story reminds me how quickly we forget that God is powerful. Jesus isn't worried about a little yeast, or about their forgetting to bring bread. He had just provided for 5,000 men, and then for 4,000 men, not including women and children. How quickly we also worry and forget all of God's provision and his power to care for us.

Shortly after that, Peter makes this bold confession, acknowledging before the Lord and the other disciples that he believes Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. This confession is the rock of the Church. Peter, a rock, gives a rock-solid confession in Jesus, who is our Rock and foundation! He is Christ, the Son of God, who has come into the world to establish his kingdom.

But Peter does not yet fully realize what kind of Christ Jesus is. This is why Jesus encourages them to keep his identity quiet for a time (theologians call this the Messianic Secret). Why does he do this? Because his time had not yet come. First he must be hated, betrayed, sentenced, tortured, crucified, killed, and raised on the third day, and lifted up to heaven in his ascension. Then he will have completed his Messianic task. Then the disciples are to go about boldly proclaiming the rock-solid confession of who Jesus is and what he came to do.

Peter doesn't get it. Not yet. And we can't fault him for this. He had not yet beheld the crucified and risen Christ with his own eyes.

But soon Peter would fully understand who Christ is, and Peter would stand up before thousands on Pentecost and boldly proclaim the Law of God (that our sins have killed the Son of God) and the Gospel of God (that whoever believes and is baptized shall receive the promised Holy Spirit for the forgiveness of our sins).

That is the same rock-solid confession to which we cling and which we proclaim. This confession is still in the mouths of the members of the Church. The gates of hell cannot overcome it.

This brings me comfort as I see increasing wickedness in the world, and in our own nation. I am comforted knowing that the gates of hell cannot overcome me, nor can they overcome Christianity. And we who endure to the end will be saved and will inherit the crown of life. Not by our own strength, but by the grace of God. Thanks be to our Christ, our crucified and risen, our gracious and powerful, our triumphant and ever-ruling Christ!

Ask Yourself:

Do I quickly forget Jesus' power and fall into worry again?

Does the news of current events cause me to fear the wickedness of this world? What comfort comes to me when I remember that the gates of hell cannot overcome?

Jesus went to the cross for me, for my sins. Do I take time out to discover those sins? Do I take time out to see those sins forgiven?

Pray:

¹O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you;
my flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
²So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,
beholding your power and glory.
³Because your steadfast love is better than life,
my lips will praise you.
⁴So I will bless you as long as I live;
in your name I will lift up my hands. (Ps. 63:1-4)

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Compassion in Action

Read Psalm 62

Read Matthew 15

Do we struggle to believe that God provides? Matthew wants us to believe it - so much so that he includes the feeding of the 4,000 only a short space after the feeding of the 5,000 (it's the very next chapter the way our chapters fall).

What's notable about the feeding of the 4,000 is the reason why Jesus does this miracle. Really, it is an insight into his motivation for all his miracles. The crowd is clinging to his every word. They realize that it is good to be where Jesus is. They have received his healing touch and his gracious words with joy and thanksgiving. And now, after 3 days, they apparently did not have any food left.

And Jesus says, "I have compassion on them." Compassion is a powerful emotion, and Jesus "suffers with" them. He feels their hunger himself, and is moved to action. In the Greek, the word for compassion is the word for bowels or guts. Compassion is something you feel deep in your guts (sometimes we call it the "pit of our stomach"). Jesus feels this intense desire to reach out in love and help.

This is the same motivation that drove him to the cross. Even before he had a body and guts, the Son of God loved us and was obedient to his Father. Therefore he became incarnate. Then that love drove him bodily to suffer with humans. Soon that love would drive him to suffer even more. Instead of suffering with them, he suffered for them (and for us!) on the cross.

Jesus' compassion drove him to death. He provided for the forgiveness of all our sins. He provides us with eternal life and salvation.

And as we go along our way, we can be sure that he will provide for the needs of body and soul. As individuals, as families, as a church, we can trust firmly that as we carefully use his gifts, we will be there help, provide, stretch, multiply, whatever he is pleased to do. After all, he has compassion on his children as we live for him. He has compassion on the lost as we seek to reach out.

What Good News of a compassionate God! Praise be to him forever and ever.

Ask Yourself:

Does compassion motivate my choices and actions?

What comfort do I find knowing that Jesus has the same compassion on me?

How does this motivate my prayer life?

Pray:

Our Father
Who art in heaven
Hallowed be Thy name
Thy kingdom come
Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven
Give us this day our daily bread
And forgive us our trespasses
As we forgive those who trespass against us
And lead us not into temptation
But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom
And the power
And the glory
Forever and ever.
Amen.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

The Gracious Provider

O Lord, "Let me dwell in your tent forever!
Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings!"

And bless our study today. Amen.

Read Psalm 61

Read Matthew 14

It is true that the One who has provided for all our needs is the Lord God. It is true that he usually uses ordinary means to provide. For me, that means working for the Lord, and receiving a paycheck. Carefully dividing that paycheck so that I give firstfruits to the Lord, pay my bills, buy food and clothing and the provisions of life, and save some (hopefully). This is very difficult to do well, impossible to do perfectly. We make what we think is a "good investment" (a purchase or an actual investment) but it turns out to have been a waste. But that's another topic...

...Back to the topic of provision. God ordinarily uses ordinary means. But we see all throughout Scripture that God can, and does use extraordinary measures. Manna falls from the sky. Ravens bring food. An oil jar never runs dry. A flour jar never empties. A fish opens his mouth to provide coins for the temple tax. Fish jump into a net at what should be the wrong time and place. And today, we see a couple fish and a few loaves of bread feed well over 5,000 people.

What should this communicate to us? Well, if we remember that God ordinarily uses ordinary means, we make every effort not to be wasteful or gluttonous. We don't want to put God to the test, challenging him to provide faster than we can spend. So we don't go crazy knowing that God can work miracles.

But on the other hand, when we have done our best to be careful with our funds and all things entrusted to us, then we can certainly be confident that God will provide. And I don't mean to make that sound like his provision is contingent on our perfection. Though we make mistakes, though we make wrong choices because of our limited knowledge, limited skill, or even sinful desires, God still promises that he will provide for his children. We should certainly be confident of this because don't we provide for our children? And we are "evil" compared to God. Won't he certainly provide for his children? Yes.

And so we do our best, but we remember that our provision (in the end) is not dependent upon us. God gives because he is a gracious Provider. He is loving and kind, and sends rain on the good and the wicked alike. So, yes, we should be careful managers of what we have, but never at the expense of faith. Faith is more important. Receiving with thanksgiving, trusting his love, watching for his giving hand, relying on his guiding Spirit, we live with confidence that God can use ordinary and extraordinary means to provide. So let us live boldly. And if something turns out to be a mistake, then we have sinned boldly. But God has forgiven all the more boldly through his tortured Son. He certainly is a gracious provider.

Ask Yourself:

I am to carefully manage everything entrusted to me. What area of management needs improvement?

While I am managing everything, am I led to fear, to worry, to anxious thoughts? If so, do I need to find a better balance between faith and management?

What good gifts has God given me for which I thank him today?

Pray:

"Heavenly Father, thank You for abundantly answering my prayer: 'Give us this day our daily bread.' Amen." (TLSB p. 1612)

Study with me Monday,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

The Gracious Sower

Read Psalm 60

"When we face defeat, O Lord, keep our eyes on Your promises. When we experience loss, keep our hearts filled with Your peace. When we don't understand your plan for us, keep the cross of Christ always before us - the depth and breadth and height of Your love for us. Amen." (TLSB p. 905).

Read Matthew 13

When we study the parable of the sower we can rightly focus on the soil, or on the sower. If we concentrate on the soil, then we believers find ourselves encouraged to be deeply rooted in Scripture, to stand firm in the midst of persecution and tribulation, and also not to let possessions and money choke out our faith. Indeed, we should certainly be on guard against the Devil, against all his works and all his ways. We remember that there is a final judgment coming, which Jesus mentions several times today. The angels gather the harvest. The weeds, the bad fish, the unbelievers are condemned by their own works.

This is a good and helpful teaching for us, useful in instructing us how better to live for the Lord.

When we focus on the Sower, the message is all Gospel. Notice that he does not discriminate in the sowing. In fact, he is downright "wasteful" with it (humanly speaking), sowing even onto the path where it would not grow. We rejoice that God was gracious to sow his Word among us, and that his Spirit has given us life through them. We rejoice that we are growing in faith, and are waiting to be gathered up by God, to be with him forever.

In the mean time, we remember that as Jesus' disciples we are called to make disciples of all nations. That means that we participate in the sowing. We can learn how to sow by watching the Gracious Sower. We sow the seed of his Word to everyone, no matter how we might judge the soil. If we think there is no chance a person will believe, if we think they are too embedded in thorny riches to believe, if we think that they will not believe because of the ridicule they would face from their family, friends, or community - it matters not. We sow anyway. It even appears that we are wasteful with the resources God has given us, because we concentrate our efforts on reaching out to the lost, that is, sowing the seed of the Word to all people. We know in the end, nothing is wasted, because the ones that believe bear abundant fruit.

And we may be surprised. People we thought were like the path or the rocky or thorny ground may sprout and grow - roots at a great depth, fruit bearing abundantly. And, of course, we give the credit concerning our faith and theirs to God alone.

Ask Yourself:

Am I doing what I can to make sure that my plant of faith remains in good soil?

What can I do more to be a better sower of the Word?

Does the final judgment frighten me? If so, how can I better turn from sin and find confidence in the forgiveness of my Savior, Jesus Christ?

Pray:

"O divine Sower, keep me from becoming discouraged as I entrust my life to your Word and seek to share Your message of salvation with others. Amen." (TLSB p. 1608)

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Greater Than...

What a joy it is to study God's Word daily. I have been truly blessed since starting this study. I hope you have too. May God bless our study again today!

Read Psalm 59

Quote from Luther: "The 59th psalm is a psalm of prayer and can very well be spoken in the person of Christ, who lamented over those who by their teachings stood arrayed against Him, to condemn and disavow Him. Thereby they have their reward: They come into the city at evening like hungry dogs, yet find nothing." (Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH)

Read Matthew 12

What an incredible chapter! And so shocking for the Jews to have experienced, I'm sure. Jesus says that something greater than the temple was present. We know he was referring to himself. Jesus says that he, the Son of Man, was Lord of the Sabbath. And on the Sabbath he allows his disciples to "work" at picking the grain. Then he himself heals on the Sabbath (too much work for the Pharisees!) and claimed that it was lawful to "do good" on the Sabbath. No wonder they conspired to destroy him.

Jesus discerns their thoughts and rebukes them. He declares more shocking things: something greater than Jonah had arrived. Then, something greater than Solomon too?

Hmm...who is this Jesus? Greater than the temple, than the Sabbath, than Jonah, than Solomon...Stronger than demons...More powerful than sickness and infirmity...More authoritative than the Pharisees and unafraid to speak his mind.

This Jesus could only be God. And how terrifying that should be for humans, especially when we hear Jesus say "I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned."

Notice that I said "how terrifying that should be." It would mean condemnation for all our sinful words, except this Savior was loving to be crucified for us. Jesus today says, "For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth."

Jesus laid in the tomb to forgive my sins. This Jesus, greater than the temple and Solomon and all the other listed things, this Jesus is pleased to die for me. And rise for me! Let's not forget that. I too, baptized into his death and resurrection, will rise too. No need to fear the judgment now - though I do seek to live for him with all my heart in thanksgiving for the indescribable gift! Thanks be to God.

Ask Yourself:

Do my words justify me (show my innocence) or condemn me? Do I need to work on cleaning up my speech?

How can I better recognize Jesus' authority and appreciate his words?

How will I live for the Lord today?

Pray:

Guard my mouth, O Lord, from speaking words that would detract others from Your truth. O Jesus, My Prophet, Priest, and King, accept the praise I bring because You revealed to me the sign of salvation. Amen.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Divine Rest

O Holy Spirit, speak to us today. Ease our burdens, and quiet the unrest of our lives. Bless our study of Your Word today.

Read Psalm 58

As we read this, one of the most violent psalms, we remember that God helps give expression (that is, gives us appropriate words to use) when we are justly angered, outraged at wickedness, and desiring justice. Though we keep our hands from any kind of violence or revenge, we call out strongly and truly to the God of vengeance.

If we do not feel justly angry at the time, this psalms seems too strong and too violent for our liking. However, we must still pray it on behalf of our suffering brothers and sisters in Christ. They are calling out to God for help and justice. We join in their prayer.

Read Matthew 11

Last night I talked to a friend for the first time since his wife miscarried. They have no answer to the "why" question that weighs on their hearts. And one may never come. They must only trust that God is love, and allow God to heal them over time.

In ministry, I often give pastoral care to people who have lost loved ones, those who are going through a tough time financially, those who have had their world turned upside down in one way or another, those who are terribly sick, and those who are facing their own death. In this life we have numerous sorrows and troubles.

But we are not left without hope and comfort. Jesus promises that he will give us rest. "Take my yoke upon you," he invites us, "and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." He assures us that his burden is light. He promises, "Come to me,...and I will give you rest."

Oh, does my friend and his wife need that rest and peace. Oh, do all the people I minister to need their burdens lightened by Christ. Oh, do I need his daily comfort and sustenance as well.

The world does not recognize the rest that Jesus gives. This is why Jesus praises his Father that it is "hidden" from the so-called wise and learned. But this rest is given and revealed to us, the Father's little children.

Baptized into Christ, renewed by the Gospel, fed by His own Body and Blood, we receive divine rest. And if we do not receive all the answers we seek in this life, we know that we can at least trust that God is love, and that he is by our side everyday to give us peace, comfort, hope, and even rest.

Ask Yourself:

What burdens has my own sin placed upon me?

What burdens do I hand over to my Savior today?

Do I realize that his yoke, the cross that I carry for him, is light because he is shouldering the load? What can I do to remind myself of this more often?

Pray:

Pray from your heart today concerning the hurt, pain, suffering, and unrest in your life and in the lives of those around you. Thank God that Jesus removes those burdens from us and, in time, gives us rest. Thank God that total perfect rest is guaranteed to us by the Holy Spirit who lives in us.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Adversity and Persecution

Read Psalm 57

Quote from Luther: "The 57th psalms is a psalm of prayer in which David once again complains about Saul and his servants - when he crawled away from them into the cave. It has the same meaning as the preceding psalm. Therefore, we would make us of it also against the tyrants and their venomous counselors and slanderers, who twist God's Word against us. They have the fangs and tongue for such work, which are - as David says - spears, arrows, and sharp swords. But thanks be to God, who does not desert us, but hurls them into the pit that they have prepared for us. Their plots finally come down on their own heads."

Read Matthew 10

It is interesting how Jesus begins talking about the disciples' immediate experience and transitions to speaking about their proclaiming of the Good News after his ascension into heaven. Really, he is speaking about them and future disciples (including us). You can tell that Jesus has transitioned away from just the immediate future because he began by telling them not to go to the Gentiles (just for a time, so he could fulfill the promises given to Israel by his death and resurrection), and then he tells them that they will be his witnesses before kings and Gentiles. First they go to Israel. Then later, after his ascension, they are sent to all the Gentiles.

We should expect to be persecuted. If not physically tortured or killed, then hated, ridiculed, and despised. Families will be divided. Disciples will be cast into adversity. And Jesus speaks one of my favorite proverbs: "be wise as serpents and innocent as doves." I believe this encourages us to be shrewd as we are out there in the world, aware of all the lies and schemes and manipulations and deceptions and temptations of the Devil, yet avoiding it all so we can remain righteous and innocent before God.

And this is tough to do. The subtle deceptions of the Devil and the outright physical opposition have tripped up many Christians. The Good News is that there is abundant forgiveness for all of us. And abundant strength!

My Lutheran Study Bible (TLSB) summarizes: "Jesus warns his disciples to expect persecution as they carry out their mission of being His witnesses. This opposition to the Gospel is evidence of sin's grip on the human heart. When we experience abuse because of our loyalty to Jesus, we have His assurance that the Holy Spirit will help us to speak the right words. he will use our Gospel testimony to soften the hard hearts of unbelievers" (p. 1600).

And so we do well to pray with David: "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" (Ps. 57:1).

And just as David was rescued from the hand of Saul, Jesus has rescued us from sin, death, and the Devil. He is able to rescue us from the hand of men too. But if God permits us to suffer in this life for his sake, we can take comfort that God, who alone has the power to destroy the soul in hell, has promised us everlasting life in heaven instead of hell.

Really, what can man do to me?

Ask Yourself:

Though I may not be facing physical persecution, am I being persecuted for the sake of Christ in other ways?

Am I trusting God to make me a bold witness? Am I courageously speaking God's Word, trusting God's Will to be done.

What can I do to remain innocent as doves? What can I do to be shrewd as a serpent?

Pray:

Lord Jesus, strengthen my determination to serve as Your ambassador of peace, even when I encounter opposition. Help me to stand firm to the end and faithfully bear witness concerning you in word and deed. "I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations. For your steadfast love is great to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds" (Psalm 57:9-10). Amen.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Good Physician

Welcome. May God bless our study today.

Read Psalm 56

Read Matthew 9

Today we see that Jesus is the Good Physician of body and soul. Today he reaches out in compassion and forgives a paralyzed man, healing his sinful soul. Then he reaches down heals the man's crippled body.

Later when he calls Matthew to be his disciple, he explains that he has come precisely for sinners like Matthew. After all, the well don't need a doctor, only the sick.

Jesus heals many other people, but also, most amazingly, he even raises a girl from the dead!

And this Jesus who has authority over death is still active in this world. Though he has ascended to heaven, he tells us that he has all authority in heaven and on earth and that he is always with us.

Yes, we can be assured that the Good Physician of body and soul is still active in our lives. All our sins are forgiven by him. The Pharisees disbelieved that he had this ability to forgive. But we are convinced, for Scriptures have revealed to us, and the Holy Spirit has confirmed within us, that Jesus has indeed conquered sin, death, and the Devil, and grants this victory to us.

We know he forgives us. And we believe that he has the power to heal. It doesn't mean we don't take medicine, or go see a doctor, but it does mean that if healing comes we give credit to God. It does mean also that we trust in God more than earthly treatments. It means that ultimately, even if God allows us to suffer and die in this life, He, the Good Physician, will heal us perfectly and completely on the Last Day, when he raises these bodies out of their graves and glorifies them. Yes, the Good Physician will give perfect health to our glorified bodies forever. How our hurting bodies long for that day. And our our pained souls long for complete restoration too. Imagine: no sin, but only perfect love! Come, Lord Jesus!

Ask Yourself:

Do I see myself as spiritually sick and in need of healing, or do I often believe I am well and don't need the Good Physician?

What diseases of body and soul need healing from Jesus Christ?

When I am in trouble, do I remind myself to trust in God, as David does in our psalm today?

Pray:

Pray from your heart today. Ask God to heal you in body and soul. Ask him to strengthen you to endure the troubles of this life. Thank him for the sure promise that he will raise and glorify our bodies. Thank him that Jesus has won the victory for us!

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Miracles

O Holy Spirit, fill us with wisdom and understanding as we study Scripture today. Then strengthen us to put faith in action. Amen.

Read Psalm 55

Read Matthew 8

We usually read the events of Matthew chapter 8 in little chunks. There is so much to talk about with each one: the faith of the centurion; Jesus' authority to heal; Jesus' power over the wind and waves; why Jesus wants to keep some miracles a secret; the fearful reaction of some; and much more.

But how fun it is (yes, fun is the right word) and how very encouraging it is to read the whole chapter all at once, to hear rapid fire about this miracle and that display of power. In this chapter, Jesus' divine nature shines brightly through. We who are his disciples are reminded that Jesus is powerful, he is merciful, and neither the literal nor metaphorical storms of life and neither the wicked on earth nor the terrible demons can overcome him. He is God in the flesh. And he has come not to destroy, but to bless, to heal, to save.

This same Jesus is our God. He is still human, though now he has conquered death and has risen to life never to die again. He is still divine, and now he always and fully uses his divine powers. And this Jesus is active and working in our lives. He has the power to heal. He has the power to calm our storms. He has the power to chase away demons. He has the power to forgive our sins, to carry us safely in life and in death, and to raise us up to new life.

Now, he doesn't promise to always heal us or always calm our storms in this life. However, he does promise that someday he will completely heal, completely rescue, completely save us. Until that day, we are encouraged by the mighty miracles we see in the Bible. Yes, God is active in this world. And yes, God knows and God cares about our situation. Thanks be to God!

Ask Yourself:

What storms in my life to I pray that Jesus would calm? Do I remember that if God appears to be slow in calming them, we know that he will keep his promise sooner or later?

What healing does my loved one need? What healing do I need? Do I have faith that God can heal?

Jesus speaks about the cost of being his disciples. What does it cost me? Do I willingly or begrudgingly "pay the price"?

Pray:

Pray from your heart today. Pray for healing for your loved ones, for members of the church, and for yourself. Pray that you all would remember that Jesus has the authority and the power to heal and to calm storms. Ask for his Spirit to strengthen you all if the answer is "wait."

Study with me Monday,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Upon the Rock

Today we finish the wonderful Sermon on the Mount. What a blessing this sermon is to us. What wonderful instructions for holy living, and such Good News given to all Jesus' disciples (past and present) that he has come to fulfill this Law on our behalf. Filled with his Spirit, let us take this instruction to heart and gladly live it.

Read Psalm 54

Quote from Luther: "The 54th psalm is a psalm of prayer against the persecutors who seek the life of the godly on account of the Word of God. Thus Saul and those in Zipah had attempted to kill David on account of the Word of God, through which he had been called and consecrated to be king. The psalmist prays for deliverance from his enemies and for vengeance upon them."

Read Matthew 7

St. Augustine has summarized the analogy of the wise man who builds on a rock this way: "If Christ is the rock,...that man builds in Christ who does what he hears from Him" (TLSB, p. 1593). Indeed, several places in Scripture call Jesus the Rock. Many psalms even refer to God as the Rock of our Salvation.

And we build our proverbial house on that Rock of Jesus Christ when we hear Jesus' words and do what he says (that is, putting our faith in action). In another place (John 15), Jesus has encouraged us to remain in his Word, that is, remain in him and he will remain in us and we will bear much fruit.

There are multiple results of remaining in Jesus Word. In John 15 Jesus focuses on the good works that we do because of the Word. Here in Matthew 7, Jesus focuses on our being able to weather all the rain, floods, and wind of this troubled life.

Notice that the wise man still has the storm hit his house, just like the foolish man. But the difference is that the wise man can stand firm and not be swept away. So we all will have tragedies, sadness, struggles, and pains in this life. But the wise man has a way to cope. He has trust in a God who will hold him firm. He has stability because this God is his Rock and solid Foundation.

The man who is wise unto salvation and builds his house on the Rock is a man who believes in Jesus. Jesus suffered the tempest of the Father's just and violent wrath. Jesus was crushed by that wrath, was afflicted and smitten down. But Jesus, after suffering, bleeding, dying, and lying dead in a tomb, came back to life. He now is the Foundation, the Rock that will never be shaken. Never. Never never.

You and I who are built on him cannot be shaken either. Yes, trials will come. But trials will also go. And when we attain everlasting life, all storms will cease. No more suffering, no more troubles, no more tribulation. And we can rejoice and thank the Rock of our Salvation, that he forgave our sins, founded us upon himself, and kept us safe and strong. Thanks be to God!

Ask Yourself:

Am I quick to judge others? Do I judge hypocritically? Do I confront others with God's Law only humbly, carefully, and lovingly?

How can I better treat others? Where do I get the strength to treat others the way I would like to be treated?

Can others tell I am a healthy tree by the good fruit that I bear? If yes, how can I do even more? If not, how can I turn my life around?

Pray:

Christ is made the sure foundation,
Christ, our head and cornerstone,
Chosen of the Lord and precious,
Binding all the Church in one;
Holy Zion's help forever
And our confidence alone.

Grant, we pray, to all Your faithful
All the gifts they ask to gain;
What they gain from you, forever
With the blessed to retain;
And hereafter in Your glory
Evermore with You to reign.

Praise and honor to the Father,
Praise and honor to the Son,
Praise and honor to the Spirit,
Ever three and ever one:
One in might and one in glory
While unending ages run!

(LSB 909:1, 3-4, Public Domain)

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Pray Then Like This:

Welcome! There are next to no comments from me today. We have just our Scripture readings, instructions from the Small Catechism, and a hymn as our prayer (Nothing I add will benefit such a wonderful study). Today we are instructed in Matthew 6 not to worry, but rather to trust that God provides. As we focus on the Lord's Prayer, Luther spells out clearly for us this provision of God. May God bless our study.

Read Psalm 53

Matthew 6

Quotes from the Small Catechism concerning the Lord's Prayer:

"God tenderly invites us to believe that He is our true Father and that we are his true children, so that with all boldness and confidence we may ask Him as dear children ask their dear father."

"God certainly gives daily bread to everyone without our prayers, even to all evil people, but we pray in this petition that God would lead us to realize this and to receive our daily bread with thanksgiving...Daily bread includes everything that has to do with the support and needs of the body...."

"We are neither worthy of the things for which we pray, nor have we deserved them, but we ask that He would give them all to us by grace, for we daily sin much and surely deserve nothing but punishment. So we too will sincerely forgive and gladly do good to those who sin against us."

"I should be certain that these petitions are pleasing to our Father in heaven, and are heard by Him; for He Himself has commanded us to pray in this way and has promised to hear us. Amen, amen means 'yes, yes, it shall be so.'"

Ask yourself:

How is God's will done in my life?

How is God's name kept holy in my life?

How does God's kingdom come to me?

(hint: Luther gives some "answers" to these questions in the Small Catechism. However, I challenge you to go one step further and see how that applies to YOUR INDIVIDUAL lives.)

Pray:

Our Father, who from heav'n above
Bids all of us to live in love
As members of one family
And pray to you in unity,
Teach us no thoughtless words to say
But from our inmost hearts to pray.

From evil, Lord, deliver us;
The times and days are perilous.
Redeem us from eternal death,
And, when we yield our dying breath,
Console us, grant us calm release,
And take our souls to You in peace.

Amen, that is, so shall it be.
Make strong our faith in You, that we
May doubt not but with trust believe
That what we ask we shall receive.
Thus in your name and at Your Word
We say, "Amen, O hear us, Lord!"

(LSB 766:1, 8-9, Public Domain)

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Let Your Light Shine Before Others

Today I provide a quote from Luther on the psalm, but then focus our attention on the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount as recorded by Matthew. May God bless our study today.

Read Psalm 52

Quote from Luther: "The 52nd psalm is a psalm of comfort. As the title shows, it speaks of Doeg, who betrayed David and shed much innocent blood (1 Samuel 22). He was a traitor and bloodthirsty dog, who slandered those who hope in God's Word. He reviled God's servants and incited kings and princes to shed innocent blood. Despite such malevolent people, this psalm brings comfort. It announces their reward, that they shall be removed from body, goods, house, and land. But the godly shall remain and retain God's house and His Word." (Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH)

Read Matthew 5

This is the beginning of a most incredible sermon, the Sermon on the Mount. The sermon begins with the Beatitudes, includes wonderful instructions for holy living, teaches about prayer and the Lord's prayer, and keeps on going through the end of chapter 7. It is marvelous and helpful.

Today I want to focus on 5:16 "...let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Now, Jesus makes it clear that he has not come to abolish the Law so that we can live however we please. But rather, his disciples - (and you see in v. 1 that he is talking to "disciples," that is, to followers who believe in him) - his disciples seek to live for the Lord by living within the laws God has setup. You see, to be forgiven and renewed means that we are now free to do what we couldn't before: keep the law.

So we live for the Lord in many ways, and as we do, our light shines. This is what modern Christians like to call "lifestyle evangelism." That is, you model the love of Christ, you model righteousness, peace, kindness, you model an orderly and good life, and others notice. Some, when they have taken note, will come to learn of God's love through us. They will learn of the righteousness and love of Jesus that is alive and well in us. They will be impacted by our lives. Their hurts will find healing. Their problems will find solutions. Their need will find provision. Their questions will find answers.

So with our actions and with our words we let our lights shine before others. What does that look like? Well, the rest of chapter 5 is filled with advice. Jesus teaches against being angry and holding grudges. He preaches against lust and adultery. He admonishes us uphold the sanctity of marriage. He warns against misusing God's name with frivolous or false oaths. He preaches against taking revenge. He instructs us to love our enemies.

That's quite a list, and Jesus is going to continue. I have a lot to learn. I could probably benefit by coming back to this sermon every week. I know today I resolve to do better, so that my light can shine brighter. I have great peace knowing that where I have fallen short, my Savior has not. He lived perfectly, and died to redeem me, a lost and condemned creature. Now Jesus, the Light of the World, shines through me. What a privilege! I get to follow these instructions of Jesus so that my light can shine too! I get to. Not have to. Get to.

This is why I want to do good works. "Good works are meant to lead others to glorify our heavenly Father, not to bring praise to the one who does them. Leading people to worship the true God is the whole purpose of doing good deeds." May my deeds shine Jesus' light always!

Ask Yourself:

Which teachings of Jesus today were the most comforting and encouraging?

Which of Jesus' teachings were the most difficult for me to read today?

Which teachings today do I need to remind myself often, so that I can better shine God's light?

Pray:

Lord, help me to witness by my words and my deeds. Help me to be good salt and a shining light wherever I am. When my light burns dim, then fuel my flame by your Holy Spirit, that I might be a more effective witness of your forgiveness, your love, and your power. Lord, help me especially to touch the lives of ____(names)______ who need to be cleansed, forgiven, and helped by you. As you use me to reach them, let all good deeds be for your glory, not mine. Amen.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

"N0" to Sin and Temptation

O Lord, let your Spirit dwell in us that we might grow as we meditate on your Word today. Let your Spirit also purify me, that all my doings and life may please you.

Read Psalm 51

Read Matthew 4


We inherit sin, just like King David did. Even when we try our best to live for the Lord, we still fall short. We need to pray regularly that God would "Create in me a clean heart." I enjoy (yes, enjoy is the right word for it) singing this in our worship liturgy. I enjoy it not because of the beauty of the music (though it is beautiful), but because as I sing it, I know God listens, grants forgiveness, renews my heart and spirit, continues to place his Holy Spirit in me, and fills me with the joy (see?) of salvation.

I am thankful for Psalm 51 for this very reason. You see, "Sin is an inheritance, born in us, ever damaging us. None of our works can every set us free from terror, despair, or death. However, God has blotted out even the worst of our sins - adultery and murder - by Jesus' sacrifice." (TLSB, p. 897).

Yes, Jesus is the answer to sin. His forgiveness, and his power. Jesus gives us power to say "no" to sin. We have just asked him to give us a renewed spirit, right? As his redeemed and renewed people we can be like Christ.

Jesus said "no" to sin. He said "no" to the devil. He quoted Scripture back at Satan and refused to fall for any of the devil's tricks. After Jesus passed this time of testing and temptation, he then goes about preaching "repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." He has a right to call humans to repentance because he himself has nothing of which to repent.

Yes, going perfect to the cross, bearing our sin upon himself, paying with blood and death and hell that it might be forgiven, he broke the power of the devil over us. He broke the power of sin. Yes, we now have the power to say "no." And not just that, but it means that as we say "no" to sin, we are also free of its burdensome guilt, free of its negative consequences, free of its dysfunction and despair.

Even in the midst of temptation, even in the midst of sin, even in the midst of the weakness of our sinful nature, we can call out to God asking for a clean heart, and God will rescue, forgive and strengthen. Thanks be to God.

Ask Yourself:

Do I think to pray and ask for help in times of temptation?

Do I know enough Scripture to be able to refer to it in a time trial or temptation?

What can I do today to rely on Christ's strength as I do battle against the devil and his lies?

Pray:

Holy Spirit, create me new again, giving joy for sadness. Have mercy on me, O God, and cleanse me from my sin. Amen. (TLSB p. 897).

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Trees That Bear Fruit

Comments today will focus on our reading from Matthew 3. God's blessings on our study.

Read Psalm 50

Read Matthew 3

John the Baptist warns the Pharisees and Sadducees that God is looking for fruit. Trees that do not bear fruit will be cut down and thrown into the unquenchable fire. God is looking for people who live a godly life and are righteous in words and actions. He is looking for "one who orders his way rightly," as our psalm said.

The problem with the religious leaders of the day is they were putting too much confidence in their man made rules, and also in their bloodline. Because they were "children of Abraham," they thought they were automatically on the right path. John the Baptist, sent by God to prepare hearts, tells them that, no, this is not the case. They are a brood of vipers, headed for judgment.

We don't have the same problem as those religious leaders, but we do have a similar problem. We aren't capable of being righteous on our own. John the Baptist's warning is one that we all need to heed. We need to take a long hard look at our own lives and ask ourselves if we are bearing fruit.

Now, chances are if you are participating in this Bible study, you are a Christian. If so, then you are bearing fruit. If we believe, then we have the Holy Spirit in us, and we do live for the Lord. We serve in many, many ways, in all our various vocations (or callings) in life.

However, we do not bear fruit perfectly, that is, as abundantly as we should. We all have a sinful nature still clinging to us.

That's why Jesus' baptism is crucial for us. Jesus 1) does this to "fulfill" all righteousness. In other words, he is fulfilling the plan of the Father. He is executing it perfectly, doing all things well, staying free from sin, bearing fruit in all he does. That is why the Father is "well pleased" with him.

This baptism is also about us, we must remember. Yes, Jesus was bearing fruit for the Father, but he was doing on our behalf. So we see 2) that Jesus is identifying with sinners, receiving a baptism of repentance (for our sin not ours), and living a perfect life for us. In his baptism, perfect life, death, resurrection, he instituted all waters to be a blessed flood and a lavish washing away of our sins.

Yes, though our sins had been like scarlet, they are now washed away and cleansed in our baptism. This washing is living water for our new life. This living water meets our spiritual thirst so that we can grow and bear fruit, fruit that will last.

Now God sees in us the righteousness that he requires. Now God helps us to say no to sin, to overcome our weakness, and to live for him.

This week, I want to bear fruit for the Lord.

Ask Yourself:

Is there an area of your life where the fruit is not readily visible (that is, you are falling short as a spouse, parent, child, student, or worker)?

What can I do differently this week to bear fruit for God?

What things can I do this week to remind myself that I am baptized into Christ, and therefore have forgiveness and strength for holy living?

Pray:

Pray from your heart today concerning the answers to the questions you just asked yourself.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Magi from the East

Welcome. May God bless our study today.

Read Psalm 49

This psalm is very much like a proverb, filled with sound wisdom, practical application, and good advice. We are encouraged not to trust in riches, and ultimately, in ourselves. If we do, we are like the beasts of the earth without understanding that live for a while and perish. What's more, the sons of Korah declare in this psalm that all who trust in riches will have death as their shepherd. What a vivid image. We might picture the grim reaper leading the flock down to their graves. How sad.

Will you follow the grim reaper? Or will you follow your Savior, who is the Good Shepherd, who leads us to life?

The sons of Korah conclude, "But God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol, for he will receive me" (v 15). Let us also put our trust in the Lord, that he might deliver us from sin, death, and the devil. Let us also not be afraid or be jealous of the wealth of others. It is only temporary. Instead, let us all, wealthy and poor, put our trust in Jesus, that we might all have heavenly treasure that will not fade away.

Read Matthew 2

There are so many surprising things in this text. The visitors are strange. "Magi" have been called "wise men" because they are learned men, but we learn in the book of Daniel where magi also appear that they are "learned" in astrology and magic arts. These are probably more like magicians or sorcerers than they are kings or wise men. Yet somehow they seem to be acquainted from the prophecy that a star will announce the birth of a king of Israel. Perhaps they had heard Numbers 24:17, "I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near; a star shall rise out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel." So Gentiles, even sorcerers, come to give the King of the Jews a gift.

We also see prophecy fulfilled in a few other places. Micah had prophesied that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, and so he was. Jeremiah spoke of a time of great mourning over children, and, sadly, that came to pass too. God had also proclaimed concerning the nation of Israel "Out of Egypt I called my son." He was referring to the nation leaving Egypt in the exodus, but also to his Only Begotten Son, who was really "Israel reduced to one," as one of my professors liked to say. That is, Jesus lived on behalf of Israel, remaining faithful as Israel should have, fulfilled all the prophecies spoken of Israel, and died and rose to redeem Israel.

This includes us. As the New Israel, the Church, we see that the Son of God came to fulfill all these prophesies so that we, whether Jews or Gentiles like the Magi, would find redemption. Our sins are forgiven by him. Yes, as predicted and promised by God through all the Old Testament prophets, this Savior was born in Bethlehem that he might be our Shepherd. Yes, we need not have the grim reaper, we need not have death be our shepherd. But God will rescue us from Sheol. We will rise from our graves, and we will be with him eternally. Thanks be to God!

With that in mind, how should we live for him now?

Ask Yourself:

As an act of worship the Magi gave most precious gifts to the King of Kings. What do I give? Can I give more?

Am I so attached to my earthly treasures, or desire more so much that I find myself trusting in them instead of in the Lord?

Jesus fulfilled prophecy that he might be our Savior from sin. What can I do today to live in thanksgiving that all my sins are cleansed?

Pray:

As with gladness, men of old
Did the guiding star behold
As with joy they hailed its light
Leading onward, beaming bright
So, most glorious Lord, may we
Evermore be led to Thee.

As with joyful steps they sped
To that lowly manger bed
There to bend the knee before
Him Whom Heaven and earth adore;
So may we with willing feet
Ever seek Thy mercy seat.

As they offered gifts most rare
At that manger rude and bare;
So may we with holy joy,
Pure and free from sin’s alloy,
All our costliest treasures bring,
Christ, to Thee, our heavenly King.

Holy Jesus, every day
Keep us in the narrow way;
And, when earthly things are past,
Bring our ransomed souls at last
Where they need no star to guide,
Where no clouds Thy glory hide.

In the heavenly country bright,
Need they no created light;
Thou its Light, its Joy, its Crown,
Thou its Sun which goes not down;
There forever may we sing
Alleluias to our King!


Study with me Monday,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

In the Midst of Your Temple: Human Flesh

Today we continue reading the psalms, but we begin our study of the book of Matthew. It will be interesting to have spent the last 50 days of Genesis anticipating the Messiah, and today we fast forward to when he is born. The time in between we will study later, but now we see our Savior's birth. Not only do we see that Jesus is the Savior, but we also see that he is God. What an amazing plan that produces our salvation! May God bless our study.

Read Psalm 48

"The Lord of heaven and earth makes His abode with humankind, where He is a strong fortress that shatters every enemy. He is, therefore, worthy of all praise, and we rightly 'tell the next generation' (v 13) what He has done. What Mount Zion and temple worship were for ancient Israel, Christ's Church at worship is for us - the place where God mercifully dwells to save by His Word." (TLSB, p. 893).

Yes, in this psalm of praise we rejoice that God is pleased to be present with his people in mercy and love. Yes, we praise him for the means of grace, that he is present in Word and Sacraments.

It is interesting also to have this psalm where we proclaim that God is "in the midst of [his] temple," coupled with Matthew chapter 1, where we see the birth of Immanuel. The word is a title, of course, that describes exactly who Jesus is, "God with us." Yes, the Son of God has chosen a temple of human flesh. He is the presence of God, his glory hidden from human sight for just a little while - hidden now for just a little while that he might fulfill his purpose, but not hidden forever.

Read Matthew 1

Let me offer brief comments on lots of things in this chapter:

1) 5 women are mentioned, and they all raise our eyebrows. Would such women ever be expected to be part of the Messianic line? Tamar who poses as a prostitute to be impregnated by her father-in-law; Rahab, a Gentile and a prostitute; Ruth, a Gentile; Bathsheba, an adulteress; Mary, a virgin. Wow! The Savior has descended from quite an interesting list. This shows that God is patient with sinners, and is gracious to work out good (even salvation!) in spite of sin. It also shows that the Savior has come for all people of all kinds.

2) Verse 17 tells us there have been 14 generations from Abraham to David, 14 from David to the captivity, and 14 from captivity to Jesus. Now the Greek word for "beget" or in the ESV it is translated "became the father of..." does not literally have to mean a literal father/son relationship. It could refer to a grandparent or great-grandparent. So, it is the common belief (especially when compared to other genealogies) that Matthew left some names out to make the theological point that the repeated number of "14 generations" shows God's intentional plan in bringing about our salvation. Please note, however, that Matthew is not being deceptive, and this is not a mistake in the Bible. If we give Matthew room to make his theological point, then we can be content that there were indeed 14 notable generations in each portion of history.

3) Joseph is painted in a very good light by Matthew. Luke focuses on Mary, but here, Matthew shows us that Joseph is righteous, loving, and faithful. He also receives messages from God and follows them. Joseph is an example of faith for all of us.

4) Most importantly, we see that Jesus saves us from our sins, as the angel said. And Jesus is given the name or title "Immanuel." It will be God Himself who will dwell with sinful mankind, and will save them from their sins. Let me rephrase that: Jesus saves me from all my sins. And I have plenty.

This life-giving message fills me with peace and joy. And it makes me look forward to Christmas already at the beginning of November. I love that time of year! God in the flesh, for our salvation!

Ask Yourself:

Do I rejoice that I am able to go to a house of worship and receive good things from God? Do I take this freedom for granted?

Can I take a few moments today to contemplate the mystery of Jesus' incarnation?

What sins to I hand over to my Savior today?

Pray:

"O Holy Spirit, strengthen my faith, and fill me with joy as I reflect on the miracle of Christ's birth" (TLSB, p. 1579).

O come, O come, Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel

Amen.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

The Pride of Jacob

Today we finish the book of Genesis. What a beginning we have had to our study! So rich is the depth and breadth of this incredible book. We probably could have gone only a few verses at a time and still not probed the entire meaning of it. But we have had a good start to our study. We move on to Matthew tomorrow. Switching back and forth will help us to see how Old and New Testaments interact and interpret one another. Most of all, we see that the entire Bible is Christocentric. Jesus is the central focus and meaning. We see that as well today:

Read Psalm 47

This is a short psalm of praise that gives glory to God the Most High, the great King over the universe. This psalm also praises God who chose "our heritage for us, the pride of Jacob whom he loves." This phrase speaks about God's gracious will to choose Israel (the man, Jacob) to be a great nation. God also chose to continue to be with Israel (the nation), and protect it and prosper it. Even when he gives Israel over to destruction for its wickedness, God always protects a remnant, that is, a remaining faithful people who trust him, who receive his gracious promises. Ultimately we see Jesus of Nazareth become the fulfillment of all these promises. He is the pride of Jacob of which Psalm 47 speaks. He, a descendant of Abraham, is also the God of Abraham. May we too give him all glory, laud, and honor.

Read Genesis 50

When Jacob dies, the brothers are very concerned for their own lives. They prove themselves to be repentant, offering themselves to be Joseph's servants. Joseph proves himself to be forgiving and freely provides for them and their offspring. The reconciliation was real, not just faked for Jacob's sake. No, the love of God had flowed through Joseph and healed the family wounds. May we be so motivated to love and forgive.

Jacob dies and is buried in Canaan with great weeping. I think I goofed on an earlier devotion and said that it would be years later at the Exodus that they would carry his bones out. My mistake. Jacob is buried after the embalming process (a royal treatment!). It was Joseph's bones who were carried out of Egypt hundreds of years later. But what a testimony Joseph leaves for Israel's descendants. Like his father he makes them swear that he would not be buried in Egypt. Why? Because they were guaranteed by God they would inhabit the Promised Land. And Joseph believes so strongly that God is true and faithful, he knows his final resting place will be this land, even if it is a long time later that they must carry his bones.

But before Joseph dies (and this makes a great conclusion to Genesis) Joseph also makes this bold confession, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good." God's plan is carried out. And if we are aware that God is active, that God intervenes, and that God is able to bring good out of seemingly evil circumstances, then we can have a greater sense of peace and confidence all throughout life.

So we have a beautiful conclusion to Genesis. God's people look forward to the Promised Land. God's people give thanks that he has worked good even in the face of evil. God's people rely on him in every situation. And the royal, messianic line lives on. The Savior will come...

Ask Yourself:

Why is it so hard for me to trust when I cannot see what God is up to?

Why is it so difficult for me to forgive sin and let it go permanently?

What do I do to show others that I know I will make it to the Promised Land of Heaven?

Pray:

All glory, laud, and honor To You, Redeemer, King,
To whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring.

The company of angels Is praising You on high,
And we with all creation In chorus make reply.

All glory, laud, and honor To You, Redeemer, King,
To whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring.

As You received their praises, Accept the prayers we bring,
O Source of ev'ry blessing, Our good and gracious King.

(LSB 442:2, 5, Public Domain)

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Lion of Judah

Today we hear of our Mighty Warrior, our Valiant One, or Lion, our King of the Universe, Jesus Christ. May God bless our study.

Read Psalm 46

A famous hymn is based on this psalm. We know it was written by Martin Luther. We supplement our Bible study today by focusing also on these words

A mighty fortress is our God, a trusty shield and weapon;
He helps us free from every need that hath us now overtaken.
The old evil foe now means deadly woe; deep guile and great might
Are his dread arms in fight; on Earth is not his equal.

With might of ours can naught be done, soon were our loss effected;
But for us fights the Valiant One, whom God Himself elected.
Ask ye, who is this? Jesus Christ it is.
Of Sabaoth Lord, and there’s none other God;
He holds the field forever.

Though devils all the world should fill, all eager to devour us.
We tremble not, we fear no ill, they shall not overpower us.
This world’s prince may still scowl fierce as he will,
He can harm us none, he’s judged; the deed is done;
One little word can fell him.

The Word they still shall let remain nor any thanks have for it;
He’s by our side upon the plain with His good gifts and Spirit.
And take they our life, goods, fame, child and wife,
Though these all be gone, our vict'ry has been won,
The Kingdom ours remaineth.

Read Genesis 49

"Jacob blesses his sons" is the subtitle of this section. Some of them sound more like curses than blessings. But not Judah's blessing. To Judah the brothers will bow. Judah is a lion. The ruling scepter will not depart from Judah. We also hear about a donkey, wine, blood - all things that would seem random and bizarre if we weren't familiar with the story of Jesus.

But because we are familiar with the account of Jesus, we see that this prophecy is clearly Messianic. From the line of Judah, Jesus is the Eternal King. He is the Lion prophesied here. He vanquishes, he rules, he reigns, he triumphs.

In his death and resurrection Jesus has defeated the devil and his fierce weapons sin and death. Jesus has won the victory. He will bring us safely to our eternal rest. He holds the battle field forever. Praise him forever!

Ask Yourself:

Do I tremble and fear? How do I "be still" and know he is God?

Do I realize that though the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, there is a bigger stronger Lion? Do I rely on Jesus, the Lion of Judah, in times of trouble and temptation?

Can I rejoice that the victory has been won even when I face hardships and loss?

Pray:

Pray from your heart against fear and worry. Ask for peace and strength. Thank Jesus for being your Valiant One.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Gentiles Too!

Welcome! May God bless our study today!

Read Psalm 45

We hear of a bridal procession in this psalm. The bride, the new queen, arrayed in gold is led to the king. The king is gracious and powerful. The bride is beautiful and radiant. Surrounding nations give gifts and rejoice.

Does this description fit David? Does it fit Solomon? Probably in many ways. But because the Bible is Christocentric and Christ is especially found throughout the psalms, we see that ultimately this is a psalm about our King, Jesus Christ. The bride is his people.

"The psalmist uses as royal wedding to portray our King, who is God, and the fulfillment of His kingdom in his Son." The psalmist paints a picture "of this King and this marriage - illustrating Christ and His Bride, the Church." (TLSB p. 891)

We see that the valiant description of the king fits our King Jesus Christ. But does the beautiful and radiant description of the bride really fit us? Not if we are stuck in our sin and unbelief. But thanks be to God that Jesus the King has redeemed us with his own blood. We are cleansed in our baptismal washing. We are adorned in Christ's own righteousness. We are presented to Him as a virgin, that is, as holy, perfect, and pure. Not by our works, but by the King's grace does this happen!

Read Genesis 48

God's ways are not our ways. We see this portrayed as Jacob decides to give the greater blessing to the younger of Joseph's sons. Just as God chose to bless Isaac rather than Ishmael and Jacob rather than Esau, the same things happens to Ephraim and Manasseh. Well, it is a great blessing for both of them. They each would inherit some land in the Promised Land. (Though there are 12 tribes, not 13, the Levites gained no land, so with Joseph receiving a double portion, the land was still divided up into 12 portions).

And indeed, this is an incredible action, that Jacob should treat these boys as his own sons. They have an Egyptian mother, but are adopted into Israel's family.

So too, many of us are not Jewish by birth, but we are adopted into God's family through Holy Baptism. How gracious God is! Though salvation came from the Jewish people, the Savior really came for Jews and Gentiles, male and female, slave and free, and for all people.

We get to pass that Good News on too. Praise God!

Ask Yourself:

What role do I play in sharing the Good News with all nations?

Do I see myself as redeemed, righteous, and beautiful before God because of Jesus, my King?

Do I struggle because God's ways are not always our ways?

Pray:

Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, You who lead Joseph like a flock! You who are enthroned upon the cherubim shine forth. Before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh, stir up Your might and come to save us! Restore us, O God; let Your face shine, that we may be saved! (Psalm 80:1-3).

Study with me tomorrow!

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!

Don't Bury Me in Egypt!

Welcome!

Read Psalm 44

Quote from Luther: "The 44th psalm is a general psalm of prayer in which all saints, especially the New Testament saints, lament that they are persecuted by the heathen and tyrants and would be slaughtered. They cry out that God has given them over to this, as if He had abandoned them. Formerly He had helped them with great wonders, and no harm came to them from persecutions. But now they are now even persecuted on their own account, that is, for God's sake, as if they had done all kinds of evil. In summary, this psalm is the sighing of the spirit." (Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH).

Read Genesis 47

There are a few interesting events in this chapter. One item of special note is that Jacob blesses Pharaoh. In Genesis, the greater always blesses the lesser. Pharaoh must have respect Joseph and Joseph's elderly father, Jacob, because he graciously receives the blessing. We do not hear that he is offended or outraged by the action.

Indeed, we should expect that something like this would have happened, because as the ancestor of Jesus, Jacob really blesses all people.

In fact, think about this: "Just as blessing came to mighty Pharaoh through a lowly shepherd [Jacob], so also the kingdom of God and His righteousness come to believers in humble forms - an infant in a manger, a man dying on a cross; words, water, bread, wine - yet in them are hidden God's majesty" (TLSB p. 88).

Another notable item is that Jacob requests to be buried back in the Promised Land. God had spoken to Jacob/Israel in a dream in chapter 46, telling him, "I myself will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you up again." (46:4) Jacob firmly believes this promise. He believes that the Promised Land will belong to his descendants again. And knowing this, and believing this, Jacob makes Joseph promise that he (or his descendants) will carry his dead bones to be buried in the Promised Land.

What and example of faith! And it is not just Jacob's faith that is amazing. We will see the people of God hundreds of years later actually keeping Joseph's promise as they carry Jacob's bones to the Promised Land.

We too might as well live in the light of God's promises. God has spoken. We do well to listen, to believe, to trust, and to live for his glory.

Ask Yourself:

Do I feel abandoned like the psalmist?

Do I cry out in faith to God, or do I grumble to others?

Is my life reflecting a strong faith in God's certain promises?

Pray:

Lord, our gracious Father, at all times grant us Christian resignation to the order and guidance of Your protective care. Preserve us from discontent under the cross, and from envy against those who enjoy prosperity. Lead us as You will, but when our end comes, take us home to Yourself. Amen.

Study with me tomorrow,

Pastor Jon

Soli Deo Gloria!