I just got back from a busy trip, so sorry I haven't posted any commentary in a while. I hope to have some thoughts ready for tomorrow. But hopefully you kept up with the reading! - for God's Word is living and active, and has great power for strengthening our faith.
For today:
Read Psalm 106:1-23
Read Joshua 13
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Friday, June 25, 2010
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
God's Command and Blessing
Read Psalm 102
"The tears, fever, lost appetite, despair, and doubt in this psalm are eerily identical to what we go through when a personal crisis erupts in our life or a disaster rips through our town or nation. Yet it is written with confident hope because attention is turned to the God who listens to the please of the destitute. When you lament, turn your attention to God's answer to these prayers: Jesus Christ. He stepped into our world and took on our groans and death, restoring confident hope at the appointed time on Easter morning." (TLSB, p. 945).
Read Joshua 8
We might read Joshua 8 and enjoy the brilliant military tactics. It truly was a cunning plan, and the Israelites had Ai (and nearby Bethel) completely fooled. Having suffered one defeat (because of their disobedience) the Israelites feigned defeat again. This time men were lying in ambush and took the city. The men of Ai who had pursued had nowhere to flee when Israel turned and began to fight. They were surrounded. Their city was already burning. It was a brilliant victory for Israel.
No doubt God had given the ability to command an army well. But is it the military tactics that gave Israel the victory? Should we praise Joshua?
No. We won't give credit to man for any victory. Other stories like the story of Gideon will prove that. God doesn't need brilliant tactics, an army of thousands, or fierce weapons. In fact, sometimes we see God win the victory without Israel even having to fire one single arrow. (I look forward to studying that account again!)
Israel won such a sweeping victory because they had the command and blessing of God. And Joshua knew it. That's why when they had won the victory he proceeded to read the entire Law of Moses to the nation. It had little to do with javelins. It had everything to do with Jesus.
Yes, Jesus. Even though they didn't yet know that his earthly name would be Jesus, they knew that a Messiah would come to fully and completely defeat the enemy. In fact, Joshua prefigures this Savior. They have the same name (Joshua in Hebrew, Jesus in Greek). The Law of Moses prophecies this Savior. The victory points forward to him.
And so we too can rejoice that we have victory over sin, death, and the enemy king, the Devil. We don't win with our brilliant military tactics. We don't win by our own doing and strength. But Jesus wins. We are more than conquers through him. He died and rose to bind the enemy. It won't be long until he (Satan) is thrown in the fiery pit for eternity. Thanks be to God, our Savior, Jesus Christ!
And as we go about our daily life, we have God's command and blessing given to us. We respond with faith and obedience. And our victory is sure, just as surely as God has given it.
Ask Yourself:
What spiritual battle do I wage today?
From where does my strength come?
How can I help others in this battle?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning the answers to the questions. Ask God for his strength as you follow his command and enjoy his blessing.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
"The tears, fever, lost appetite, despair, and doubt in this psalm are eerily identical to what we go through when a personal crisis erupts in our life or a disaster rips through our town or nation. Yet it is written with confident hope because attention is turned to the God who listens to the please of the destitute. When you lament, turn your attention to God's answer to these prayers: Jesus Christ. He stepped into our world and took on our groans and death, restoring confident hope at the appointed time on Easter morning." (TLSB, p. 945).
Read Joshua 8
We might read Joshua 8 and enjoy the brilliant military tactics. It truly was a cunning plan, and the Israelites had Ai (and nearby Bethel) completely fooled. Having suffered one defeat (because of their disobedience) the Israelites feigned defeat again. This time men were lying in ambush and took the city. The men of Ai who had pursued had nowhere to flee when Israel turned and began to fight. They were surrounded. Their city was already burning. It was a brilliant victory for Israel.
No doubt God had given the ability to command an army well. But is it the military tactics that gave Israel the victory? Should we praise Joshua?
No. We won't give credit to man for any victory. Other stories like the story of Gideon will prove that. God doesn't need brilliant tactics, an army of thousands, or fierce weapons. In fact, sometimes we see God win the victory without Israel even having to fire one single arrow. (I look forward to studying that account again!)
Israel won such a sweeping victory because they had the command and blessing of God. And Joshua knew it. That's why when they had won the victory he proceeded to read the entire Law of Moses to the nation. It had little to do with javelins. It had everything to do with Jesus.
Yes, Jesus. Even though they didn't yet know that his earthly name would be Jesus, they knew that a Messiah would come to fully and completely defeat the enemy. In fact, Joshua prefigures this Savior. They have the same name (Joshua in Hebrew, Jesus in Greek). The Law of Moses prophecies this Savior. The victory points forward to him.
And so we too can rejoice that we have victory over sin, death, and the enemy king, the Devil. We don't win with our brilliant military tactics. We don't win by our own doing and strength. But Jesus wins. We are more than conquers through him. He died and rose to bind the enemy. It won't be long until he (Satan) is thrown in the fiery pit for eternity. Thanks be to God, our Savior, Jesus Christ!
And as we go about our daily life, we have God's command and blessing given to us. We respond with faith and obedience. And our victory is sure, just as surely as God has given it.
Ask Yourself:
What spiritual battle do I wage today?
From where does my strength come?
How can I help others in this battle?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today concerning the answers to the questions. Ask God for his strength as you follow his command and enjoy his blessing.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Hiding Sin
Read Psalm 101
Read Joshua 7
Who can hide sin from God? Achan thought he could. So did Adam and Eve. But hiding sin from God is about as effective as making clothes out of fig leaves. Did the fig leaves cover up Adam and Eve's nakedness very well? Would those clothes have lasted very long? They certainly couldn't have been comfortable!
Achan thought hiding items under his tent would work. He took some beautiful items, costly items, items that were supposed to be devoted to destruction and kept them. He coveted. He stole. He hid.
But God found out. From this chapter we are severely warned not to sin, and not to hide sin. Indeed, Psalm 101 goes through a list of offenses that God despises: a perverse heart, slander, arrogance, deceit, lies, and all manners of wickedness. God says that he will cut them off and destroy them.
Like Achan, we have coveted. We have committed the sins of Psalm 101 as well. So now what?
Let us not hide our sins from God, but let Jesus hide those sins. We can't cover them up, but Jesus covers them with his blood. We can't remove the guilt, but Jesus can take those sins and guilt and drown them in the depths of the sea, remove them as far as the east is from the west. His blood was shed for our cleansing. We are washed in the blessed flood of baptism. Our sins are covered and removed. Through Jesus we are clean, whole, forgiven, and given new life.
Like Achan, let us confess our sins to God. But let us do it before we are confronted and judged! "If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).
"Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered." (Psalm 32:1).
Thanks be to God, who is merciful and forgiving! I desire to live for him who redeemed me! Amen!
Pray:
Lord Jesus, think on me
And purge away my sin;
From worldly passions set me free
And make me pure within.
Lord Jesus, think on me
Nor let me go astray;
Through darkness and perplexity
Point out Your chosen way.
(LSB 610:1, 4, Public Domain).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Joshua 7
Who can hide sin from God? Achan thought he could. So did Adam and Eve. But hiding sin from God is about as effective as making clothes out of fig leaves. Did the fig leaves cover up Adam and Eve's nakedness very well? Would those clothes have lasted very long? They certainly couldn't have been comfortable!
Achan thought hiding items under his tent would work. He took some beautiful items, costly items, items that were supposed to be devoted to destruction and kept them. He coveted. He stole. He hid.
But God found out. From this chapter we are severely warned not to sin, and not to hide sin. Indeed, Psalm 101 goes through a list of offenses that God despises: a perverse heart, slander, arrogance, deceit, lies, and all manners of wickedness. God says that he will cut them off and destroy them.
Like Achan, we have coveted. We have committed the sins of Psalm 101 as well. So now what?
Let us not hide our sins from God, but let Jesus hide those sins. We can't cover them up, but Jesus covers them with his blood. We can't remove the guilt, but Jesus can take those sins and guilt and drown them in the depths of the sea, remove them as far as the east is from the west. His blood was shed for our cleansing. We are washed in the blessed flood of baptism. Our sins are covered and removed. Through Jesus we are clean, whole, forgiven, and given new life.
Like Achan, let us confess our sins to God. But let us do it before we are confronted and judged! "If we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).
"Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered." (Psalm 32:1).
Thanks be to God, who is merciful and forgiving! I desire to live for him who redeemed me! Amen!
Pray:
Lord Jesus, think on me
And purge away my sin;
From worldly passions set me free
And make me pure within.
Lord Jesus, think on me
Nor let me go astray;
Through darkness and perplexity
Point out Your chosen way.
(LSB 610:1, 4, Public Domain).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Monday, June 21, 2010
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Commander of the Army of the Lord
Read Psalm 99
Read Joshua 5
What should we comment on in Joshua 5? There is so much happening in this chapter! We could talk about circumcision, and how important that was in marking them as heirs of the promise. We could talk about the Passover they celebrated before taking Jericho. Or we could focus on how the manna, which had been give to them 6 days a week for 40 years ceased as soon as the promise that they would enter Canaan came true. Then they ate produce they hadn't planted in a land rich and abundant.
But perhaps today we'll look just briefly at when Joshua met the Captain of the army of the Lord. We must conclude that this "man" is the Lord Himself because Joshua worships and is not told to do so (and angels instruct humans not to worship them, but to worship God). The Lord also tells Joshua to take off his sandals, as the Lord had also instructed Moses from the burning bush.
It is interesting too in what form the Lord appears. He is not in a burning bush this time, but he appears as a warrior, a commander, with a terrible sword drawn. Israel would need God to clear the way for them if they were indeed to inherit the land.
God's response to Joshua is interesting too. Joshua asks if the "man" was on Israel's side or the other side. It seems as if God changes the question around. God does not say, "I'm on your side," but by declaring who he is, God is inviting Joshua to say, "Lord, I am on your side." This Joshua does, if not in those exact words, then with worship and obedience.
Some theologians would argue (and I would agree, though I couldn't say for certain), that this would be the pre-incarnate Christ who appears to Joshua. That is, it is God the Son is the commander and is appearing here.
It would make perfect sense, because Jesus is the ultimate warrior. He engaged the devil head on in a terrible spiritual conflict, and Jesus became the victor. The war is won though battles rage on.
How much more comforted would we be if we could see Jesus our Warrior with sword drawn! How quickly we would bow down and worship! How confidently would we engage in spiritual battle against sin and evil. How encouraged we would be, and certain of the victory!
Though we haven't seen him with our physical eyes, we have seen him with eyes of faith. He is triumphant. He is victorious. He defeats the sin in me this day. I will pass safely through death and He will bring me into the Promised Land of heaven, where I will feast on the abundance and rejoice eternally. Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today, thanking Jesus for the victory, and imploring his help that we might be strengthened to fight the good fight of faith.
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Joshua 5
What should we comment on in Joshua 5? There is so much happening in this chapter! We could talk about circumcision, and how important that was in marking them as heirs of the promise. We could talk about the Passover they celebrated before taking Jericho. Or we could focus on how the manna, which had been give to them 6 days a week for 40 years ceased as soon as the promise that they would enter Canaan came true. Then they ate produce they hadn't planted in a land rich and abundant.
But perhaps today we'll look just briefly at when Joshua met the Captain of the army of the Lord. We must conclude that this "man" is the Lord Himself because Joshua worships and is not told to do so (and angels instruct humans not to worship them, but to worship God). The Lord also tells Joshua to take off his sandals, as the Lord had also instructed Moses from the burning bush.
It is interesting too in what form the Lord appears. He is not in a burning bush this time, but he appears as a warrior, a commander, with a terrible sword drawn. Israel would need God to clear the way for them if they were indeed to inherit the land.
God's response to Joshua is interesting too. Joshua asks if the "man" was on Israel's side or the other side. It seems as if God changes the question around. God does not say, "I'm on your side," but by declaring who he is, God is inviting Joshua to say, "Lord, I am on your side." This Joshua does, if not in those exact words, then with worship and obedience.
Some theologians would argue (and I would agree, though I couldn't say for certain), that this would be the pre-incarnate Christ who appears to Joshua. That is, it is God the Son is the commander and is appearing here.
It would make perfect sense, because Jesus is the ultimate warrior. He engaged the devil head on in a terrible spiritual conflict, and Jesus became the victor. The war is won though battles rage on.
How much more comforted would we be if we could see Jesus our Warrior with sword drawn! How quickly we would bow down and worship! How confidently would we engage in spiritual battle against sin and evil. How encouraged we would be, and certain of the victory!
Though we haven't seen him with our physical eyes, we have seen him with eyes of faith. He is triumphant. He is victorious. He defeats the sin in me this day. I will pass safely through death and He will bring me into the Promised Land of heaven, where I will feast on the abundance and rejoice eternally. Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today, thanking Jesus for the victory, and imploring his help that we might be strengthened to fight the good fight of faith.
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Entering the Promised Land
Read Psalm 97
Read Joshua 3
God has made a promise. He will not take it back. He is finally now bringing the people to the Promised Land of Canaan.
The people have heard the word. Joshua orders a command, and the priests believe and obey. They carry the ark into the water, and the Jordan stops flowing and is divided. they cross over on dry ground, opposite Jericho.
Our gracious God has made a promise to us too. He will not take it back. He has promised us forgiveness, life and salvation through his Son, Jesus Christ.
We have heard this good word of forgiveness. We believe, and we eagerly also obey all of God's commands - not perfectly, but by the power of the Spirit, we do. The way through death to heaven and everlasting life has been opened up. Death has been divided. That Way is Jesus.
This isn't the end of the story for Israel. No, they do not yet have perfect and complete rest. They must conquer the enemy, settle in the promised land, so that the Messiah could be born there, live there, die there, and fulfill the purpose of the land.
Our earthly story isn't over either. We continue to fight the good fight of faith, battle against the devil and all his works and ways. We continue to "hate evil" as our psalm today encourages us.
But someday, thanks to Jesus, we will cross over Jordan to our resting place. And we won't cross over death to face Jericho. We'll cross over to enter our rest, and ultimately, the New Jerusalem.
What a precious gift! How can I not rejoice and cherish it always? How can I not share this Good News?!
Pray:
Jesus, lead Thou on
Till our rest is won;
And although the way be cheerless,
We will follow calm and fearless.
Guide us by Thy hand
To our fatherland.
If the way be drear,
If the foe be near,
Let not faithless fears o'ertake us;
Let not faith and hope forsake us;
For through many_a woe
To our home we go.
When we seek relief
From a long-felt grief,
When temptations come alluring,
Make us patient and enduring.
Show us that bright shore
Where we weep no more.
Jesus, lead Thou on
Till our rest is won.
Heav'nly leader, still direct us,
Still support, console, protect us,
Till we safely stand
In our fatherland.
(LSB 718, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Joshua 3
God has made a promise. He will not take it back. He is finally now bringing the people to the Promised Land of Canaan.
The people have heard the word. Joshua orders a command, and the priests believe and obey. They carry the ark into the water, and the Jordan stops flowing and is divided. they cross over on dry ground, opposite Jericho.
Our gracious God has made a promise to us too. He will not take it back. He has promised us forgiveness, life and salvation through his Son, Jesus Christ.
We have heard this good word of forgiveness. We believe, and we eagerly also obey all of God's commands - not perfectly, but by the power of the Spirit, we do. The way through death to heaven and everlasting life has been opened up. Death has been divided. That Way is Jesus.
This isn't the end of the story for Israel. No, they do not yet have perfect and complete rest. They must conquer the enemy, settle in the promised land, so that the Messiah could be born there, live there, die there, and fulfill the purpose of the land.
Our earthly story isn't over either. We continue to fight the good fight of faith, battle against the devil and all his works and ways. We continue to "hate evil" as our psalm today encourages us.
But someday, thanks to Jesus, we will cross over Jordan to our resting place. And we won't cross over death to face Jericho. We'll cross over to enter our rest, and ultimately, the New Jerusalem.
What a precious gift! How can I not rejoice and cherish it always? How can I not share this Good News?!
Pray:
Jesus, lead Thou on
Till our rest is won;
And although the way be cheerless,
We will follow calm and fearless.
Guide us by Thy hand
To our fatherland.
If the way be drear,
If the foe be near,
Let not faithless fears o'ertake us;
Let not faith and hope forsake us;
For through many_a woe
To our home we go.
When we seek relief
From a long-felt grief,
When temptations come alluring,
Make us patient and enduring.
Show us that bright shore
Where we weep no more.
Jesus, lead Thou on
Till our rest is won.
Heav'nly leader, still direct us,
Still support, console, protect us,
Till we safely stand
In our fatherland.
(LSB 718, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Grace on Sinners
Read Psalm 96
Luther: "The 96th psalm is a prophecy of the kingdom of Christ in the world, in which should be nothing but joy and praise. The text is, truly, itself clear enough. In it, all the nations, lands, peoples, forests, seas, trees are called to worship. They should praise and thank the Lord because He judges and rules with righteousness and truth. That is, He delivers us from sins and all that sin brings with it, such as death, hell, the power of the devil, and all that is evil. This is the new song of the new kingdom from new creatures, from a new people, not born of the Law or works but born of God and Spirit. These are nothing less than miracles, done in Christ Jesus, our Lord." (Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH)
Read Joshua 2
What a gracious God we have who is pleased to rescue totally corrupt sinners. Think of Rahab as proof. God could have delivered Jericho to Israel in any number of ways. But in the process, God (who seems to find great joy and whimsical delight in defeating the Devil with a flick of his finger) decides to rescue a prostitute.
Indeed, the spies find her and decide to lodge at her house. They keep themselves pure of immorality, of course, but what outsiders would be suspicious? They are used to seeing men go into her house.
But these men are not there for the usual reasons. They are here to spy out the land and the people. Rahab agrees to hide them and show kindness to them. She throws the pursuers off the scent. She confides in the spies that the people of Jericho are melting in terror. This is the beginning of God's judgement on the wicked city.
But it is the beginning of God's salvation of Rahab and all of her family who will believe her message concerning the One True God. Indeed, we will see the family saved. And we know that Rahab the prostitute is not only given her physical life, but she also has the great honor and privilege of being included in the ancestry of her descendant and Savior, Jesus. Yes, Matthew lists her in his genealogy.
Her physical life was spared. By becoming part of the nation of Israel (and presumably a firm believer in Yahweh, the One True God who rescued her) she was also given eternal salvation. And what's more, she gets married and bears a son, a son who would carry on the Messianic line, a son, Boaz, from whom eventually would come the Son of Man and Son of God, Jesus.
Amazing.
It is God's great joy and delight to rescue sinners, even sinners like us. It is his joke on the Devil. A good joke, the best kind of joke. Hell hath no furry, the devil no power, sin no fierce terror for those who are in Christ Jesus, the Savior.
Thanks be to God! What an honor and privilege to be a descendant of Jesus (spiritually speaking), to walk in his ways, and to honor him with holy living!
Ask Yourself:
What sins confront me and cause me guilt today?
How does Jesus overcome that sin? (and don't stop at the Sunday School answer!)
How will I rejoice in God's salvation today?
Pray:
"We praise You, Lord, that You call people of all kinds out of the darkness of their sin and haunting fears into the light and safety of Your grace. Amen." (TLSB, p. 343).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Luther: "The 96th psalm is a prophecy of the kingdom of Christ in the world, in which should be nothing but joy and praise. The text is, truly, itself clear enough. In it, all the nations, lands, peoples, forests, seas, trees are called to worship. They should praise and thank the Lord because He judges and rules with righteousness and truth. That is, He delivers us from sins and all that sin brings with it, such as death, hell, the power of the devil, and all that is evil. This is the new song of the new kingdom from new creatures, from a new people, not born of the Law or works but born of God and Spirit. These are nothing less than miracles, done in Christ Jesus, our Lord." (Reading the Psalms with Luther, CPH)
Read Joshua 2
What a gracious God we have who is pleased to rescue totally corrupt sinners. Think of Rahab as proof. God could have delivered Jericho to Israel in any number of ways. But in the process, God (who seems to find great joy and whimsical delight in defeating the Devil with a flick of his finger) decides to rescue a prostitute.
Indeed, the spies find her and decide to lodge at her house. They keep themselves pure of immorality, of course, but what outsiders would be suspicious? They are used to seeing men go into her house.
But these men are not there for the usual reasons. They are here to spy out the land and the people. Rahab agrees to hide them and show kindness to them. She throws the pursuers off the scent. She confides in the spies that the people of Jericho are melting in terror. This is the beginning of God's judgement on the wicked city.
But it is the beginning of God's salvation of Rahab and all of her family who will believe her message concerning the One True God. Indeed, we will see the family saved. And we know that Rahab the prostitute is not only given her physical life, but she also has the great honor and privilege of being included in the ancestry of her descendant and Savior, Jesus. Yes, Matthew lists her in his genealogy.
Her physical life was spared. By becoming part of the nation of Israel (and presumably a firm believer in Yahweh, the One True God who rescued her) she was also given eternal salvation. And what's more, she gets married and bears a son, a son who would carry on the Messianic line, a son, Boaz, from whom eventually would come the Son of Man and Son of God, Jesus.
Amazing.
It is God's great joy and delight to rescue sinners, even sinners like us. It is his joke on the Devil. A good joke, the best kind of joke. Hell hath no furry, the devil no power, sin no fierce terror for those who are in Christ Jesus, the Savior.
Thanks be to God! What an honor and privilege to be a descendant of Jesus (spiritually speaking), to walk in his ways, and to honor him with holy living!
Ask Yourself:
What sins confront me and cause me guilt today?
How does Jesus overcome that sin? (and don't stop at the Sunday School answer!)
How will I rejoice in God's salvation today?
Pray:
"We praise You, Lord, that You call people of all kinds out of the darkness of their sin and haunting fears into the light and safety of Your grace. Amen." (TLSB, p. 343).
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Strong and Courageous
Having finished the book of Deuteronomy, we continue on with the book of Joshua. Here we see the children of Israel finally enter the Promised Land and begin to conquer the enemy!
Read Psalm 95
Read Joshua 1
Wow! I don't need that I need to comment too much. Our readings today are full of comfort, encouragement, and hope. God is with Joshua and Israel wherever they go. Therefore, Joshua (and Israel) should take courage, be brave, and be strong in the Lord's might. We know those promises are extended to us as well.
This Word of God is preserved for us as well. Be strong. Take courage. God is with us wherever we go. His Spirit has been given to us, and we are therefore encouraged to remember that we are in Christ and he is in us. There is nowhere we can go to be apart from him. Therefore we confess our sin, rejoice in the forgiveness he gives us through the cross, and face our day with joy, peace, and confidence.
There is much reason to sing and make a joyful noise to God, as Psalm 95 says.
Oh come, let us worship and bow down!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today, giving thanks to God for all of his goodness!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria
Read Psalm 95
Read Joshua 1
Wow! I don't need that I need to comment too much. Our readings today are full of comfort, encouragement, and hope. God is with Joshua and Israel wherever they go. Therefore, Joshua (and Israel) should take courage, be brave, and be strong in the Lord's might. We know those promises are extended to us as well.
This Word of God is preserved for us as well. Be strong. Take courage. God is with us wherever we go. His Spirit has been given to us, and we are therefore encouraged to remember that we are in Christ and he is in us. There is nowhere we can go to be apart from him. Therefore we confess our sin, rejoice in the forgiveness he gives us through the cross, and face our day with joy, peace, and confidence.
There is much reason to sing and make a joyful noise to God, as Psalm 95 says.
Oh come, let us worship and bow down!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today, giving thanks to God for all of his goodness!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria
Monday, June 14, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
Planted in the House of the Lord
Read Deuteronomy 32
Read Psalm 92
Luther helps paraphrase Psalm 92 for us:
"The 92nd psalm is a psalm of comfort that extols God's Word as the most highly exalted and precious gift against the false saints, whom it attacks. They certainly flower for a time, glorious and powerful, but finally they perish. However, the righteous will remain forever. Although they come to an old age, they shall yet never be old, but they will become young daily through God's Word, which always conveys fruit and new growth. But fools neither consider nor understand these things, as we also see today in our own time." (Reading The Psalms with Luther, CPH).
And we see this in our time too! Everything is treasured by our society except the Word of God. But we know better. And what an encouragement we find in this psalm. Sometimes we feel old, tired, worn out. We feel frustrated, unfulfilled, unhappy. We are disgusted by the success of evil people. We long to see justice done.
But here we are reminded that we baptized children of God who dwell in the Word are constantly refreshed. We are made to be fruitful, because we are connected to Jesus Christ, the Vine who feeds and nourishes us and gives us new life. Even in old age, we can show the fruits of faith, and live in love, proclaim the Lord, pray, praise, and give thanks. We can trust and hope and truly thrive!
Thanks be to God, that we sinners are forgiven through the cross of Christ, and are full of life. We are not dried up and dead, but we are green and full of sap!
So, enlivened by God's grace, let us live for him this day!
Ask Yourself:
When do I feel dried up and dead?
What does God do to change that around? What can I do to be more regular in the Word?
What fruits of faith will God grow in me this day?
Pray:
My faith looks up to Thee,
Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine.
Now hear me while I pray;
Take all my guilt away;
O let me from this day
Be wholly Thine!
My Thy rich grace impart
Strength to my fainting heart;
My zeal inspire!
As Thou hast died for me,
Oh, may my love to Thee
Pure, war, and changeless be,
A living fire!
(LSB 702:1-2, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 92
Luther helps paraphrase Psalm 92 for us:
"The 92nd psalm is a psalm of comfort that extols God's Word as the most highly exalted and precious gift against the false saints, whom it attacks. They certainly flower for a time, glorious and powerful, but finally they perish. However, the righteous will remain forever. Although they come to an old age, they shall yet never be old, but they will become young daily through God's Word, which always conveys fruit and new growth. But fools neither consider nor understand these things, as we also see today in our own time." (Reading The Psalms with Luther, CPH).
And we see this in our time too! Everything is treasured by our society except the Word of God. But we know better. And what an encouragement we find in this psalm. Sometimes we feel old, tired, worn out. We feel frustrated, unfulfilled, unhappy. We are disgusted by the success of evil people. We long to see justice done.
But here we are reminded that we baptized children of God who dwell in the Word are constantly refreshed. We are made to be fruitful, because we are connected to Jesus Christ, the Vine who feeds and nourishes us and gives us new life. Even in old age, we can show the fruits of faith, and live in love, proclaim the Lord, pray, praise, and give thanks. We can trust and hope and truly thrive!
Thanks be to God, that we sinners are forgiven through the cross of Christ, and are full of life. We are not dried up and dead, but we are green and full of sap!
So, enlivened by God's grace, let us live for him this day!
Ask Yourself:
When do I feel dried up and dead?
What does God do to change that around? What can I do to be more regular in the Word?
What fruits of faith will God grow in me this day?
Pray:
My faith looks up to Thee,
Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine.
Now hear me while I pray;
Take all my guilt away;
O let me from this day
Be wholly Thine!
My Thy rich grace impart
Strength to my fainting heart;
My zeal inspire!
As Thou hast died for me,
Oh, may my love to Thee
Pure, war, and changeless be,
A living fire!
(LSB 702:1-2, Public Domain)
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Angels
Read Psalm 91
Read Deuteronomy 31
Psalm 91 is a psalm of great comfort. In it we are given many promises from God that he will protect, he will deliver, he will save.
It is also filled with great imagery. We picture God covering us with his wing, as a mother bird protects its young. We hear of a shield and a buckler, and we are reminded that we have offensive and defensive gear for our spiritual battle.
And in this psalm, we also hear of angels. This is a mighty comfort to us. We sometimes like to refer to our "guardian angel," as if we have one assigned to us for life. And that may be the case! But how the angels are organized and how they share duties, and if the angels ever rotate posts or stick with one person for life, well we don't know any of that. But that's not important. In the Bible God doesn't tell us everything he could tell us. But he does tell us that which we need to know for salvation and also that which we need to know for our comfort.
The guardian angel idea probably comes from this verse where it sounds like angels attend us through all of life, never leaving, always protecting. Indeed, they "guard us in all our ways."
Now, Jesus teaches us when he is tempted in the wilderness by the devil that this verse does not mean we should deliberately do stupid and sinful things (like throw ourselves off the pinnacle of the temple!) But, should we find ourselves in a place of danger we can trust our Almighty and Powerful God and believe that he has his holy, fiery servants watching over us.
It truly is a comforting thought!
I encourage readers today (if they desire) to post a comment telling of a time they are convinced of Divine intervention in their life. When has God sent an angel to protect you? Obviously always, been has there been a dramatic moment where you have given God special thanks and praise?
Pray:
Gracious God, we give you thanks and praise for your unfailing love! You have given us life, all that we need for this body and life, and you still take care of us. You have given us new life in your Son Jesus Christ, and we became your family in baptism. In addition, you have given your angels to have charge over us, to protect us in all our ways. Thank you for your tender mercies. May your Spirit guide me in wisdom and love this day, and may your angels watch over us waking or sleeping. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Deuteronomy 31
Psalm 91 is a psalm of great comfort. In it we are given many promises from God that he will protect, he will deliver, he will save.
It is also filled with great imagery. We picture God covering us with his wing, as a mother bird protects its young. We hear of a shield and a buckler, and we are reminded that we have offensive and defensive gear for our spiritual battle.
And in this psalm, we also hear of angels. This is a mighty comfort to us. We sometimes like to refer to our "guardian angel," as if we have one assigned to us for life. And that may be the case! But how the angels are organized and how they share duties, and if the angels ever rotate posts or stick with one person for life, well we don't know any of that. But that's not important. In the Bible God doesn't tell us everything he could tell us. But he does tell us that which we need to know for salvation and also that which we need to know for our comfort.
The guardian angel idea probably comes from this verse where it sounds like angels attend us through all of life, never leaving, always protecting. Indeed, they "guard us in all our ways."
Now, Jesus teaches us when he is tempted in the wilderness by the devil that this verse does not mean we should deliberately do stupid and sinful things (like throw ourselves off the pinnacle of the temple!) But, should we find ourselves in a place of danger we can trust our Almighty and Powerful God and believe that he has his holy, fiery servants watching over us.
It truly is a comforting thought!
I encourage readers today (if they desire) to post a comment telling of a time they are convinced of Divine intervention in their life. When has God sent an angel to protect you? Obviously always, been has there been a dramatic moment where you have given God special thanks and praise?
Pray:
Gracious God, we give you thanks and praise for your unfailing love! You have given us life, all that we need for this body and life, and you still take care of us. You have given us new life in your Son Jesus Christ, and we became your family in baptism. In addition, you have given your angels to have charge over us, to protect us in all our ways. Thank you for your tender mercies. May your Spirit guide me in wisdom and love this day, and may your angels watch over us waking or sleeping. Amen.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Number Our Days, Establish Our Work
Read Psalm 90
Read Deuteronomy 30
If I could give a rough paraphrase of our psalm today, I would say that Moses (yes, Moses wrote this psalm) is encouraging us to consider our mortality, the short amount of time we have in this life, and make the most of our time.
But Moses gives us much more than a motto. He's not just saying carpe diem, that is, "Seize the day! Do your best. Enjoy life at its fullest. Don't forget to be, to breathe, to live! Enjoy every moment. Spend your time on what is really important." - not that those phrases are necessarily bad, but together they give us a piece of advice that is incomplete on its own.
...and deadly on its own. Moses doesn't just tell us to "live like we're dying." No, Moses goes deeper than that. He prays that God would establish the work of our hands. This prayer in the mouth of a humble believer is not a request that God would bless whatever it is that we want to do. Rather, this is a prayer that God would help us to do that which really matters and will last.
Doesn't sound different from the secular advice? Well it really is. When we are doing what God would have us do, then we are doing what really matters. When we are doing the tasks that God has given us, then we are engage in works that are lasting, deep, good, meaningful, and purposeful. When our time is given to God, then we are making the most of our time.
Let's do more than "seize the day" or "live like we're dying." Those are good and helpful phrases to the Christian only if we realize that seizing the day is seizing opportunities to live according to God's will, and that we should die to sin, live for the Lord, and keep our eyes on eternity.
Luther has encouraged us to consider our mortality everyday. A simple way to do this is to rise every morning, make the sign of the cross, and remind ourselves that we are baptized "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." We know that we die to sin, and we then belong to God. We are his. And the Good News is that though we struggle to truly make our days count, the Father forgives us freely through his Son, Jesus, and strengthens us by his Spirit to be renewed again and strengthened again.
And that is an encouraging thought.
Ask Yourself:
It's not fun to consider my own mortality, but how could it help me?
What things is God doing through me that the work of my hands might be established?
How can I do that better/more?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today, asking for wisdom, guidance, and strength to live for God's glory in the time that we have.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Deuteronomy 30
If I could give a rough paraphrase of our psalm today, I would say that Moses (yes, Moses wrote this psalm) is encouraging us to consider our mortality, the short amount of time we have in this life, and make the most of our time.
But Moses gives us much more than a motto. He's not just saying carpe diem, that is, "Seize the day! Do your best. Enjoy life at its fullest. Don't forget to be, to breathe, to live! Enjoy every moment. Spend your time on what is really important." - not that those phrases are necessarily bad, but together they give us a piece of advice that is incomplete on its own.
...and deadly on its own. Moses doesn't just tell us to "live like we're dying." No, Moses goes deeper than that. He prays that God would establish the work of our hands. This prayer in the mouth of a humble believer is not a request that God would bless whatever it is that we want to do. Rather, this is a prayer that God would help us to do that which really matters and will last.
Doesn't sound different from the secular advice? Well it really is. When we are doing what God would have us do, then we are doing what really matters. When we are doing the tasks that God has given us, then we are engage in works that are lasting, deep, good, meaningful, and purposeful. When our time is given to God, then we are making the most of our time.
Let's do more than "seize the day" or "live like we're dying." Those are good and helpful phrases to the Christian only if we realize that seizing the day is seizing opportunities to live according to God's will, and that we should die to sin, live for the Lord, and keep our eyes on eternity.
Luther has encouraged us to consider our mortality everyday. A simple way to do this is to rise every morning, make the sign of the cross, and remind ourselves that we are baptized "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." We know that we die to sin, and we then belong to God. We are his. And the Good News is that though we struggle to truly make our days count, the Father forgives us freely through his Son, Jesus, and strengthens us by his Spirit to be renewed again and strengthened again.
And that is an encouraging thought.
Ask Yourself:
It's not fun to consider my own mortality, but how could it help me?
What things is God doing through me that the work of my hands might be established?
How can I do that better/more?
Pray:
Pray from your heart today, asking for wisdom, guidance, and strength to live for God's glory in the time that we have.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Sorry, no comments from me today. I always make them a day ahead and schedule them to post, but I'm out of time now since Blogger was down for a little bit. Now that it is working here are the quick links for today's readings (and hopefully I'll have comments for Wednesday's reading):
Read Psalm 89:38-52
Read Deuteronomy 29
Read Psalm 89:38-52
Read Deuteronomy 29
Monday, June 7, 2010
Finally, Blogger is working again! I haven't been able to make a post yesterday or today until now. (Sorry we're kind of behind). Here are the readings that were for today (Monday)
Read Psalm 89:1-37
Read Deuteronomy 28
Read Psalm 89:1-37
Read Deuteronomy 28
Saturday, June 5, 2010
To You, O Lord, I Cry
Having finished the book of Luke, we'll resume reading our psalms along with another chapter of the Bible. We'll continue the book of Deuteronomy. So for today, we are to...
Read Psalm 88
Read Deuteronomy 27
In Deuteronomy 27 we read of certain curses for disobedience. We'll say more about blessings and curses on Monday, but for today a brief word to point out that the Law curses, even damns, all of us.
I have heard people wonder how they can break the curse. They think that because they face problems, sicknesses, troubles and trials of all kinds that God is dealing great punishment upon them. The problem is, these folks are Christian, and they believe that Jesus has saved them.
And it doesn't seem to help much to say, "No, you are not cursed," because their conscience convicts them of sin (even if the sin is not directly causing the suffering), and because they feel horrible and wonder why God has allowed, or even caused, these trials.
Psalm 88 cries out a desperate and terrible (yet holy!?!) complaint against God. It accuses God of causing all kinds of suffering on the individual. The psalm is very helpful in teaching us how to pray when suffering. It doesn't pull any punches. No holds are barred. And it doesn't try to offer any kind of theological treatise to explain how suffering fits into God's plan. It simply cries out.
The Law curses us. And in our human experience we often feel under a curse. Yet verse 13 of the psalm is striking. It is unexpected, surprising, and astonishing. "But I, O LORD, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you." The psalmist still cries out to his Heavenly Father anyway. In the depths of his heart and soul, he is convinced that God is love, and that God will save. So he cries out.
Jesus cried out like that. When he was suffering the curse in our place on the cross, when he was abandoned by his Father to suffer hell for us, he yet cried out in faith. It was a desperate and terrible cry, "Why have you forsaken me?", yet it was still a cry of faith, an appeal to the Father's goodness. And ever trusting, Jesus finally cries, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit."
We can be assured that the curse is lifted for us. When we suffer, we may not know the reasons. We certainly won't "enjoy" it. But we can cry out our complaint to God, trusting him, praying to him, asking for forgiveness, healing, help, and strength. Yes, though we suffer, we know that the Father gives us that which we ask. So we can be sure that we are not cursed, but blessed with God's grace.
Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today for those who are suffering and for yourself when you go through struggles. Pray for forgiveness, help, healing, provision, strength - whatever it is that you need.
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Psalm 88
Read Deuteronomy 27
In Deuteronomy 27 we read of certain curses for disobedience. We'll say more about blessings and curses on Monday, but for today a brief word to point out that the Law curses, even damns, all of us.
I have heard people wonder how they can break the curse. They think that because they face problems, sicknesses, troubles and trials of all kinds that God is dealing great punishment upon them. The problem is, these folks are Christian, and they believe that Jesus has saved them.
And it doesn't seem to help much to say, "No, you are not cursed," because their conscience convicts them of sin (even if the sin is not directly causing the suffering), and because they feel horrible and wonder why God has allowed, or even caused, these trials.
Psalm 88 cries out a desperate and terrible (yet holy!?!) complaint against God. It accuses God of causing all kinds of suffering on the individual. The psalm is very helpful in teaching us how to pray when suffering. It doesn't pull any punches. No holds are barred. And it doesn't try to offer any kind of theological treatise to explain how suffering fits into God's plan. It simply cries out.
The Law curses us. And in our human experience we often feel under a curse. Yet verse 13 of the psalm is striking. It is unexpected, surprising, and astonishing. "But I, O LORD, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you." The psalmist still cries out to his Heavenly Father anyway. In the depths of his heart and soul, he is convinced that God is love, and that God will save. So he cries out.
Jesus cried out like that. When he was suffering the curse in our place on the cross, when he was abandoned by his Father to suffer hell for us, he yet cried out in faith. It was a desperate and terrible cry, "Why have you forsaken me?", yet it was still a cry of faith, an appeal to the Father's goodness. And ever trusting, Jesus finally cries, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit."
We can be assured that the curse is lifted for us. When we suffer, we may not know the reasons. We certainly won't "enjoy" it. But we can cry out our complaint to God, trusting him, praying to him, asking for forgiveness, healing, help, and strength. Yes, though we suffer, we know that the Father gives us that which we ask. So we can be sure that we are not cursed, but blessed with God's grace.
Thanks be to God!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today for those who are suffering and for yourself when you go through struggles. Pray for forgiveness, help, healing, provision, strength - whatever it is that you need.
Study with me Monday,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Watch. Pray.
Read Deuteronomy 24
Read Luke 22
I may have posted this hymn before, but I thought it very fitting for our meditation today. Jesus prays ardently in the garden, but the disciples slumber. In yesterday's reading, Jesus encouraged us to "Stay awake!" Of course, Jesus means much more than physical waking or sleeping. Though the disciples slumbered in the garden that evening, they certainly were watchful and vigilant after Jesus had died, rose, ascended, and given them the Spirit that they might be about the work given them to do. Let us also be alert, on guard, awake, vigilant, sober-minded, and working carefully for the Lord. And all the while, we defend against temptation.
The hymn helps us this endeavor. Lord we ask that you would strengthen us to do as the hymn says:
Amen!
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Luke 22
I may have posted this hymn before, but I thought it very fitting for our meditation today. Jesus prays ardently in the garden, but the disciples slumber. In yesterday's reading, Jesus encouraged us to "Stay awake!" Of course, Jesus means much more than physical waking or sleeping. Though the disciples slumbered in the garden that evening, they certainly were watchful and vigilant after Jesus had died, rose, ascended, and given them the Spirit that they might be about the work given them to do. Let us also be alert, on guard, awake, vigilant, sober-minded, and working carefully for the Lord. And all the while, we defend against temptation.
The hymn helps us this endeavor. Lord we ask that you would strengthen us to do as the hymn says:
Rise, my soul, to watch and pray, from thy sleep awaken;
Be not by the evil day unawares be taken.
For the foe, well we know, oft his harvest reapeth,
While the Christian sleepeth.
Watch against the devil’s snares lest asleep he find thee;
For indeed no pains he spares to deceive and blind thee.
Satan’s prey oft are they who secure are sleeping
And no watch are keeping.
Watch! Let not the wicked world with its power defeat thee.
Watch lest with her pomp unfurled she betray and cheat thee.
Watch and see lest there be faithless friends to charm thee,
Who but seek to harm thee.
Watch against thyself, my soul, lest with grace thou trifle;
Let not self thy thoughts control nor God’s mercy stifle.
Pride and sin lurk within all thy hopes to scatter;
Heed not when they flatter.
But while watching, also pray to the Lord unceasing,
He will free thee, be thy Stay, strength and faith increasing.
O Lord, bless in distress and let nothing swerve me
From the will to serve Thee.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Stay Awake
Read Deuteronomy 23
Read Luke 21
Jesus' discourse here is very apocalyptic in nature. He is warning his followers of the coming destruction of Jerusalem that we know was indeed fulfilled in 70 A.D. He is also warning all who would follow him after that time to watch for the end - the real end of the world, his second return.
It sounds scary enough - wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes, famine, pestilence. We see these today, and we could add hurricanes, floods, fear of nuclear war from North Korea and Iran. We have a thousand other cares and concerns, fears and frights. Jesus even tells his followers that we should expect not to be well liked by the world. Some of us will even be handed over to death. Indeed, though we in the United States don't often have to worry about being executed for our Christian faith, we do, in fact, see this happening to this day in more hostile parts of the globe. (Let us always pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters!)
But then, right after Jesus prophesies that some of us will be killed, he says something curious - "Not a hair of your head shall perish." But, we are being put to death! Hmm...It sounds like a contradiction. But Jesus is assuring us of the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. We endure in the faith, and by that endurance our lives will be gained, that is, our eternal life.
So, Jesus encourages us at the end of this chapter to stay awake! Are we spending too much time drinking and living it up? (Maybe that's not a question we want to ask ourselves after Memorial Day weekend!) Are we spending too much time worrying about all the material cares of this life? Are we plodding along every day without a thought toward eternity? Are we so busy with the tasks of this life that we forget that Jesus is returning and bringing his judgment with him?
Not that we who continue to repent of our sins need to fear the judgment (because Jesus suffered it for us on the cross), but mindful of that coming judgment on all humanity, we need to be doing the work that has been given us to do.
So, being sober minded, awake, mindful of what is Godly, and anticipating Christ's return, we live as if the end could come any time. Even if it is 1,000 years from now, we ought to live as if his return was imminent. He has given us work to do, that we should live a holy life for his glory, bring up our families in the Christian faith, and reach out with the Good News to those around us.
And at the last, we shall see our Redeemer, and rejoice!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today for your persecuted brothers and sisters, and for yourself, that you might live a God pleasing life in the time you have left.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
Read Luke 21
Jesus' discourse here is very apocalyptic in nature. He is warning his followers of the coming destruction of Jerusalem that we know was indeed fulfilled in 70 A.D. He is also warning all who would follow him after that time to watch for the end - the real end of the world, his second return.
It sounds scary enough - wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes, famine, pestilence. We see these today, and we could add hurricanes, floods, fear of nuclear war from North Korea and Iran. We have a thousand other cares and concerns, fears and frights. Jesus even tells his followers that we should expect not to be well liked by the world. Some of us will even be handed over to death. Indeed, though we in the United States don't often have to worry about being executed for our Christian faith, we do, in fact, see this happening to this day in more hostile parts of the globe. (Let us always pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters!)
But then, right after Jesus prophesies that some of us will be killed, he says something curious - "Not a hair of your head shall perish." But, we are being put to death! Hmm...It sounds like a contradiction. But Jesus is assuring us of the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting. We endure in the faith, and by that endurance our lives will be gained, that is, our eternal life.
So, Jesus encourages us at the end of this chapter to stay awake! Are we spending too much time drinking and living it up? (Maybe that's not a question we want to ask ourselves after Memorial Day weekend!) Are we spending too much time worrying about all the material cares of this life? Are we plodding along every day without a thought toward eternity? Are we so busy with the tasks of this life that we forget that Jesus is returning and bringing his judgment with him?
Not that we who continue to repent of our sins need to fear the judgment (because Jesus suffered it for us on the cross), but mindful of that coming judgment on all humanity, we need to be doing the work that has been given us to do.
So, being sober minded, awake, mindful of what is Godly, and anticipating Christ's return, we live as if the end could come any time. Even if it is 1,000 years from now, we ought to live as if his return was imminent. He has given us work to do, that we should live a holy life for his glory, bring up our families in the Christian faith, and reach out with the Good News to those around us.
And at the last, we shall see our Redeemer, and rejoice!
Pray:
Pray from your heart today for your persecuted brothers and sisters, and for yourself, that you might live a God pleasing life in the time you have left.
Study with me tomorrow,
Pastor Jon
Soli Deo Gloria!
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