Martin Luther's Evening Prayer: Recent Episodes
Dr. Richard Zeile
"An Unchanging Faith for Changing Lives" describes the message of God for us in the turmoil of the 21st Century. This faith is taught at St. John's Lutheran Church of Taylor, Michigan, and other congregations of the Lutheran church-Missouri Synod. Rev. Dr. Richard Zeile, Pastor at St. John's, applies the Word of God to our everyday experiences. God's LAW always accuses, but God's GOSPEL shows where grace can be found, through Jesus Christ who died for our sin, but rose that we may have eternal life.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the early 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the early 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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After the Te Deum hymn "Holy God We Praise Thy Name", Dr. Zeile speaks on Christ's teaching that we are to render temporal things to Caesar (the government), and spiritual/eternal obedience to God. The Kingdom of God transcends time and place, and yet the state has coercive power because of human sin, to curb crime and encourage civil righteousness. Then follows the Communion Rite, and a closing hymn of prayer, "God Bless our Native Land."
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This dramatic message is addressed to the Apostle who betrayed Jesus. After elements of the Holy Thursday service (the confession, introit, reading from I Corinthians 12 and John 13) follows this address which is meant for us to learn from the bitter experience of the disciple who died in despair and self-loathing.
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After the classic morning hymn, "Christ Whose Glory fills the Skies", corporate confession, introit, collect and reading from Hebrews 7, Dr. Zeile points out the political implications of Bartimaeus' call to the Son of David, and the part this played in Jesus' crucifixion. The imploring hymn, O Lord Hear my Prayer" concludes this meditation.
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After Psalm 25 and the Kyrie, Dr. Zeile meditates on the Attachments that hinder our following Christ, an invitation for honest self-examination, based on the Mark 10 account of the rich young man who wanted eternal life but could not let go of his wealth. the Nicene Creed and the classic hymn "Thee will I Love, My Strength, My Tower" are included.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the early 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the early 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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This message, preached at St. Stephen Lutheran, Dickson City, PA (April, 2026) describes the Apostolic formulae for living in a sinful world by grace of God. The Rite of Holy Communion, as celebrated by Pastor Peter Richert follows.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the early 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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Based on the bumper sticker, "Born once, die Twice: Born twice, die once," Dr. Zeile explains the teaching of Apostle Peter which declares our need to be born again to an eternal life which Christ' death and resurrection provides for us. Luke 24, the Nicene Creed, the Communion rite and a hymn are included.
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This meditation on the shortest verse of the Bible explores why the Lord who knew He would raise Lazarus weep nevertheless. The Confession and Assurance precede the message, and it is followed by a noteworthy bell choir performance by members of Dtroit's Outer Drive Faith Lutheran Church.
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Dr. Zeile explains the idea of atonement from the Old Testament idea of paying compensation to right a relationship, and the price paid by Christ in blood. Psalm 11 and the Magnificat, Kyrie, and Lord's Prayer from Vespers (Evening Prayer) accompany the sermon, and the Italian hymn, "Glory Be to Jesus" is sung.
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Dr. Zeile meditates on John's assertion that Isaiah foresaw the gory of Christ, as both sacrifice for sin, and as victor over death. The Easter season Communion Rite is included, and a selection from the St. John's Taylor Bell Choir.
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In this episode, Dr. Zeile unpacks the Scriptural phrase "Borne of the Spirit" which can be translated as "carried by the wind" to point out that the Holy Spirit's work in us is continuous, and God-directed. After the hymn, God Loved the World so that He Gave," and the sermon, the Te Deum Laudamus from Matins is sung, followed by the Athanasian Creed, Kyrie, and Lord's Prayer, from the service for the Feast of the Most Holy Trinity.
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This message for the Feast of the Holy Trinity, based on Jesus' claim that the Father and the Spirit are witnesses to His divinity, is accompanied by the Athanasian Creed and the Te Deum Laudamus, both 7th Century writings in praise of the God who reveals Himself through Christ. the Hymn "He is Surely Coming" is also included.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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After the reading from Acts 11, Dr. Zeile gives an exposition of of I Corinthians 12, Paul's teaching about gifts of the Spirit, pointing out the ways, often overlooked, the Spirit manifests in the Christian congregation. This message will help ordinary believers discern the manifestation of the Holy Spirit as distinct from other spirits. The hymn, "O God of Mercy," and Nicene reed follow, and the episode concludes with the Brief Confession & Communion, with the Common Doxology.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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Portions of the Whitsunday (Pentecost) service begin this program: Acts 2 reading, the Sequence hymn Veni Creator Spiritus (Come Holy Ghost Creator Blest) is sung as the Gospel (John 7) is read in German, English, and Latin to recall the gift of tongues, and the sermon on how Pentecost undoes the curse of Babel is delivered by Dr. Zeile. The program concludes with Luther's Pentecost hymn, "Come Holy Ghost, God and Lord."
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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After a reading from Exodus 24, Dr. Zeile preaches the fulfillment of the Old Testament type (foreshadowing) of the High Priest in Jesus' offering of Himself so that He can be our 'intercessor at the Right Hand of God. The recent hymn, "No Temple Now, No Gift of Price," concludes this celebration of the benefits Christ won for us.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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Dr. Zeile discusses what it means to have a relationship with Jesus, based on truth and commitment rather than on feelings or familiarity. After the hymn "Father Welcomes All His Children," the meditation is delivered, and the Nicene Creed confessed, responsive prayer (the Litany) is offered. The final hymn is "Father Most Holy."
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
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The homily on Christ as the Second (and greater) Moses includes the introit, creed, general prayer, and three hymns: "Angels from the Realms of Glory," "O Come, Emmanuel," and "How Sweet the Name of Jesus."
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Was it right for the woman, unclean from her flow of blood, to touch Jesus? It was a moment of moral ambiguity which we all face sooner or later. Dr. Zeile's discussion of this delicate topic is accompanied by elements of the Communion service (sometimes called the Mass):Introit, Creed, General Prayer (a prayer for all in general), and the Communion rite itself, and the hymn "For All Your Saints."
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Dr. Zeile's meditation on the power of God's Word to bring the world into being, and awaken sinners from the dead is accompanied by Psalm 77 and a portion of Psalm 118, the celebration of Holy Communion, and the hymn based on thr Phos Hilarion, "O Gladsome Light."
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This meditation on the climax of Psalm 22 ("My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?") points out God's regard for the afflicted throughout the Old Testament, and the affliction like no other by Jesus, a man like no other. Because God regards Jesus' affliction, we have forgiveness and life, and an assurance in our every affliction that God cares for us. Classic Hymns, "Evening and Morning," and "Tell Out My Soul" (based on the Magnificat) flank this message.
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In the historic lectionary, both Palm Sunday and the First Sunday in Advent have the Gospel Matthew 21:1-9. Dr. Zeile's message points out the meaning of the word Hosanna which calls upon God to "Save now!" and reflects on what we need to be saved from, and when. This sermon is preceded by the Blessing of the Advent Wreath, Romans 13, and the Venite (Psalm 95) from Matins, and concludes with the Benedicamus. The classic Advent hymn, "Come Thou Precious Ransom, Come" is also sung.
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After the Martin Franzman hymn, "Thy Strong Word", Dr. Zeile discusses the message from God given in Isaiah 58 about fasting, a message very suited to Lent, the Christian fast season. In addition to some historical context and perspective, the sermon focuses on what makes any work acceptable to God, the right or saving relationship with Him offered through Christ who fasted for us. The Offertory (Psalm 51) and General Prayer follows with the celebration of Holy Communion (at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Toledo, OH).
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After the classic 17th century hymn, "Thee Will I Love," Dr. Zeile discusses the invitation received by the wealthy young ruler in Mark 10 who balked at forsaking his wealth to follow Jesus. In principle, we have received the same invitation and must be ready to let all our temporal blessings go when God requires, as sooner or later we must. In the meantime we are to use our gifts in God's service, which we can only do by faith, the gift God gives. the General Prayer follows the message and another classic hymn, "Draw Us to Thee."
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After a responsory, collect, and Psalm 30, Romans 10 is read by an elder, and the hymn, "O Christ who Called the Twelve", is sung. Then Dr. Zeile speaks on Mark 1:14-20, the urgency of Christ's message regarding the Kingdom (rule) of God, which comes to us now but will not always be open to us.
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Boredom, like anger, is an experience, not a sin, but it can set us up for temptation. Dr. Zeile's message based on Israel's experience in the wilderness alerts us to the folly that awaits those who cannot "wait upon the Lord." After Psalm 146, Luther's hymn on the Lord's Prayer is sung ("Our Father Thou in Heaven Above"), then the sermon; afterward the Nicene Creed is confessed, followed by the Kyrie and prayers. Finally, the canticle, "Christ has been Raised" concludes the program.
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One of the painful experiences of the 21st Century is REJECTION by those who know us best. It is sobering to reflect on the fact that Jesus Christ shared this painful experience, alienation from those He loved. This sermon is accompanied by readings of Nehemiah 8 and 1 Corinthians 12, Psalm 19, and the hymn "O Christ our True and Only Light." Confession & Absolution, the Kyrie, Gloria and collect prayer precede the message.
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This meditation for Transfiguration Sunday is accompanied by Psalm 121, a General Prayer (prayer for blessing in general, for all in general, as opposed to particular requests for particular persons), and Transfiguration hymns, "Jesus on the Mountain Peak," and the western-sounding "Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory."
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Abram was given a new name, Abraham, because he found a new identity as a father of many nations (peoples). Dr. Zeile's meditation on this promise shows how it is fulfilled in our day (3 billion people today look to him as a Father), and that through the baptism commanded by Christ we, too, are given a new identity as children of God, heirs of the Promise first given to Abraham. Psalm 103 accompanies this message, as well as the celebration of Holy Communion, and the classic Lutheran hymn, "Baptized into Your Name Most Holy."
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We often regard rules negatively as restricting our freedom; yet God's Law enables us to accomplish things we could not achieve before, just as rules make activities from chess to driving possible. Dr. Zeile's meditation brings out God intended blessing to us through His rules, and His remedy for those of us who have failed to keep them.
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This message on the Foolishness of God being wiser than man's wisdom is accompanied by Matthew 15, the Nicene Creed, and a choir singing "Dona Nobis Pacem" ("give us peace").
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This A Capella service begins with the contemporary hymn, "Only a Holy God," then Continues with readings from 1 Corinthians, Psalm 27, and Matthew. Dr. Zeile's meditation concerns the painful truth that family members, particularly adult children, may reject the faith. In this situation we are invited to imitate Jesus' love for the lost, He who died even for those who would eventually reject Him. Luther's hymn, "A Mighty Fortress" concludes the program with its assertion, "Let these all be gone...the Kingdom ours remaineth!"
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After the beginning of Evening Prayer (Vespers), this message, suitable for the New Year, explains the new life Christians are called to live, not by their own power but by Christ. The classic hymn, "The Advent of our King," and a choir anthem are included.
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This service for New Year's Eve begins with prayers entitled "Devotion to the Holy Infancy," Psalm 8, and the homily on the meaning of the name Jesus, meaning "Savior" and its two aspects, that of rescue and the other of healing. Hymns, "Infant Holy, Infant Lowly" and Longfellow's translation of "Oh, How Blessed" are also included.
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This Christmas episode includes reading of the Christmas Gospel, Luke 2, interspersed with hymn or choir selections. Dr. Zeile's meditation on Psalm 126 brings out the Gospel quality of being so much better than we could imagine.
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In the 6th of the series on Seven Deadly Sins Dr. Zeile discusses the psychological need to hoard things and to put our trust into material possessions which will pass away. This was preached on Holy Thursday and parts of the service are included including the confession and the Gospel reading of Judas objecting to the expensive oil used to anoint Jesus due to Judas' own avarice.
In this 4th in a series on Seven Deadly Sins, Dr. Zeile speaks frankly of the social, psychological, and spiritual damage this temptation has wreaked upon modern society where people have been exploited and rejected by those who have known them intimately. The Lenten Passion reading, Elements of Vespers/Evening Prayer, and special prayer directed toward this temptation accompany this meditation.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
This is the third message in Dr. Zeile's Lenten series on the Seven Deadly Sins. In addition to elements of Evening Prayer (Vespers) are included the classis hymn, "Thousand, Thousand Thanks Shall Be," and Dr. Zeile's own hymn on the Deadly Sins.
This is 2nd in Dr. Zeile's series on the Seven Deadly Sins, often called "Capital" sins, not because they are worse than other sins but because they are the sources or motivations for sinful acts. Dr. Zeile explains the deadly aspect, in natural terms, of gluttony, a sin primarily of the body. Accompanied by elements of Evening Prayer, a hymn composed for the deadly sins is included, as well as the Passion reading from Lent which serves as the basis for the message.
This begins a series on the 7 Deadly Sins: Sloth, Gluttony, Wrath, Lust, Avarice, Envy, and Pride. Dr. Zeile's meditation on this, the "deadest" of the deadly sins includes elements of Evening Prayer (Vespers), and the Passion reading from Lent.
This message is based on the Psalmist's prayer which was fulfilled for all believers at Pentecost. Dr. Zeile's sermon is accompanied by the Confessional rite, Introit, Gloria in Excelsis, a reading from Acts 2 and the classic medieval hymn, Come Holy Ghost."
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation
Abram was promised a son, and waited for God to provide. When Abram fretted about this God gave him a new name, "Abraham" meaning "Father of Many." That this childless old man should take on this name was a testimony before the world that Abraham believed God. Dr. Zeile applies this episode to believers who bear the name of "Christians" and are witnesses to the world.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
"Who is a God Like Ours?" asks the prophet Micah. This prompts a meditation on how the revealed faith of Christ differs from some of the major religions in the world and popular in the secular West. Dr. Zeile shows that the common belief that all religions believe basically the same is deeply mistaken, and how the unique religion of Christ is essential for an authentic relationship with the Divine.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
This message, delivered for the Festival of Saints Peter & Paul, addresses the Office of the Keys, the authority of the Pastoral Office (or Office of the Holy Ministry). Many Protestants believe that pastors' only authority is human-bestowed and can be taken away by human institutions, but the Biblical doctrine is that Christ Himself appointed men to be pastors and gave them authority. Dr. Zeile's exposition is accompanied by the noted hymn "By All Your Saints in Warfare for all Thy Saints at Rest," and station collects for each of the saints celebrated.
A Lenten midweek service begins a series on the Seven Deadly Sins. The first, Sloth or Laziness, is the deadest of the deadly sins, as Dr. Zeile explains in his meditation.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
This meditation was from a series entitled "Objects of the Passion" for Wednesday evening services in Lent. The palm, often associated with oriental royalty (picture the slave waving the palm branch to create a breeze for the sitting king), recalls Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem where He was acclaimed king and then crucified for being king. Readings from Jeremiah 10, Psalm 118, and Psalm 92 from Vespers accompany this homily as well as the hymn, "Ride on in Majesty."
This Ash Wednesday message confronts us with the fact of death and its meaning, which shows our need for the Savior who suffered and died for us. The classic Luther hymn based on Psalm 130 ,"From Depths of Woe I Cry to Thee," is included as well as the Ash Wednesday celebration of Holy Communion.
Dr. Zeile's message reflects on the burden given to young Samuel who had to speak of God's judgment against the house of Eli the priest, Samuel's own foster father. The message is accompanied by a hymn inspired by the story, "Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens,: and the common of the Antecommunion (Confessional rite, introit, Kyrie, Gloria, collect).
After the Antecommunion (also called the Service of the Word, anciently the Service of the Catechumens) which includes Confessional rite, Introit, Kyrie, Gloria in Excelsis and collect, Dr. Zeile shares a meditation on the traffic jam that occurred at Nain where the multitude following the Lord of life confronted the procession of burial. The Nicene Creed and the hymn of consolation, "If Thou But Suffer God to Guide Thee" are also included.
The Litany is prayed in procession, an ancient prayer imploring God for every blessing temporal and spiritual. Dr. Zeile's message reflects on the varieties of experience in Mark's brief account of a few days in Jesus' early ministry and how typical this is of human experience in general. Truly God has entered our condition! The St. Columba hymn "Christ is the World's redeemer," and a brief celebration of Holy Communion follow.
While some have taken the "tribulation" in Revelation to singular, pertaining to the generation that will witness the Parousia (Christ's Return in Glory) and speak of THE Great Tribulation, Revelation 7 speaks of "These are those who have come out of great tribulation..." As Dr. Zeile explains, every generation of Christians experiences tribulation, and should expect this. This further means that we see ourselves as those who have "made our robes white in the blood of the Lamb." In our death we will pass immediately to judgment meaning that the Bible's message of Christ coming for us in our life-time is true for every generation. This message is accompanied by Confession and Absolution and the celebration of Holy Communion, and the classic hymn of praise, "Praise the Almighty."
Matins, the Church's morning prayer based on the Psalms is presented in this program including the Sunday Psalm 95 Venite and the canticle Te Deum Laudamus. Dr. Zeile's meditation discusses the power for healing and peace that flowed from Jesus to others through His physical touch and how He touches us through Word and Sacrament today. The hymn "Son of God Eternal Savior" is included.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner Revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Dr. Zeile points out that certain aspects of Elisha's death point to the sacrificial death of Jesus the Christ. For one, the name "Elisha" means "God is my Salvation." Portions of the Good Friday liturgy of Tenebrae accompany this meditation, including the choral selection "Gross Darkness," as well as the strepidus conclusion. The classic hymn based on a St. Bernard text "O Sacred Head Now Wounded," and the Good Friday hymn "O Perfect Life of Love" are part of this program.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims version.
Mark's Gospel presents Jesus as a man of action, and the events presented in his first chapter of Jesus' activities on a Sabbath in Galilee are instructive for us, as Dr. Zeile explains in this meditation. Included are Psalm 113, a reading from James 3, and the hymn, "Lamb of God."
Dr. Zeile presents St. Paul's instructions to the Corinthian Church, a seaport notorious for its sex trade. The particular nature of sexual sin, that it affects the body and becomes part of the individual, presenting memories that invite the sinner to repeat, if only in his heart, the sin. Furthermore the ambiguous nature of sin leading to swings from pride to shame is also confusing to those who have no clear understanding of objective moral standards which God, in His mercy, has given to guide those who sincerely want to live right with God and neighbor. Corporate Confession & Absolution, an Act of Adoration, and the hymn "Take My Life and Let it Be Consecrated Lord to Thee" are included in the program, as is the Lutheran classic, "Jesus Priceless Treasure."
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims version.
After the John 2 account of the wedding at Cana where Christ performed His first miracle of turning water into wine, the children's choir sings "Father I Adore You." Dr. Zeile explains the Christian understanding of marriage declared by Christ, "That the two (male & female) become one flesh" for the life of the partners. It is a truth and ideal very difficult to live up to. The instruction is followed by the hymn of hope, "The King Shall Come when Morning Breaks."
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims version.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims version.
After the rehearsal of the Decalog (Ten Commandments), Confession of sins, and Kyrie, Dr. Zeile discusses the role of signs and wonders in the early Church and whether they are a part of our life today. The favorite hymn "I've Got Peace like a River" concludes the episode.
After a choral anthem, "Christ is Risen from the Dead," Dr. Zeile shares the perpsective of those followers of Jesus on the first easter where the resurrection came as a complete, unbelievable surprise. The Rite of Adult Confirmation and classic Easter hymns, "I Know that My Redeemer Lives," "With High Delight Let Us Unite," and Palestrina's "The Stride is O'er, the Battle Done" complete this program.
Bells, the hymn "Jesus Has Come and Brings Pleasures Eternal," Confession with Absolution, the Introit, collect prayer, and Isaiah 55 reading leads into Dr. Zeile's meditation on the evil spirit who attacked a boy. The apostles were unable to cast it out and Christ explains that only by prayer (that is, relying on God to cast it out) is all we can do. In Christ that is enough! The hymn "Praise the One who Breaks the Darkness" completes this meditation.
Why does Jesus sometimes tell people to be silent about Him? What's He hiding? Dr. Zeile's meditation on the Messianic Secret explains the Church's understanding, and its relevance in the life and witness of the believer. The hymn "Before Jehovah's Awe-ful Throne," the Suffrages, and the ancient Fortunatus hymn "Sing My Tongue" are included in this episode(
Dr. Zeile meditates on the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus and reflects on the experience of regret.
In this Librivox recording Dr. Zeile reads Psalm 27 in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims version.
Mark describes Christ's ministry on the fringes of the Jewish settlements and of the fact that those who touched the fringes of His garment received power. The Lord's reach beyond the familiar, safe, or conventional is the subject of Dr. Zeile's meditation. This is accompanied by the Rite of Confession, the Kyrie and Collect Prayer, the hymn "O God Forsake Me Not," and the Communion distribution with Post-Communion Prayer.
Dr. Zeile reads from the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Authorized Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Dr. Zeile reads from the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Authorized Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Dr. Zeile's meditation on the Woman who touched Jesus' garment and found healing points to the power of the Gospel in creating faith, and the importance of connecting with Jesus to receive the Spirit for faith and healing. This message is accompanied by parts of a Service of Prayer & Preaching, Lamentations 2, Psalm 121, and Luther's hymn "In the Midst of Earthly Life Snares of Death Surround Us."
Dr. Zeile reads from the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Authorized Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Solomon realized that he had some big shoes to fill as successor to King David. When God appeared to him in a dream and invited him to make any request, Solomon asked for wisdom, an understanding heart, in order to serve God's people. Free from the conceit and self-centeredness that keeps so many from wisdom, Solomon was blessed with additional gifts, notably a secure throne, wealth, fame, and peace. Dr. Zeile's message on this is accompanied by the Litany on the Name of Jesus, Nicene Creed, and the hymns "O Jesus So Sweet" (setting by J.S.Bach) and the ancient "From God the Father."
Dr. Zeile reads from the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Authorized Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
After confession & absolution, Introit, Kyrie, collect, a reading from Hebrews is a meditation on Jesus' teaching regarding what to give up and what is to gain by the kingdom (rule) of God in your life. The classic hymn "Jesus Priceless Treasure" concludes the worship section of the program.
Dr. Zeile reads from the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Authorized Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Dr. Zeile expounds Ezekiel's vision of the valley of dry bones, pointing to the Divine work of the Spirit of God, "the Lord and Giver of Life," as the Nicene Creed declares. This is followed by the Ash Wednesday Communion celebration and the hymn, "Who Knows when Death will overtake Me?"
Dr. Zeile reads from the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Authorized Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Dr. Zeile reads from the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Authorized Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Sometimes the truth is embarrassing. Sometimes the possibilities are unthinkable. Sometimes we can't accept what we've been told, so we are afraid to ask. Dr. Zeile discusses Jesus' disciples' reticence to confront the truth- that God's plan entails suffering and death. But in that confrontation, victory is promised through resurrection. But you have to die first. This meditation, fitting for the eve of Lententide is accompanied by the hymns of comfort "God Loved the World so that He Gave," and the Swedish favorite "Children of the Heavenly Father." The program concludes with the Communion rite.
This Christmas service begins with Matthew 1 and the carol "Away in a Manger," then follows confession and absolution. The sermon hymn is "Thy Works, Not Mine," and the message points out God's gracious plan top save sinners through the giving of His Son, a plan whose completion He foreknew, a plan that we can count on. The program ends with the Last Gospel (John 1) and the singing of a hymn version of the Phos Hilarion and Silent Night in both English and German.
This Advent service begins with the hymn, "Come Thou Long-expected Jesus," the penitential rite, Kyrie, collect, Psalm 126, 1 Thessalonians 5, and John 1:6-8,19-28. Then Dr. Zeile gives a meditation on the image "Clothed in Salvation," what Paul means when he urges us ti "put on Christ." this is followed by the hymn Hark a Thrilling Voice is Sounding."
Dr. Zeile's meditation on Christ's compassion on the lost reviews how the phrase "Sheep without a Shepherd" was used earlier in the Old Testament and what it means to us who wander in a confusing world. The Apostles' Creed and hymn, "The King of Love My Shepherd Is," are included in the program.
After the hymn based on John 3:16, Dr. Zeile discusses legalism. Often mistaken for an unfeeling application of law, it also encompasses the manipulation of the law through arbitrary definition or casuistry so that it reflects the will of men rather than the will of God. By imagining that they could manipulate the law so as to excuse themselves but not others, Jesus' opponents were guilty of a form of idolatry. This meditation is followed by a brief celebration of the Sacrament of Holy Communion in which Christ gives His broken body and shed blood for the forgiveness of our failure to live by God's law.
After corporate Confession, introit, and Kyrie, Dr. Zeile explains the meaning of "ransom and the grim background of "redemption" in Hebrew history. The Israelites were vulnerable to raiders through much of their history who would pillage the farm and kidnap the farmers, especially the children. The family would appoint a kinsman redeemer to search out the slave markets to buy back family members. This powerful story lay behind Christ's description to His disciples of what He would do for humankind enslaved to sin. This message is followed by the classic 17th century hymn "Come Follow Me," a general prayer, and the offertory "What Shall I render to the Lord for all His Benefits to Me?"
After the hymn "Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus," and the Nicene Creed, Dr. Zeile discusses the theme of the two paths through life, one which leads to God and eternal life, and the other which leads to self-regard and death. This is followed by the hymn "Draw Us to Thee," a prayer for God's power which only can deliver us from the wrong path, and then prayers and canticle from the Service of prayer & Preaching.
The end of the year is a time to reflect on what happened. What about regrets? Moses and Israel had regrets and Dr. Zeile's meditation on this theme is accompanied by the opening bells of the service, a classic pietist hymn "Jesus Lead Thou On", the Decalog (Ten Commandments), readings from Ephesians 4 and John 6, and ends with the hymn "I am Trusting Thee, Lord Jesus."
What is in a name? It is the identity of the person. In the case of Jesus, it is the name that means "Savior" and no other name saves. This is why Christmas historically is a big deal. God Himself came into our world so that the world might be healed and so that people could have union with God. Dr. Zeiule's meditation is preceded by the Deacon's litany with its response of Kyrie Eleison ("Lord, Have Mercy!"), and followed by the celebration of Holy Communion in the Lutheran Rite.
The Blessing of the Advent Wreath, Kyrie, Collect, and readings from Isaiah 64 and Mark 11 accompany Dr. Zeile's message on this theme of waiting for the promise to be fulfilled. St. Ambrose classic hymn, "Savior of the Nations, Come" is also included.
In the season of Advent (which means "arrival"), we meditate on the Three Advents which pertain to Past, Future, and Present. Christ came in the past in fulfillment of the Old Testament promises of the Messiah, and we celebrate this on Christmas. Christ has promised to come in the future to judge the living and the dead. But in the present Christ comes to believers in His Word and Sacrament. He is a Savior who transcends time and therefore all three perspectives require our attention. Dr. Zeile's meditation is accompanied by the classic Swedish hymn, "Prepare the Royal Highway," the Magnificat and general prayers from Vespers,
At the Palm Sunday entrance into Jerusalem, Jesus was greeted by the crowd who acclaimed Him "Son of David." The pharisees were in despair, telling each other "The whole world has gone after Him!" They were seeing the future, a future hidden by the cross but revealed in the resurrection. God's triumph in Christ may be veiled to our eyes now, but His victory is assured. Dr. Zeile's message is accompanied by the Rite of Palms, a reading from Zechariah, and the classic Lutheran hymn, "A Lamb goes Uncomplaining Forth."
When Elijah was at the nadir of his fortunes, fleeing for his life and alone in the desert, God sent an angel to give him bread and water which were divine food that enabled him to travel 40 days to Horeb, (or Sinai) where God had revealed Himself to Moses. In the Body and Blood of Christ given in Holy Communion, God gives us an even more potent food which enables eternal life! This meditation is accompanied by the hymn, "Lord Jesus Christ, Thou Living Bread," the Apostles' Creed, and the Communion liturgy.
John wanted to stop those who cast out devils in Jesus' name because they were not of their group. Jesus said that those who are not against Him are for Him, and cautioned against allowing loyalty to a group cancel the kindness or respect we owe to others. This is relevant in our day to what some have called "Tribalism." Dr. Zeile's careful discussion distinguishes what is praiseworthy and what is sinful in group loyalty and gives guidance for believers in these confusing times. Psalm 124, the hymn "Where Charity and Love Abound" (the Holy Thursday hymn Ubi Caritas), and a prayer for our country accompany this timely message.
In this reflection, Dr. Zeile discusses the reasons Christ taught in parables, in part to reveal, and in part to conceal. The Nicene Creed and Communion rite accompany this message.
The woman with a flow of blood had heard the Gospel- that Jesus had power of God to heal and love of people who suffered- and acted boldly. Only she knew her uncleanness but she confessed when Jesus asked. Faith that reaches out to Jesus overcomes our sin! This meditation is accompanied by elements of the Service of Prayer and Preaching, and the classic Luther hymn, "In the Midst of Earthly Life," based on Via Media chant which includes the Trisagion.
Dr. Zeile's message reflects on John the Baptist's call to confront the reigning monarch on his adulterous marriage. He notes that Jesus' supported but did not make Himself part of John's mission, for He had a differing call (and more important work). Nevertheless, It shows the Christian's duty to influence the political world for the common good, even if perfection in a fallen world is not to be expected before the final judgement. The message is accompanied by the Offertory "What shall I render to the Lord?", the hymn, "For All Thy Saints in Warfare by all thy Saint at Rest," and a prayer for All Saints',
This meditation on the stilling of the storm points out the parallel of Christ and Jonah who each slept through a storm at sea, and who each gave himself up for others. The hymn "Guide Me o Thou Great Redeemer" and the Navy Hymn, along with Isaiah 24 and the Magnificat are included.
On Easter evening Jesus appeared to His disciples in the upper room, causing them to doubt what was real. Dr. Zeile discusses the relationship between the very real spiritual and material worlds, and the mastery of both by the Son of God who reached into the material world to rescue us. This message is accompanied by the celebration of Holy Communion, a choal anthem "Praise to the Risen Lord," and the hymn, "We Know that Crist is Risen from the Dead."
Beginning with the spiritual, "Go Tell It on the Mountain," this meditation on Galatians 4 ponders Paul's words about the "fullness of time." Dr. Zeile discusses the difference between the Greek words, and the insights of the Greek father Eusebius whose treatise, "The Preparation for the Gospel" identified elements of God's providence in establishing the Roman peace, the system of roads, and Greek as a common language in the Empire and beyond so that the good news of Jesus might be spread to many peoples around the world. The program concludes with the Last Gospel, the reading of John 1, accompanied by "Silent Night."
This meditation on Psalm 89 reflects the on the parallels between this song of David and the description of the Angel host that greeted the birth of the Son of David on Christmas morning. Matins for the Sunday after Christmas includes Isaiah 61, Galatians 4, and Psalm 111. The American classis "O Little Town of Bethlehem" is sung to the Ralph Vaughan Williams tune, and the Andreas Hammerschmidt classic, "O Rejoice, Ye Christians, Loudly."
The Five Wounds of Christ traditionally are the two in the hands, the two in the feet, and the spear wound in the side. In the series at St. John's we choose to meditate on the Crown of Thorns (small wounds on the Head of Christ) and one meditation on the two feet. This is a Lenten Vespers (Evening Prayer) service which includes Psalm 80, Genesis 3 (the curse of the Fall into sin), the Nicene Creed, and Gerhard's famous hymn based on a poem of St. Bernard, "O Sacred Head, Now Wounded."
A hymn, "This Joyful Eastertide" begins the program, followed by Ephesians 5 and Psalm 136. Then Dr, Zeile speaks on the Apostle John's looking back on what Jesus said and did to present the "Big Picture" of what God has done for us in Christ and what our way forward is. The Appalachian hymn "What Wondrous Love is This?" and a General Prayer follow this message.
This meditation for Lenten Vespers, the Wednesday evening service Lutherans attend during the penitential season that precedes Easter, is part of a series on the Five Wounds of Christ. Psalm 22 is prayed, a reading from Job 10, and the classic hymn, "Upon the Cross Extended are part of this program. The expected portions of Vespers, the Magnificat, collects, and Lord's Prayer are included along with the hymn, "Not All the Blood of Beasts."
This is part of a Lenten series of meditations on the Five Wounds of Christ, though the two feet and the two hands are combined into two meditations, and the Scourged Back and Crown of Thorns are included to make of the five meditations. In the present Vespers service Psalm 22, the Magnificat, and classic Lenten hymns are included: Jesus in Thy Dying Woes, Stricken Smitten, and When I Survey the Wonderous Cross.
Many Christians fail to take St. Paul's teaching seriously when he describes us as "dead" in sin, and try to claim some power for human choice, as if the difference between the saved and the unsaved is that the saved are "more deserving." As Dr. Zeile explains, this leads to pride over fellow men, and ultimately against God. This message is accompanied by a reading from John 3, the Nicene Creed, and the hymn, "Today Thy Mercy Calls Us."
We often think that having "favorites" is unfair, but Dr. Zeile's meditation on John 15 shows how each of us is invited to be a recipient of God's favor. Acts 10, Psalm 98, and Luther's hymn, "Dear Christians One and All Rejoice" accompany this message.
Dr. Zeile's message for the Sunday after Easter is based on the "Doubting Thomas" account and the reality of transcendent things. The meditation is preceded by the hymn, "We Know that Christ is Risen," and followed by the Nicene Creed, a choral anthem "Praise the Risen," and the celebration of Holy Communion concluding with the 18th Century Te Deum hymn, "Holy God We Praise Thy Name."
Using the concept of form versus function, Dr. Zeile explains what Christ's body has in common with the temple in Jerusalem, namely the presence of God among men. Psalm 116, a catechetical recitation and a celebration of Holy Communion are included in the program, and the hymn "This New Year of Grace."
The Program begins with the Collect for the Ascension, and then continues with Dr. Zeile's exposition of Peter's doctrine that we live in a wicked world against which we must be on guard lest it carry us away unawares, and when Christ's victory is revealed at the end we find ourselves on the losing side. The Communion Celebration for the Ascension follows the message, a feast of victory for our God.
This program begins with the John 20 account of "Doubting Thomas," followed by the contemporary hymn, "These Things did Thomas Count as Real." Then Dr. Zeile discusses what the people in Isaiah's prophecy were waiting for versus what individuals today are waiting for, and how this relates to the New Testament teaching that we walk by faith rather than by sight. The Easter hymn of faith, "I Know That My Redeemer Lives" (tune "Duke Street"), follows and the Nicene Creed and closing collect & blessing bring this devotion to an end.
Dr. Zeile reads Psalm 71, first in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer version, then in the 17th Century King James Version, and finally in the 18th Century Challoner Revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Dr. Zeile reads Psalm 73 out of the 16th Century English Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James translation, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rhiems translation.
Dr. Zeile reads Psalm 72, first in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer version, then in the 17th Century King James Version, and finally in the 18th Century Challoner Revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
After the hymn "Arise O Christian People" and the reading of Isaiah 12, Psalm 148 is prayed and Dr. Zeile unpacks the idea of superficial religion that is mistaken for the real thing, especially by the practitioners! This followed by Luther's hymn on the Lord's Prayer with its plea, "Teach us to mean the words we say and from the inmost heart to pray." A collect for peace so that we may do God's will unhindered concludes the worship program.
After the canticle based on Revelation 7, "This is the Feast of Victory for Our God", Dr. Zeile speaks on the hopeless situation of Ezekiel 34- not only were the people dead but their bones were dry and scattered. Yet by the Lord's command bones came together, sinews grew upon them, skin grew over them and wind/breath came into them giving them life. Death is the most hopeless situation we face but God has promised to deliver us from eternal dying to unending life. The Te Deum Laudamus canticle follows this message, and the prayers called suffrages and a final hymn, "Jesus Lives, the Victory's Won" (Jesu Meine Zuversicht).
Dr. Zeile speaks on the connection between spirits and disease, and the role of prayer (asking God) in dealing with all aspects of our maladies. The contemporary hymn, "Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness" and the Te Deum Laudamus in Anglican chant accompany this message.
Dr. Richard Zeile reads Psalm 31 first in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer wording, then in the 17th Century King James Authorized Version, and then in the 18th Century Challoner Revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Paired with this funeral meditation on the shortness of life is the third nocturn of the Good Friday Tenebrae service including Psalms 71 & 51, a portion of the Passion reading, a choral antiphon, and the classic hymn for the burial of Christ, "O Darkest Woe."
Dr. Zeile reads Psalm 18 first in the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer version, then in the 17th Century King James Version, and finally in the 18th Century Challoner Revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
These excerpts from the Palm Sunday service begin with Psalm 116, the Entry account from Luke 19, the ancient hymn for Holy Week, "Sing, My Tongue," and lead to the sermon on Zechariah's promise of the advent of the Christ, which entry in time is a type or foreshadowing of the Messiah's return on the Last Day, a day of joy for those redeemed by His suffering.
Dr. Zeile's meditation for the Easter Sunrise service points out the good news that God prepares in spite of human chaos. Parts of the Easter liturgy are included.
Dr, Zeile's meditation for the evening of Holy Saturday reflects on the "warnings" we sometimes experience in light of the fears that prompted Jesus' enemies to seal and guard the tomb. Portions of the Easter Vigil service are included, the Baptism renewal and the Litany of the Resurrection, and classic hymns, "All who believe and are Baptized," and "Jesus Lives, the Victory's Won!"
In this sermon for Ascension Day, Dr. Zeile discusses the real absence and the real presence of Christ among Christians after His Ascension. The explanation of anthropomorphic language as applied to God will be helpful to many believers who may not have thought about this and assume the Bible's literal sense is always its intended sense. A choir selection, "Praise to the Risen Savior," Psalm 98, and the Easter Season celebration of Holy Communion accompany this presentation.
There is no sermon but the Reading of the Passion of Christ according to St. Mark by Presbyter (pastor or priest), Deacon, and congregation. The shift from the joyous procession of Palms in honor of Christ the King to the sober account of Jesus' suffering and death marks this first day of Holy Week. The litany of Palm Sunday (written by Dr. Zeile) and the 7th Century hymn of Theodolphus of Orleans (written while in prison on Palm Sunday) are included.
The Apostle James warns of temptation and Dr. Zeile discusses how the "three enemies" relate in tempting us to sin. The hymn "Farewell to the Alleluia," traditionally sung on Quinquagesima Sunday, and the Luther hymn based on Psalm 130, "From Depths of Woe," accompany this message.
The Gospel of John relates how some speculated that Jesus might be the Messiah and that others argued that since He was from Nazareth, He could not be Messiah who was expected to be born in Bethlehem as Micah had prophesied. Dr. Zeile discusses how God's ways of fulfilling His promises catch the proud by surprise. The message is accompanied by the reading from Hebrews 2, and the Rite of Holy Communion.
This Thanksgiving message discusses the faith expressed in giving to God the first of His blessings which shows the priority of God in life, and the confidence that He who provided the first fruits will provide more in the future. Thanksgiving readings include Luke 17, Psalm 136, and Milton's hymn version of the psalm "Praise, Oh Praise Our God and King." The classic Dutch hymn "We Praise Thee O God Our Redeemer, Creator" finishes the program.
The parable of the wise and foolish bridesmaids turns on the human fear of missing out. The right and mistaken application of this experience is discussed in this message from the end of the Church Year. The hymn favorite "The Church's One Foundation," a reading from Galatians 1, and a choir setting of Dona Nobis Pacem ("Give us peace") are included with this message.
Dr. Zeile reads from the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims version.
This message of prophecy fulfilled is accompanied by the hymn "Come, O Long-Expected Jesus," readings from Isaiah 61, Psalm 36, and I Corinthians 12, and the general prayer, closing collect prayer and blessing.
This portion of the Maundy Thursday service begins with the Gloria in Excelsis which was not used for the 40 days of Lent, the readings from I Corinthians 11 recalling the Lord's Supper, and John 13, the washing of the feet. The rite of footwashing is where the pastor washes the feet of some elders to recall Christ's humility and service. The antiphons (responsory) during this rite are particularly noteworthy and a hymn of commemoration concludes this portion of the service presented here.
Isaiah's message offers God's covering for our sin, an image and promise repeated in the New Testament and symbolized by the pastor's vestments. Epiphany season readings accompany Dr. Zeile's exposition, and the beloved Franzman hymn, Thy Strong Word, concludes.
Confronted with the question of taxes to Caesar, Christ pointed out some things we often forget, that government is God's means of enabling people to work together, however reluctantly, for the common good. Yet our duty to government is penultimate, subject to the duty we owe to God. This meditation is accompanied by prayer for our country and appropriate hymn.
This portion of the Ash Wednesday service begins with the penitential Rite of Ashes where those expressing sorrow for sin kneel and have ashes imposed with the words from the Fall of Adam, "Remember, you are dust and to dust you shall return." The litany of repentance, readings from Joel and the Sermon on the Mount conclude this potion of the service. The hymn of mortality, "Who Knows when Death will Overtake Me?" is sung during the imposition of ashes with its refrain, "My God, for Jesus' sake I pray, Thy peace may bless my dying day!"
There are signs of life the doctor looks for to determine whether the patient is alive and healthy. Dr. Zeile discusses the signs of your spiritual life, along with the things you can do to encourage the Spirit's life within.
Shakespeare asked, "What's in a name?" Dr. Zeile's meditation on the name of "Jesus" shows its meaning for every individual who realizes a need to be saved. Hymns and prayers from the New Year's Day service accompany this message.
Time was changed when God entered the world in Christ Jesus. Dr. Zeile's meditation includes prayer & hymns suited to the change of the year.
When Christ cured the blind man in Luke 18, He was the first thing to be seen by that formerly blind man. Dr. Zeile expounds the lesson from this that applies to all whether their ocular organ functions or not. The hymn "Look Ye Saints, the Sight is Glorious" accompanies this message as does the General Prayer, Psalm 142, and the recent hymn, "Depart from Us, the Demons Said."
St. Paul urges a Christian life with the right focus, which is not on the self, but on Someone outside Oneself. Dr. Zeile's discussion of this teaching is accompanied by Catechism recitation of certain Commandments, Confession & Absolution, the a'Kempis-related hymn, "O Love How Deep, How Broad," and the African hymn "Listen, God is Calling."
Luke describes the presentation of Christ in the temple where, as the first-born, He was to be redeemed according to the Law of Moses. Dr. Zeile's reflection on the deeper meaning of this incident includes readings of both Exodus 13 and Luke 2, and the Presentation hymn, "In His Temple Now Behold Him," and Luther's hymn on the Nunc Dimittis, "In Peace and Joy I now Depart."
This Christmas Eve message reflects on the Mother of God who experienced great sorrow and greater joy as the human vessel of the Savior. The Christ Mass (Christmas Communion Rite) is included along with St. Ambrose' hymn "Savior of the Nations, Come" and the sentimental favorite, "Away in a Manger."
God has you covered with garments of salvation. Isaiah spoke the promise which was articulated by Paul in Ephesians and reflected in the traditional vestments which pastors wear. Dr. Zeile' message is accompanied by Psalm 128, the Communion Rite, and Franzmen's popular hymn, "Thy Strong Word."
In Genesis 15 Abraham observes that he has no son in his old age and God makes him a promise. Abraham believed and God counted it to him as righteousness. We, like Abraham live by the often unseen promise of God. Dr. Zeile's meditation is accompanied by Psalm 105, the Nicene confession of faith, the Magnificat and the classic Advent/Christmas hymn, "Let the Earth now Praise the Lord Who has truly Kept His Word."
Psalm 32 is one of the Seven Penitential Psalms and states clearly the fact that forgiveness is imputed- declared by God- rather than earned by the one repenting. Dr. Zeile's meditation is accompanied by the Benedictus from Matins, the rarely heard Athanasian Creed, and the plaintive hymn, "O Lord, hear my prayer; when I call, answer me."
The Holy Spirit is mentioned many times in the Old Testament, but only in the revelation of the Son was the Spirit recognized as God in Person and not merely an attribute of the Father. Dr. Zeile's meditation on Psalm 51 points out that it is God's Spirit that creates faith and enables us to receive the gifts that empower us for service in the present. This message is accompanied by a reading from Matthew 6, and hymns, "Farewell to the Alleluia," and Luther's hymn on the Lord's Prayer, "Our Father Thou in Heaven Above."
Before His death, Jesus told His disciples that He had "other sheep not of this fold" to seek. Dr. Zeile's message shows the Savior's intent to reach beyond the covenant people, the Jews, to include all nations in the plan of salvation. We who are His followers today share His concern to bring good news of forgiveness to all people. This meditation includes the Rite of Confession, the Introit, the recent hymn "The King of Love My Shepherd Is" (based on Psalm 23). and is followed by the celebration of Holy Communion.
Most obituaries are written after the subject has died, but Isaiah wrote the obituary of Jesus, the Servant of the Lord, centuries before His birth. It is uncanny how the many details given by the Prophet apply to the Servant who suffered on the Cross. The meditation is accompanied by the 6th part of the Good Friday Tre Ore Devotions focused on Christ's entombment. The hymn, "Lo All is Finished Now" completes this solemn meditation.
This personal application of Christ's Parable of the Sower is accompanied by the hymn, "Almighty God, Thy Word is Cast Like Seed into the Ground," and followed by the Communion rite.
In this Reformation message, Dr. Zeile explains the vision of John in Revelation as encompassing the Reformation in its sweep and Luther's emphasis on all glory for our salvation. The message is accompanied by the Reformation Psalm 46, and Luther's hymn, based on that Psalm, "A Mighty Fortress is Our God." The classic hymn, "Jesus Priceless Treasure is also included.
Sometimes God calls us out of our comfort zone, as He called Abram to leave Ur of the Chaldees and then Haran, to wander as a sojourner in Palestine. Dr. Zeile's message points out that sometimes God blesses us by requiring to give up one thing that we may cherish another thing more. The classic Lutheran hymn, "Lord Thee I Love with All My Heart" is included as is the celebration of Holy Communion.
Fewer issues are as contrary to 21st Century western cultural values as the Christian call for purity in sexual matters. Dr. Zeile explains that the nature of sex as the "glue" that unites husband and wife is a blessing when used according to God's intent, but a curse when misused. Perhaps half of all Americans have been rejected by those who have known them most intimately. To be rejected by one who knows you best is one of the most crushing experiences possible. Yet, through Christ, healing and redirection of life is possible. This is expressed in David's Psalm 51, and the hymn "O God be Merciful to Me," which accompany this exposition.
This Easter message is preceded by the hymn O Filii et Filiae (O Sons and Daughters) and is followed by the favorite "Duke Street" melody hymn "I Know That My Redeemer Lives." In the meditation, Dr. Zeile discusses the charge made in Apostolic times, repeated even today, that the risen Christ was an imposter. Christ's resurrection is a mystery beyond human understanding while the argument for an imposter is a self-serving projection by those not privileged to believe.
This meditation, suitable for Holy Cross Day (September 14) as well as Passiontide, reflects on the necessity of dying to obtain new life, which necessity Jesus undertook on our behalf. Psalm 22 and the Fortunatus (4th Century) hymn "Sing, My Tongue, the Glorious Battle," are included in this program.
After the Introit, Kyrie, Easter canticle "This is the Feast of Victory for Our God," and collect, Dr. Zeile shares this meditation on Jesus' words in Gethsemane just prior to His arrest. They are a promise of the Spirit and of hope that transcended the immediate situation. Brief confession and Communion follow with the hymn "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling."
Paul's letter to Philemon is a marvelous piece of pastoral care, seeking to reconcile the run-away slave to his master and vice-versa. Mutual submission and care rather than "rights" are what Paul stresses even as he points to the grace we have received from God which we are to share with each other. This meditation is accompanied by the judgment hymn, "A Multitude Comes from the East and the West," and the Easter hymn "O Son and Daughters of the King," Psalm 148, an Easter prayer and the Magnificat.
St. John’s Board of Evangelism is inviting you to celebrate 14 years of Martin Luther’s Evening Prayer at a fund-raising dinner SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22, from 5pm to 7pm at St. John’s, Taylor. Invitation cards (pictured above) are available for any who would like to use them to invite friends or family.
We are asking $25 per plate for a German-themed dinner we call MARTIN LUTHER’S EVENING SUPPER. There will be two or three entrees and sides, a brief program at 6:20pm which will include a report on the ministry, remarks from one or two guests, a little singing, and a closing prayer.
We need reservations paid in advance by October 10. You can mail a check payable to St. Johns Lutheran Church with “Radio dinner” on the memo line. OR you can stop in at St. John’s Monday through Friday between 9am and 1pm to pay cash. Seating is limited, so do not wait until the last minute!
Those who wish to pay by credit may do so on-line by going to:
https://www.kindridgiving.com/app/giving/stjohnstaylor
on the donation line put $25 (or more) for each person attending and on the memo line write “Oct22”.
We thank God that this radio ministry has expanded to 11 stations coast to coast with plans to add two more this year. Your support and attendance at this dinner will mean so much! God bless you!
This meditation considers that Christ was not only tempted in the same way we are, but also in ways beyond our experience. Surprisingly, if Christ had yielded He would not have sinned, for as God He was not subject to the Law as humans are. But if He had yielded, He would have ceased to identify with human beings who ARE under the Law. It was our fate in the balance, not Christ's. But praise be to God, He placed Himself under the Law so that He could fulfill it in our stead. This message is accompanied the hymn, "O Christ You walked the Road."
The Greek word translated as "transfiguration is the source oif the word "metamorphesis," the change in form of certain animals. The meaning of this change in Christ's appearance which revealed His glory to chosen disciples was to assure them that the suffering and death that was to follow was indeed God's will and Christ's mission. Dr. Zeile's exposition of this is accompanied by the Gloria and collect for the feast, as well as the Communion Rite and the office hymn "O Wond'rous Type," and the contemporary hymn "Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory" which has the feel of a cowboy ballad.
Many have accepted Christianity because it was the path of least resistance, but is it an easy path? By no means! St. Paul explains what we can expect in living the Christian life, the way of the Cross. Dr. Zeile's message is accompanied by Psalm 74, the classic Lutheran hymn, "Salvation unto Us has Come," the celebration of Holy Communion, and the lententide hymn, "O Lord Throughout these Forty Days."
Christ's answer to the question as to whether it is right to pay taxes to Caesar, a foriegner, struck all by its wisdom. To earthly rulers are given material paower and they are actually a blessing in that they regulate temporal life. It is better to be robbed by one man than by every ruffian that passes through. Yet the more important things, love, spiritual worship, and ultimate loyaty, these belong to God. Dr. Zeile's explanation of Christ's teaching is accompanied by the Creed and general prayer as well as the hymn of Francis Scott Key "Before Thee Lord we Bow."
The Lord gives us an example of how to deal those who do not deal with us in good faith. The priests and elders asked Jesus by what authority He taught and healed. The Lord asked them about their view of John's baptism, and when they refused to answer, He said no to answering their question. Dr. Zeile's exposition points out that the follower of Christ can and should say "No" in many situations, and that the desire to please everyone is not a Christian obligation or virtue. At the same time, we ARE to deal with others sincerely, honestly, and forthrightly. This message is accompanied by Lutheran classic hymn, "A Lamb Goes Uncomplaining forth" (Based on the Agnus Dei), and the Evangelical favorite "What Wond'rous Love is This."
On the eighth day after His birth Christ was circumcised and received the name "Jesus" (which means "savior"). Thus, New Year's Day is celebrated in many churches as the Name Day of Christ, and fittingly so. But there is deep meaning to the circumcision of the Christ Child: this is the first instance of His shedding blood for sin, and this when He who gave the Law (Torah) as God is put under the Law as man in the Bris or ceremony of circumcision. Dr. Zeile points out that this shows that CHrist's whole life, and not just its climax on the cross, is the sacrifice for our sin. This meditation is accompanied by elements of the New Year's Eve service including the Liturgical Proclamation of the Birth of Christ, Gloria in Excelsis, and Litany on the Name of Jesus.
In Psalm 137 Israel remebers home with sadness and longing, emotions often evoked at funerals. Yet in God there is hope- not immediate gratification, but hope. This message by Dr. Zeile is accompanied by Psalm 130 ("Out of the Depths"), the reading of John 11 (Raising of Lazarus), and the Litany prayed in procession.
Dr. Zeile reads Psalm 39 from the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century King James Version, and the 18th Century Douai-Rheims translation as revised by Richard Challoner.
This Advent meditation considers the widow Anna who was a figure familiar at many a church, what Barbara Pim called one of the "excellent women" whose faith is constant, and presence at the sanctuary is faithful, whose attitude is humble, and therefore often overlooked. But it was to such that the infant Messiah was revealed. Dr. Zeile's homily is accompanied by portions of the Epiphany service, Psalm 70, the hymns "Arise and Shune in Splendor" set to the Medieval tune "Inssbruck, I must leave Thee," and the sturdy English classic "Angels fro the Realms of Glory."
This special procession with collects in honor of Saints Peter & Paul are fitting for their June 29 feast day.
After Confession, the Kyrie, Gloria in Excelses, and a reading of Philippians 4, Dr. Zeile preaches on the Lord's appeal to our profit motive when He asks "What profit a man if he gain the whole world and yet lose his soul?" Is this an appeal to our reason, or our selfishness? The session concludes with the Danish paraphrase of Luther's Mighty Fortress sung in English as "God's Word is our Great Heritage."
The order of Compline (Night Prayer) includes this meditation on one of the women ancestors of Christ. Rebekah waited a long time, about 20 years before she gave birth, and then she had twins, Esau and Jacob, the latter of which was to receive the blessing so as to father the nation of Israel, and even more, the Messiah. We often fail to realize that the people of Faith we know as the Patriarchs suffered family dysfunction and sorrow, yet God's purpose prevailed.
Some of the laws in the Old Testament seem draconian in our day of religious liberty, including Moses' strictures against idolatry. But the real moral principle behind this civil law which no longer applies to believers is that friends need to support one another in what is right, and this includes holding each other accountable to their faith commitment. Dr. Zeile's discussion of this issue is accompanied by the hymn "Son of God, Eternal Savior" and Romans 8, and is followed by Psalm 34 and the hymn "O God My Faithful God: I Trust when Dark the Road."
Jesus observed that the people of His generation (indeed every generation!) were not satisfied with the messengers God sent, neither John the Baptist who was too stern, nor Himself who was too forgiving. We learn from Him to distinguish God's promises from our own delusions. This meditation is preceded by the readings, Revelation 15, Psalm 45, and Romans 3 and Luther's classic hymn, "A Mighty Fortress," and his hymn on the Credo, "We All Believe in One True God."
We imagine that the world depends on us, and yet it is waiting for us after we have slept. Dr. Zeile's meditation on God's gift of sleep points out how knowing that God is in charge, and that His will for us is good, as demonstrated by Jesus' gift of His life for us, enables us to receive the gift of sleep for renewal and refreshment. Confession and Absolution, and readings from 1 Peter and from the Sermon on the Mount are included in this episode.
Dr. Zeile discusses what we can learn about prayer from Abraham's example of pleading for Sodom, notably that God condescends to "bargain" with us, and that God may answer in a way that we may not realize, as He did in this case. Two hymns on prayer are included in the program, "I Holy Conversations We Speak to God in Prayer," and the favorite of many, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus (Take it to the Lord in Prayer)." A General Prayer as well as Luther's Evening Prayer complete the session.
Dr. Zeile's message on Elijah' surprising reverse after his victory on Mt. Carmel points out how our highs and lows are related to each other, and how we may be tempted to project our perception on God instead of listening to the small still voice of comfort that assures us that He is still in charge. This meditation includes Psalm 146, the hymn "Forth In Thy Name, O Lord, I Go," and Luther's hymn on the Nunc Dimittis, "In Peace and Joy I Now Depart."
Isaiah's message is explained by Dr. Zeile as the offer of righteousness which will bless us beyond this life; nevertheless, there are many temporal blessings that come with this gift from God. The service of prayer and preaching includes readings from Romans 11 and Matthew 16, as well the canticle of Isaiah 12, "The Lord God is my Strength and my Song."
Paul's urging to harmony may seem like something we work for and therefore a human accomplishment, but it is really a Divine gift that turns on receiving the Lord's teaching, or doctrine. Dr. Zeile's message is accompanied by a reading from 2 Timothy 3, the hymn "When in Our Music God is Glorified," the Magnificat, and Psalm 150.
This processional from the June 29 celebration of saints Peter and Paul alternates the appropriate collect prayers with stanzas from the hymn "From All Thy Saints in Warfare for All Thy Sainst at Rest"
Mark 6 contains the memorable account of the storm on the Sea of Galilee which frightened the disciples. Jesus was asleep in the boat, but they awakened Him with the question, "Don't you care that we are perishing?" Dr. Zeile reflects on how God indeed cares and comes to aid us in a crisis, and what the experience may mean for us. The old-time favorite "Jesus Savior, Pilate Me over Life's Tempestuous Sea," as well as Psalm 130 ("Out of the Depths"), a general prayer and the hymn, "Love Divine" are included in the program.
Luther's hymn based on Isaiah's call in Chapter 6 begins this program of meditation on God's call to us in the sacrament of Baptism. Isaiah 42 conveys God's message that He has called us by name, a call that is applied to each of us in Christ's command to baptize. The rite of Baptism renewal follows the Scripture meditation, and the contemporary hymn, "God's Own Child, I Gladly say it," points to the joy of being one of God's children.
We are waiting for the Lord's Return. We are anxious for His victory to be acknowledged by all our enemies. This is human, but God's plans are best and the Apostle James gives counsel to us trying to live the Christian life in an impatient world. This meditation is preceded by Psalm 146, and followed by the Magifical, Litany, Collect & Benediction and the hymn, "Hark the Glad Sound, The Savior Comes."
Peter had denied his Lord three times and imagined he would never be freed from the guilt of sin and the despair of Jesus' death. But the Easter Gospel changed his despair into hope and with the appearance of the risen Christ at the Sea of Galilee, opportunity for reconciliation and restoration! This message of hope for all who trust in Christ includes a bell choir anthem ("Christ is Arisen, Alleluia"), and two hymns ("O Blessed Holy Trinity" and Spread o Mighty Word"), as well as the Communion Rite.
John the Baptist testified of Christ's baptism, that he heard the Voice of the Father and saw the Spirit descend as a dove on the man Jesus. In our baptism we are linked to Jesus, the water removing our sin and conveying the odor of righteousness to us. Give thanks for the sacrament that links us to the Holy Trinity! This message is preceded by Psalm 25, and the Swedish hymn "Children of the Heavenly Father," and followed by a choir anthem, "Alleluia, Give Thanks to the Risen Lord."
Few values in our century are as neglected as personal integrity, the kind that treats others by the same standard that we apply to ourselves. We are tempted to change identities, shuck off old promises, leave human problems behind without solving them, and borrow when we cannot repay. The Psalmist could stand before God in his integrity because his was the voice of Christ, the One Righteous Man who took the punishment of us guilty ones. He restores integrity through forgiveness, and the presence of God's Spirit in our lives. This message includes Confession, the Kyrie, and Gloria, and is followed by general prayer, a collect & blessing, and the hymn' "Draw us to Thee."
This meditation on Solomon's insight into the futility of even the most successful life explains how we were created for more than temporal life. In Christ our full potential for life overflowing is realized, but we have to let go of the inferior to grasp the superior gift. The classic Lutheran hymn, "Jesus, Priceless Treasure," fittingly caps this meditation.
Author Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens), a notorius doubter, remarked, "It is not the things in the Bible I don't understand that trouble me; it is the things in the Bible I DO understand that trouble me." Christ's suggestion that it would be better to cut off one's hand than go to hell may be one such troubling truth. It is confounding who take the Bible literally, but not seriously. Dr. Zeile discusses the real issue, the source of sin in the human person, and how Christ addresses that. This message is accompanied by the Apostle's Creed, Offertory, Rite of Holy Communion, and the hymn, "Rise My Soul to Watch and Pray."
Jonah's was a message of repentance, of "turning," changing your mind, and changing direction before disaster follows. The pagan citizens of Niniveh were given this opportunity to repent, and so are we. Dr. Zeile's instruction is accompanied by the Introit, General Prayer, and two hymns, "O Christ the True, the Only Light," and the beloved "The Church's One Foundation."
Christ appeals to our sense of gain or advantage when He asks, "What profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul?" The paradox of gaining by renouncing, and its converse, the irrationality of evil, are the joint-subject of this meditation. Readings from Psalm 46 as well as Matthew 16, along with the Agnus Dei and Grundtveg's "God's Word is our Great Herirtage" (paraphrase of Luther's Mighty Fortress v.3 ) are included.
This meditation addresses the puzzling circumstances of the disciples' leaving Christ behind to dismiss those He had fed with fish and loaves. And why were they so frightened of seeing a ghost? The context and significance of the miracle are presented by Dr. Zeile in a compelling message, accompanied by the Navy Hymn.
What does the Christian life look like? St. Paul's words to Timothy show that God grows His Church, not by revolution, nor by retreat and seclusion, but by assimilation as when Christians live their faith in the world, promoting what is good and giving the glory to God. Trials and crises will come, but God's people are in it for the long haul, recognizing their weakness and thus relying on God. The readings include Luke 16 and the hymn "Christ the Servant."
Dr. Zeile reads Psalm 64 in the 16th Century translation of Coverdale found in the Book of Common Prayer; the 17th Century King James Version; and in the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
The Holy Innocents are the infants of age two or younger slain in Bethlehem in Herod's attempt to kill the Christ. As the first to be killed for Christ these infants remind us that monstrous evil exists and even rises to power in this world; at the same time, these infants were called to God's presence to enjoy bliss while the survivors mourned below. Into this world of evil and mourning can the Christ to share our woes so that in Heaven we might share His bliss. This meditation is accompanied by the ancient hymn of Prudentius, and the Coventry Carol.
There was a special place in God's plan of salvation for the City of David, Jerusalem. Christ taught us not to swear by Jerusalem for "It is the city of the great King," speaking of Himself in words from Psalm 48. This meditation is accompanied by the Maginificat, the Litany, and two hymns concerning the great city: "Jerusalem, Thou City Fair and High"; and the medieval "Jerusalem the Golden."
The order of Compline is the Church's night-time prayer and this is chanted and includes a homily on the Holiness of Christ in light of Exodus 15:11. Three Advent hymns are included: "Hosanna, Praise and Glory," "The Advent of our King," and Jesus Came the Heavens Adoring."
Though only commanded for the Day of Atonement, fasting is practiced often in the New Testament. The prophet Isaiah brings a message concerning the way it can please God. Psalm 84, Thanksgiving Prayers, and Luther's hymn, "If God had not been on Our Side," accompany this message.
This message from early Advent reviews the Scripture teaching about living the upright, sober life that is incompatible with carousing. The line between merry-making and carousing is often ignored and brings trouble to even well-meaning individuals; but the God-centered life manifests the Spirit's gift of self-control. Confession & Absolution, the Agnus Dei, and the hymn, "God Loved the World" are included in the program.
Peter had denied Christ three times, and after His resurrection Christ allows Peter to affirm three times his love. What Peter believed and Judas did not was the message of forgiveness that Jesus had taught all along. The bell choir plays "Christ is Risen, Alleluia," and the Communion Rite is celebrated. "Spread, Oh Spread Almighty Word," and St. Ambrose' "O Blessed Holy Trinity" are hymns included in this brodcast.
Beginning with the Decalog (Ten Commandments prayed responsively), and accompanied by Luther's hymn on the Commandments ("That Man a Godly Life Might Live"), this message on the Law of God discusses how that law is applied to our individual and corporate lives, and its chief purpose: to drive sinners to the Gospel of forgiveness.
Implicit in the Old Testament is the Triune identity of God, that He is One God in Three Persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). Dr. Zeile's message shows how this identity is implicit in Isaiah 48 :16 where the Servant of the Lord declares that He is sent by Jehovah with the Spirit. This meditation for the Festival of the Most Holy Trinity is fittingly accompanied by the Te Deum Laudamus from Matins, the Litany, and classic hymns, "Praise the Almighty , My Soul Adore Him,' and Luther's "In Peace and Joy I Now Depart," based on the Nunc Dimittis.
"Why should it take up the ground?" is a question some parents ask about a lazy son. This is a warning to all of us that we are put on this world for a purpose and will be accountable to our Creator for that. But knowing our purpose gives us assurance of God's blessing as well as meaning to our lives, the double blessing, spiritual and temporal that God intends. This meditation is accompanied by Psalm 84 and the contemporary hymn, "Fruitful Trees, the Spirit's Planting," as well as by the celebration of Holy Communion.
Jesus' beatitudes in Matthew 5 and Luke 6 are not what we would expect- "Happy are the POOR?" Many of His teachings are counterintuitive, contrary to appearance, as when we see a child playing, and another in misery doing homework- that latter one is blessed for his future is better than the former. But unlike self-help advisors, Jesus points us not to ourselves but to His Father who distributes every blessing. This is preceded by the Liturgy of the Word (Introit, Kyrie, Gloria, and Collect), and followed by the Magnificat. The Navy Hymn is included as well.
This sermon for Ascension Day discusses the Biblical meaning of of God's Right Hand, which is not the crude picture of God as a giant floating out in space, or even of God's right hand being a place "Away" from this earth. Rather, as Martin Luther pointed out (and many Christian teachers before him), God has no hand of flesh, but He has a hand of power, and this power is everywhere. Christ's ascension to the right hand is His taking the seat of power, enabling Him to promise "Lo, I am with you always/everywhere, even to the end of the world/age." It is therefore a celebration of Christ's enthronement as is brought out by the readings from Acts 1 and Mark 16, and the 5th Century hymn, "Hail Thee, Festival Day."
The Prophet Ezekiel tells a parable or allegory given him by God to show His will even in seeming disaster. This is certainly applicable to the Easter gospel as Dr. Zeile explains. The message is accompanied by Psalm 77, the Easter Litany, and the contemporary Lutheran classic hymn, "Water, Blood, and Spirit Crying."
This message is based on Paul's teaching that we have "Peace through the blood of His cross." The significance of blood which is identified with life in the Hebrew tradition is shared by Dr. Zeile in the exposition. This same blood is promised in the Sacrament of the Altar, or Holy Communion which is included in this broadcast.
There is a balance in the Christian life between truth and love; each without the other is insufficiant. Dr. Zeile discusses St. Paul's teaching on this delicate balance in this practical meditation.
St. Paul's final wish for the Corinthians is that the God of peace and love should be with them, transforming their lives. This same power and transformation is available to every believer, as Dr. Zeile points out in this message. Easter music and pryaers are a fitting accompaniment.
This is an expansion of the Lord's Prayer, intended by Luther to expand the worshiper's understanding in the vernacular service he prepared for the unlearned.
Hosea's prophetic word opposed those who made a compact with death, as if the occult were a better source of life than the Creator; the Christ came to demonstrate God's victory over death in the resurrection, a victory and promise shared with all believers. Easter hymns and prayers accompany the message by Dr. Zeile.
The prophet Isaiah was shown the suffering Servant of the Lord who gave His back to those who beat Him. The humiliation as well as the pain made this a punishment unfit for Roman citizens, but yet the King of Israel submitted for the sake of those He wished to belong to the KIngdom of God. Good Friday prayers and hymn are included.
The betrayal of the Christ, even the price, was foreseen by the prophet Zechariah in the visions God had sent him. These details are not incidental, but filled with meaning, as Dr. Zeile's exposition will show. Appropriate Passiontide (Holy Week) prayers and hymn accompanies this meditation.
One of the most painful human experiences in our modern age is rejection. Rejection of love is a common motive for suicide. The Savior of the world was willing to offer Himself to us in love and experience our rejection; but even more mysteriously, He endured rejection by His Father, experiencing what sinners deserved. This Good Friday meditation includes appropriate hymns & prayer.
Christ met the needs of those who sought Him in the wilderness, feeding 5,000. But such bread sustains for a day, and Christ wanted to prepare His followers for the bread of eternal life through this miracle which foreshadowed His feeding millions through the last 2 millennia with His Own Body and Blood. The rite of Holy Communion and the hymn "Bread of Heaven" fittingly accompany this eucharistic meditation by Dr. Zeile.
THis first of the seven penitential Psalms, is read in three classic English translations.
The Lord asks in Isaiah 42:19 "Who is blind as my servant?" while at the same time promising light to those in darkness. Truly the Lord's Servant came to bring sight to the blind even as He shared their limitations. Dr. Zeile explains how this pertains to Christ and the meaning of His healing the blind man in this lenten message. It is accompanied by the John Newton classic hymn, "Amazing Grace."
Elements of the Matins service (Morning prayer based on the Psalms) include Psalms 95 & 75, a reading from Romans 10, the Magnificat and prayers, including the collect for the Transfiguration. Dr. Zeile's meditation explains that the Greek word for Transfiguration is "metamorphosis" the term we use to describe the change of form for amphibians or insects, and it is used to describe the heavenly mystery about Christ revealed to His 3 apostles on the mountain. The contemporary hymn (with a western sound) "Swiftly Pass the Clouds of Glory" and the German folk hymn "Lord take my Hand and Lead Me" are also included.
This meditation on the link between Isaiah 53, the suffering servant of the Lord, and Matthew 26, the suffering of the Christ, shows the golden link between the Hebrew Scriptures and their fulfillment in the Christ. Elements of the Communion service (or Mass) and the Lenten hymn, "Thousand, Thousand Thanks shall Be," accompany this message.
Many Christians feel called to "witness," that is to tell what God has done for us in Christ. The Psalmist shows us how it is done in Psalm 40 where he calls on the Lord in trouble, is delivered, and tells how God blessed him in this way. Dr. Zeile's exposition of this ancient believer's experience relates to each of us in the 21st Century. A reading from Colossians 3, the 15th Century hymn "Arise and Shine," the Magnificat, the Creed, and a choir selection are included in this broadcast.
Psalm 95 is the traditional Psalm for Sunday Matins and invites us, "O Come let us sing to the Lord...Let us come into His presence with thanksgiving!" If God is everywhere at all times, what do we mean by these words? Dr. Zeile explains the kinds of presence and the meaningful, joyful kind that is Christian worship. A reading from Hebrews 2, the litany, and the 18th Century classic hymn, "Christ whose Glory fills the Skies," accompany this message.
The Psalmist asserts that God counts the number of the stars and yet concerns Himself with the broken-hearted. What a magnificent God who takes in the infinite, giant stars, and yet concerns Himself with our paltry woes! This meditation is accompanied by a reading from Luke 12, the Magnificat, general prayers, and the Evangelical classic, "When Peace like a River."
What does the Psalmist mean when he asserts that "The Lord is my light and my salvation"? Dr. Zeile considers light's role in revealing what is real versus what is merely shadow, and our need of what God reveals which we could not discern on our own. The rite of Holy Communion (mass , Liturgy, or Lord's Supper) is included as well as the classic 18th Century hymn, "What is the World to Me?"
The Psalmist asks, "Who will stand before the Lord" and "enter His Holy City?" The answer, in a word, is the individual of integrity. But our culture has downplayed and ignored integrity for the last two generations or more as we encourage people to "follow the heart" with its contradictory and inconsistent desires, resulting in frustration, despair, and self-defeating behavior. One aspect of salvation offered in Christ is integrity, a blessing discussed in Dr. Zeile's message. Included is the rite of corporate Confession and Absolution, prayers from Candlemas, and the hymn of devotion, "Draw Us to Thee."
Is nostalgia a good thing? Or is it a misunderstanding of the past? Dr. Zeile discusses the role of this human experience from the perspective of the ancients and of the Psalmist and exposes what is true and false. The celebration of Holy Communion and the Dutch hymn "We Praise Thee, O God of our Fathers, We Bless Thee," are included in this broadcast.
Dr. Zeile reads the Psalm in each of three classic English translations from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.
After relating the story of the Wise Men's visit, and Herod's attempt to kill the Christ Child, Matthew observes that after living as a refugee in Egypt, Christ returned to Israelite territory, the Scripture had been fulfilled, "Out of Israel I have called My Son." But this was spoken through Hosea concerning the people of Israel at the time of the Exodus. What did the Christ have to do with Israel? Dr. Zeile explains the Christian understanding that Christ fulfilled Israel's mission, that of keeping the law perfectly and thus fulfilling the Covenant of Sinai on behalf of the world, and becoming the Seed of Abraham who would bless the world. This message also includes Epiphany vespers and hymns.
There is power in a name. Jesus invites us to use His powerful name, the Name above all names, to access the Father. We will receive, not what we want, but what we would want if we knew what is best for us. This meditation is accompanied by Psalm 100, the Magnificat, and a classic 19th Century hymn, "How Sweet the Name of Jesus sounds in a believer's ear."
This is part of an Advent series, "People of God Living with the Promise." In this episode, those living with the promise as exiles, defeated and torn from their homes, is considered. Such tragedies in our lives can open our eyes to the transcendent and greater blessing God has for us in the future, and the value of that promise for our day-to-day lives. The message accompanies the service of Compline, the Church's night prayer based on the Psalms.
St. Paul encourages us to abound- but how? God is the source and thus it is by connecting with Him that we receive grace to share with others. This is illustrated by trhe Lord's prayer in which we ask God to "Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors..." We can only pass on what we have received, therefore staying connected to God's means of grace, Word and Sacrament is imperitive for everyone professing to be a Christian.
Many people cannot relate to God. Just as one who does not visit his brother will not have a relationship with him, so many who were introduced to God do not follow through. This meditation clarifies what it is to have a relationship, particularly a saving relationship with our Heavenly Father. Psalm 133 which celebrates relationship, and the Te Deum (along with other elements of Matins, the Church's morning prayer based on the Psalms) are included in this message recording.
To celebrate something is to affirm that it is good. St. Paul encourages us to recognize what is truly good by celebrating, affirming, encouraging, and aclling attention to what is good so that we will enjoy surpassing peace, despite the ups and downs of temporal life. The message is part of the celebration of Vespers, the Church's evening prayer based on the Psalms.
This message for Christmas meditates on the expectations we have for children whose potential is before them. The birth of Christ engendered such expectations, and He confounded them by being both less and greater than our hopes, for God often denies us what we want in order to provide something unimaginably better. Christmas readings and hymns accompany this message, and it closes with a cello solo playing of "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" by Annaliese Heissenbuettel.
Herod Antipas was a man in two worlds, Roman and Jewish; similarly, he heard two voices calling him, the one to honor and the other to self-indulgence. John the Baptist confronted him with his sin and Herod had him arrested, but could not keep himself from talking to the prophet in prison. Finally circumstances forced his choice with tragic consequences. Are you torn between living for self and living for God? This meditation will open your eyes. Catechism review and the hymn of Savonarola, "Jesus, Refuge of the Weary," accompany this message.
Primal forces at work within us (microcosm) and without us (macrocosm) are order and chaos. Our fallen world tends toward chaos unless outside forces overcome the tendency for things to fall apart. It is why cars need maintenance and gardens need care. It is a reflection of the cosmic victory celebrated by the Psalmist in the 148th Psalm, and rehearsed in the Genesis 1 story of 7 Day's Creation. This meditation is prayers, the Offertory, and the hymn of praise "Glory Be to God the Father."
"No man is a hero to his valet," is the saying most commonly expressed as "Familiarity breeds contempt." This is especially true for those who are familiar with religion, regarding it as part of themselves, regarding is as "common." Jesus was rejected by those who knew Him best (by human standards), but could not see who He really was. And we can do it with our familiars, unable to see our spouse or grown child because being familiar, we think we know them already. This is tragic with human relationships, and fatal in our relationship with God. This sobering reflection is accompanied by the Nicene Creed and Communion Rite, and the favorite stewardship hymn "We Give Thee But Thine Own>"
The tax collector was willing to humiliate himself to see Jesus, and Jesus took notice. The encounter with Jesus changed, not just his heart or sentiments, but his way of life, even his spending decisions! The classic hymn "Salvation unto Us Has Come" recalls Jesus pronouncement that "Salvation is come today into this house." The general prayer for All Saints' Day, and the Blessing are included in this broadcast.
Psalm 46 is the source of Luther's Reformation hymn, "A Mighty Fortress is Our God," and is the basis for Dr. Zeile's message explaining what the Reformation was about- the glory of God centered in the work of Christ for our salvation. No human works intervene lest anyone should boast, imagining he has merit over others, nor despair, imagining that he is irredeemable. The Reformation Festival Introit, sequence hymn and Gospel (John 8) accompanies this message along with Luther's hymn version of the Nicene Creed and Communion from the Deutsche Messe (German[or vernacular] Mass).
God's Word is simple- "love!" But HOW are we to love God and others? The life to which we apply God's Word is complicated, and so it requires the best we can give it, and even so, there are many times when we must walk by faith and not by sight, when we must accept God's commands and promises despite the contravening messages of our heart. John freely discusses the complications in this presentation. The Shepherd's Psalm 23, the hymn known as the German Agnus Dei, and an Act of Adoration accompany this meditation on the challenge of faith in a complex world.
Deacon Dave Valenti leads in the prayer for God's blessing on the Martin Luther's Evening Prayer on the inception of international short wave broadcasting.
Ezekiel saw a valley of dry bones and is told to preach to the Spirit/Wind/Breath. The point is that God's people will be brought back, despite their reduction to bones and dust. And it is the Holy Spirit, the Wind or Breath of God that will awaken us on the Last Day. This Pentecost message is accompanied by the Confessional rite, Introit, and Kyrie, the Nicene Creed and the hymn, O Day of Joy and Gladness."
Forgiveness is for those who want to be free from their sin, not those who wish to indulge further. When we use forgiveness as an excuse to sin more, we are receiving grace in vain and condemning ourselves further. This sobering message is accompanied by St. Patrick's Breastplate ("I Bind Unto Myself This Day the Strong Name of the Trinity"), the eschatological hymn "A Multitude Come from the East and the West to sit at the Feast of Salvation", and Compline prayers.
God abundantly blesses us at times with more than we can use. What are we to do with such? We are to lift up those who lack, blessing others in imitation of God's blessing. When we use gifts to manipulate others or imply that we are better we fail to lift others up. Christ died to lift us up and His love is the motive for edification of all kinds. The meditation is followed by the hymn "O Lord, Hear My Prayer," and collects & blessing.
The Ethiopian Eunuch was a seeker who was of a different race and of a condition not allowed to worship at the temple or offer sacrifice. But Deacon Philip explain Isaiah 53 to him and the good news that Jesus is that acceptable sacrifice for all nations, the very transition from the Old Covenant based on Law to the New Covenant based on grace for Jesus' sake. This meditation is followed by the Rite of Holy Communion.
After the rite of confession, Dr. Zeile presents a message on the Pharisees' attempt to intimidate Jesus in Luke 13. The Lord's example in not allowing fear to dominate His thinking or influence His plans is a power one for us today. The sermon is followed by the litany and Lord's Prayer.
The Psalmist celebrates God's provision for all creatures, especially for people who can know who sends their blessings. And Christ came to provide not merely bread for the day but the bread of life, His own Body given that we may have unending life. God foresaw our need and out of that foresight, provides what is needed. This meditation is accompanied by a choir anthem "King of Our Hearts," and compline pryaers.
Dr. Zeile's message develops Christ's pointing out His place in the Scriptures so that we see where we are in relation to Christ, and all of history. This truth provides orientation, context, and direction for our personal lives. This is accompanied by 2021 Vacation Bible School songs led by Lutheran Teacher Glenn Grage.
God's Word can be divided into the commands and the promises, or the Law and the Gospel. Law is God's demand for righteousness and Gospel is the good news of God gift of righteousness through Christ. The Psalmist's celebration of this in Psalm 18 is accompanied by the "Missa Breva" of Lutheran tradition the Kyrie and Gloria in Excelsis, and the Rite of Holy Communion. The hymn "God of Grace and God of Glory" completes this offering.
This sobering message points out that living right has many blessings in life but it also attracts persecution in a sinful world. Without the grace of faith in God we can be discouraged and succumb to evil ourselves. Psalm 3 , the Rite of Confession, and the classic hymn "Yea, As I Live, Jehovah Saith, I would not have the Sinner's Death," accompany this message.
St. Paul describes the nature of thanks which is related to the word "grace," that quality that gives gratification without expectation of return. Readings from Ruth, I Timothy, and Luke 17 (The One of ten who returned to thank Jesus) accompany this meditation as well as the hymn "We Praise Thee O God of our Fathers."
"Tradition" is a misunderstood concept among protestants in general and Lutherans in particular. St. Paul in I Corinthians 11 speaks of what he received and of handing down which was of greatest importance. This tradition is spelled out in the Apostolic Scriptures which are the canon (rule) by which we recognize the Word of God in all its forms. The Magnificat from Vespers accompanies this meditation.
We often forget that the Prodigal Son had a brother, and many of us, whether we realize it or not, identify with him. This message with its call to repentance is accompanied by the Rite of Confession and Absolution (Forgiveness), the Kyrie ("Lord, Have Mercy"), and the Psalm 51- based Offertory ("Create in Me a Clean Heart").
In our hearts as well as in the outward people of God we call the visible Church weeds are sown by the Evil One; but God allows both to coexist, lest the good be destroyed with the evil. We are to wait patiently until the final harvest when God gathers His Own. Psalm 24 is prayed along with the Te Deum Laudamus from Matins, and the hymn "Almighty God Your Word is Cast like Seed into the Ground" is fittingly sung.
Christ's commission to the 70 apostles in Luke 10 clarifies the role of healing in service to the Gospel. Not to replace doctors or physicians, but to address the very root of disease, which is sin; not to restore earthly health which will ebb at the last, but health of the spirit that may flourish in new and everlasting life. A choral anthem and the rite of Communion for Pentecost are included in this program.
This sermon for Trinity Sunday discusses the works of God and their attribution to the Persons of God. To the Father is ascribed Creation, although the other persons are involved; similarly the work of Redemption is ascribed to the Son although the Father and the Spirit each have their part to play. And the Work of giving life and faith to the believer is the work of the Spirit, sent by Father and the Son. To this message is added the Athanasian Creed, a clear statement of who God is and who Christ is. The Te Deum hymn of Empress Maria Theresa , "Holy God We Praise Thy Name," completes this program.
Psalm 104 speaks of the Spirit of God as the source of life and this explains the Spirit's role in creation and in the believer's recreation as a child of God. This meditation on the Spirit of Life includes the Gospel for Pentecost read in three languages to recall the gift of tongues: German, English, and Latin. Luther's hymn, "Come Holy Ghost, God and Lord," and the ancient sequence hymn "Creator Spiritus" ("Come, Holy Ghost Creator Blest") also accompany this message.
Christ instituted the Pastoral Office, committing to His ministers the duty of preaching the Word and administering the Sacraments. This is a separate institution from the Priesthood of all Believers. This discussion of Matthew 9 makes the Bible teaching clear and shows why Confessional Lutherans are set apart from generic Protestants or Evangelicals. The message is accompanied by the Rite of Communion for Ascension Day and hymns, "O Christ Who Called the Twelve," and "Send, O Lord, Your Holy Spirit on Your Servant."
This 3rd of three meditation on God's people influenced by their social and cultural context discusses the circumstances of the Babylonian exile in which God's people found themselves deprived of so much- home, temple, countrymen, familiar institutions. Yet God blessed them through suffering in that they clung to the promises of their faith so much the more. God can bless us even through disaster! This message is accompanied by the Brief Rite of Holy Communion and a choir anthem.
This 2nd of a series of 3 meditations reflects on God's people in different surroundings, the present one as settlers in the land of Canaan. They were tempted by their surrounding culture as we are today, and each generation had to learn anew to trust God's promises, usually through suffering. Portions of the evening service of Compline are included as also hymns of consolation, "Why Should Cross and Trial Grieve Me?", and "What God Ordains is Always Good."
The Holy Spirit is a person like the Father and the Son, co-equal in the Godhead; but because His nature is less concrete (the word "spirit" means wind, after all), and the nature of His work, we are inclined to forget that He is God and an essential part of our salvation. Dr. Zeile's message helps bring the work of the Spirit into focus in this Pentecost message. The canticle of praise to the Holy Trinity, the Te Deum Laudamus fittingly follows this exposition of Christian teaching.
The robust statement of faith tells us who God is and who Christ is, which are absolutely necessary to salvation.
This Easter message explains what the "new song" the Psalmist was talking about and why it is so appropriate at Easter. A choral selection for Easter is included, the Litany of the Resurrection, and Palestrina's powerful hymn, "The Strife is O'er, the Battle Done," with trumpet and tympany.
Dr. Zeile's homily for the Easter Vigil service on the night of Holy Saturday expresses the Bible teaching that in the early morning of Easter, Christ appeared as Victor in Satan's realm, proclaiming victory among all those held in prison, traditionally to all who slept with Abraham. Luther's hymn on this theme, "Christ Lag in Todesbanden" (Christ Jesus Lay in Death's Strong Bands) and the celebration of Holy Communion are included in this program.
This Easter meditation celebrates God's plan, foretold in the Psalm, of choosing One whom the leaders overlooked as His Champion to rescue His people. A choral selection for Easter and alternating hymns accompany this message, and a special reflection on Easter Sunrise service written by the late choir member Emma Kercek closes out this holiday program.
This meditation for Passion Sunday discusses our sin of projecting guilt on others, that is, blaming others for our own sin, assuming others will do to us what we'd like to do to them. However, all our guilt has been projected on to Jesus so that He has suffered to remove our guilt, so that we may have peace with God and make peace with people. The Palm Sunday hymn, "Ride On, Ride On in Majesty" with its climatic line "Ride on to Die" and the reading from Matthew 21 accompany this meditation.
Dr. Zeile reads Psalm 117 in the 16th Century translation included in the Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century version from the King James translation, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
Dr. Zeile reads Psalm 1 in the 16th Century translation included in the Book of Common Prayer, the 17th Century version from the King James translation, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rheims translation.
There are those who blame God for killing; and this shows that they do not know who God is, for He is the Creator who gives to each his life and should He withdraw His grace they fall into death. Therefore humility, not prideful ignorance, is the proper attitude toward God. Dr. Zeile's message for Passion Sunday (also known as Palm Sunday) lays out the Divine plan involving death and life implemented in Holy Week. A reading from the Passion account of Luke 23 and the Lenten hymn "Christ the Life of all the Living, Christ the Death of Death our Foe" are included in this program.
The Decalogue (Ten Commandments) is rehearsed as part of the Rite of Confession and Absolution (Forgiveness), followed by praying Psalm 32, "Blessed is the Man whose Transgression is Forgiven'" and Dr. Zeile's exposition on the Christian teaching concerning confessing sin. Classic hymns "Come to Calvary's Holy Mountain," and the Italian hymn to the Precious Blood, "Glory be to Jesus," are sung.
The Service of Evening Prayer (Vespers) includes the Lenten hymns "O Christ, You Walked the Road," and "Lamb of God, Pure and Holy," sometimes called the "German Agnus Dei." The meditation is based on Paul's words regarding the Christ's humiliation to the death of a criminal on the cross and the great reversal of His exultation to Divine Authority which will be acknowledged by all creation.
Complaining may be necessary at times, but can convince us that our benefactor is our enemy. God's gift to us is patience under duress, modeled for us by Christ whose suffering is the antidote to the poison of our complaining. Luther's hymn version of Psalm 67 is included in this program.
The Ash Wednesday Rite of Imposition of Ashes is followed by a meditation on the concept of the propitious, "pleasing to [the] God[s]." Our helplessness to please God is remedied by God Himself who gave His Son to make peace so that now the time to turn to Him is propitious. The sobering hymn, "Who Knows when Death may Overtake Me" accompanies this solemn occasion of reflection and repentance.
St. Paul points out that regret is a sign that we have served someone outside our present selves. The self in the past self was deceived or ignorant, if not actually irrational in demanding the things that lead to death and regret. Paul urges us to serve the living God, made possible by the giving of Jesus Christ, who suffered but passed into glory so that we may follow the same path! Elements of a service of Prayer and Preaching accompany this message and two recent hymn, "Fruitful Trees, the Spirit's Planting," and "Lord of our Life."
The Psalmist says, "Those who bow down to them become like them." Dr. Zeile unpacks the deeper meaning of the Psalmist's insight, and its opposite, the good news of what happens when we do the converse, worshipping the Highest Good. This message is accompanied by the Rite of Holy Communion, the holiest of Christian practices, and the classic hymn, "What is the World to Me!?"
This is part of a series of readings of the Psalms in three Classic English translations: the 16th Century Book of Common Prayer, the 1612 King James Version, and the 18th Century Challoner revision of the Douai-Rhiems translation.
"What difference does it make? Who Cares?" If these thoughts cross your mind then you need the message of Malachi where God tells us that He does notice- and bless- our every effort toward doing what is right and pleasing in His sight. This sermon is included in the service of Matins (Morning Prayer, based on the Psalms) with classic hymns "Lord of Glory Who Hath Bought us With Thy Lifeblood as the Price," and "Praise to the Lord, The Almighty."
For the Pastor's Circuit meeting a meditation on the challenging topic of "Slavery" based on regulations from Deuteronomy 25 was shared. This includes an intimate celebration of the Holy Communion sung without accompaniment.
This is a meditation on part of the popular Psalm which is accompanied by the Lutheran rite of Confession and Absolution, and the lovely hymn, "O Living Bread from Heaven" with one stanza based on imagery taken from the 23rd Psalm.
This is the choral service performed usually on the Third Sunday of Advent but featuring Luke's account of the Birth of Christ with choir selections performed by the Saint John's Lutheran Church (Taylor) choir directed by Wallace C. Winters, Jr. The meditation is on John the Baptist's question to Jesus as to whether He was the One to come or should we look for another. Whether to assure Himself or as a witness to his own disciples, John was checking to make sure he had it right. We receive assurance from Christ Himself through His Word that we have the Savior. Check that Word often!
When Simeon had seen the Christ-child he was ready to "depart in peace," ready to die, ready to go! Knowing that God fulfills His promise in Christ can make us ready to stay and serve, or ready to join Simeon and all the saints who have seen the Christ and trusted in the Lord. Live or die, its all (ultimately) good. This program includes the Rite of Holy Communion as celebrated on Candlemas, and the New Year hymn, Oh, Rejoice Ye Christians, Loudly.
This Christmas service includes readings & carols for the holy day, Vaughn Williams setting of O Little Town of Bethlehem, and the Last Gospel. The meditation is on Mary's joy at learning that she would be mother of the Savior.
This is an obscure prophecy or promise, made in the course of blessing. Dr. Zeile discusses both the Hebrew and Greek Bible's take on this name, which is related to "peace" and speaks of the "Prince of Peace." This is an Advent service of Evening Prayer with the Magnificat and litany sung by the congregation.
Paired with the liturgical announcement of Christmas and the Rite of Holy Communion, this Advent meditation considers the ladder Jacob saw which Christ alluded to in His John 1 discussion with Nathaniel. Christ is Himself the ladder, by means of which Divinity came to dwell on earth, and by which mere humans can attain eternal life in the Divine abode.
Luther's hymn on the Baptism of Christ connects the incident with the Sacrament and is appointed to be sung on the First Sunday after the Epiphany. Christ's baptism revealed the Holy Trinity- the Father speaking from the sky, the Sone receiving baptism, and the Spirit descending as a dove- and is sometimes called "Theophany" as opposed to epiphany.
We will always reward those who tell us what we want to hear, so there will be no end of opportunity for politicians or false prophets. A false prophet told Israel assembled the happy talk they wanted to believe, but Jeremiah had to challenge him openly with God's message. We must listen to God's message carefully even though it may not please us at first, for this life because of sin is tragic, but God's message will outlast this tragic existence.
The Psalmist celebrates the conflict between the Creator and the Creation, and there is NO doubt as to who will win! We have been blessed with insight so as to recognize the winning side in the comic conflict and have even been called to share the victory. Hymns of Advent and trust are included in this broadcast.
This Holy Saturday meditation reflects on the human pain and psychological shame endured by Jesus the Christ in His passion and death. "No greater love can a man have than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." By this, Jesus has made us friends with Himself, and friends with God Whom we had offended by our sin, but now we can approach to find grace, favor, and welcome. Psalm 86, the Litany, and the Easter chorale "Christ Jesus lay in Death's Strong Bands" are included in this program.
If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then the highest praise of God is when our lives imitate that of Christ, God-made-Human for our salvation. St. Paul is confident in his own imitation of Christ and urges us to do the same. The saints are models of faith for believers in differing stations of life , and fellow believers who share with us the high calling of God. Excerpts of the All Saints' liturgy and hymns make this particularly inspiring episode.
This message for Reformation festival reflects on Christ's promise to free His people from condemnation of the law and slavery to sin by the Word of the Gospel. WE are made free, not just in the sense of being cut loose, but made part of the family of God, an heir and co-owner with all the Household of God owns. We are made free not by our continuous obligation to do good works, but by the gift of faith which is active in our hearts through love. The message is accompanied by portions of Martin Luther's "German Mass," parts of the liturgy sung in chorale form.
The Psalmist celebrates God's Word under many titles in Psalm 119 which has one section for each letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Dr. Zeile's discussion points out the power in the Word which makes things happen. Thus the power to believe is God's and not the power of human decision-making. Thus our faith is not in ourselves but in the Lord who has called us by the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Word made Flesh, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Dr. Zeile discusses the sin of worry which is the converse of Trust, the gift of God which allows us to let God do His work while we focus on what we can do. Satan often robs us of our joy as well as our productivity through this sin. It is one of his favorites because we will offer us pleasure if it gets us to sin, the sin of worry torments us as well!
Psalm 43 speaks of the Christ because the Psalmist had the Spirit of Christ who went to the altar of God. Dr. Zeile explains the significance of the altar as the meeting place between God and Man, a place of sacrifice, a table for those who share in eating the sacrifice, and a symbol of Christ cherished in most traditional Christian Churches- Lutheran, Catholic, Orthodox. A reading of James 5, the Gerhardt hymn. "Upon the Cross Extended," and the Thomas Kelly hymn out of the English tradition, "We Sing the Praise of Him Who Died," complete the program.
In time for Reformation Day (October 31) we share Luther's Order of Communion Liturgy as celebrated at St. John's Lutheran Church, Taylor, Michigan on Reformation Sunday.
Christ gives practical instructions to His disciples on how to pray, most strikingly in the parable of the Unjust Judge." If persistence pays off with those unfriendly to us, how much MORE will it pay off for those who address their entreaties to a Heavenly Father who loves them! Psalm 50 ("Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver you") is prayed, and 3 great hymns regarding prayer are included in this broadcast.
Job's reward after suffering- restored health, a new family, returned wealth- have struck readers as superficial and unsatisfying. If that is all there is, they are right. Dr. Zeile points out the underlying reward that is only betokened by the earthly restoration of Job. The Easter hymn O Filii et Filiae (O Sons & Daughters of the King)is sung along with Psalm 147, Colossians 1 is read, and the classic Lutheran hymn Who Trusts in God a Strong Abode concludes the program.
Job did not know it but he suffered for God's glory, that others might find in his bitter experience reason to praise God. He was a precursor of Jesus Christ whose suffering was for the ultimate glory of God in the salvation of souls. Dr. Zeile meditates on this solemn truth: Psalm 107 is prayed and the Communion is celebrated in this broadcast.
We are tempted to think that Job's situation is unique; but it is universal, for there is an arc to life; after we have achieved our peak, our children move away, our health begins to deteriorate, loved ones begin to die off, and we ourselves reach a point where, without faith in God, we have nothing to look forward to. Dr. Zeile develops these thoughts in this installment in his series on Job. General Confession, prayers, and the hymn of Savanarola, "Jesus, Refuge of the Weary," are included in this broadcast.
A "mystery" is something that cannot be explained, analogous to a hole too deep to observe the bottom. Suffering cries out for an explanation, yet too often none is given this side of the grave. Job survived just such suffering and Christ undertook the same on our behalf. Dr. Zeile points out that we have a Savior who has suffered for us and with us. The mystery will not overpower those whom Christ has redeemed. Psalm 51 us prayed and the message is preceded by and followed by choral Good Friday anthems.
The words of Job 10 could have been spoken by Christ from the cross. In this Good Friday meditation from a series on the book of Job, Dr. Zeile reflects on how our suffering is united with and redeemed by the suffering Son of God. Lamentations 2 is prayed and classic Good Friday hymns are sung: "Hear us Holy Jesus" (based on the Seven Words from the Cross), and the German Agnus Dei, "Lamb of God, Pure and Holy."
Fasting has been a Christian practice for centuries, and assumed in the New Testament, but has fallen off in this last century of plenty. Dr. Zeile develops Isaiah's message about an acceptable fast into guidance for modern believers. Psalm 84 is prayed, along with Compline prayers and the hymns include Franzmann's "Thy Strong Word," and the early medieval hymn "Hark, a Thrilling Voice is Sounding!"
Does marriage have a future beyond "Death do us part"? Dr. Zeile reviews Christ's surprising teaching on this point, a message of deep hope for every Christian spouse. This broadcast includes special prayers for America and for farmers, the Magnificat, and the hymn "Evening and Morning."
After the I John 3 epistle and sequence hymn, Dr. Zeile develops the promise of Christ in John 14 that the promised Holy Spirit would bring all things to the Apostles' rememberance. To "re-member" is to reconnect, and the promise pertains not merely to recalling facts, but connecting the events of salvation and the teachings of Jesus to believers of every age. Christ's words in the Lord's Supper, "Do this to remember Me," are understood as having great power for in that sacrament we not onlt recall His sacrifice, but are connected to it, and this helps us understand why He emphasized that communicants receive not just bread and wine, but His very Body and Blood.
Continuing the series on Job, this message, delivered on Holy Thursday (Maundy Thursday) meditates on Job's anxiety, the mental suffering he experienced, and the even greater suffering that Christ undertook for us when He sweat blood in Gethsemane. Lenten readings precede the message and the classic Lutheran hymn is sung, "A Lamb goes Uncomplaining Forth."
A brief exhortation to use the gift of self-government God has given to us as Americans.
From the series "St. Paul Speaks about the Cross," this meditation reflects Paul's insight that peace with God enables us to be at peace with ourselves and others. Psalm 121 is prayed, and the parables of Luke 15 are read, along with the Magnificat, litany, and Lord's Prayer from Vespers, concluding with the hymn "If Thy Beloved Son, O God, Had not to Earth Descended."
The second in an eight-part series on Job deals with the Dream of Eliphaz. Eliphaz was a friend of Job who had come to comfort but fell into arguing and reproving Job. In the dream he relates a specter tells him that no one is pleasing to God. Eliphaz misapplies this to Job, insisting that Job must be suffering because he displeased God, but the true meaning is that ALL are in need of grace and forgiveness and All need to repent, each of his own sin. Lenten readings accompany this message.
This begins an eight-part series of messages on Job. Dr. Zeile discusses the role of Satan whose name means "accuser" in accusing Job before God. After the first chapter he is not heard from again! So Satan's game is, in part, to make trouble and watch from the sidelines. We can avoid Satan's work when we stop accusing others and wait upon God.
Portions of Vespers (Evening Prayer) are included in this episode along with Dr. Zeile's meditation on St. Paul's words concerning enemies of the Cross. They are those who object to Christ's suffering on our behalf, and even more of our suffering in following Christ. They want to replace Christ's atonement with something else, and we ourselves may object to the cost of following Christ, and thus becomes enemies of the Cross as well. The classic hymn, "When I Survey the Wonderous Cross" reminds us to pour contempt on our pride in our own works.
After the Confession rite and prior to the Communion rite, Dr. Zeile speaks on the Divine perspective regarding the believer's death. From the human perspective death, especially at the hands of God's enemies, appears to be a painful defeat; but in God's eyes, it is the ultimate victory and for the faithful soul it becomes the gate to eternal life and the victory of the saints.
After the rehearsal of the Ten Commandments and singing of the hymn, "In the Cross of Christ I Glory," Dr. Zeile meditates on St. Paul's words regarding the offense that many took regarding the Cross of Christ, namely His suffering as a criminal in place of sinful humankind. Many are offended today at the thought that their sin requires punishment, that they are answerable to God, that God should stoop down to a criminal's experience. This is only natural on the part of people untouched by God's Spirit, but to those who are saved, those enabled to believe this message, the Cross is the wisdom and power of God.
When Luther heard that two Augustinian monks had been burned at the stake in Brussles for defending the doctrine of salvation by faith apart from works, he wrote a ballad telling their story. Several stanzas constitute a hymn to the martyrs and is set to a later tune.
The 6th Century confession of faith by the Western Church affirms the two defining doctrines of universal Christianity, the identity of God as three persons (Trinity) in one God (Unity), and the incarnation ("enfleshment") of the second person of God as Jesus Christ.
Christ's discourse about the end times is perplexing- events we can date, like the destruction of the Jerusalem temple by the Romans in A.D.70, or the persecution of Christians are jumbled with the End of the world and Christ's own return to judge. Dr. Zeile's message points out that God's judgment transcends time, breaking in on human history at certain points before it engulfs the temporal world in God's triumph. This is joyful news to those who love God and trust in His design, but terror to those who have not yet made their peace with Him. Use the time now to accept Christ's offer of peace with God and joy at the End.
Psalm 84 celebrates the Pilgrim's journey to the Jerusalem Temple to worship God. Such journeys are deeply meaningful because our lives are a journey to God. This worship program for the week of Holy Trinity Sunday includes the Athanasian Creed and the hymn, "St.Patrick's Breastplate."
This Easter Week program begins with a meditation on the Pandemic caused by the Corona Virus, followed by the joyful Easter hymn, "O Sons and Daughters of the King." The message recalls God's confrontation with Job who could not answer God's questions ("Were you there when I created the world?"); what Job could not do, Jesus could; therefore He is the Redeemer Job longed for who promises resurrection to everlasting life for all believers. We conclude with the Eastertide "Litany of the Resurrection."
Isaiah 53 states that the Suffering Servant would make His grave with the rich and with the wicked. In the ancient world, this was somewhat of a riddle for the rich were regarded as favored by God. This message for Easter Eve (or Easter Vigil) discusses the burial of Christ with its signs of reversal to come. Beginning with the classic Good Friday burial hymn, "O Darkest Woe," the program concludes with the Baptism renewal rite of the Vigil service.
The program begins with Evening Prayer and a portion of the Passion History. The message, based on Isaiah 53, "He was despised and afflicted, yet did not open His mouth," meditates on the Savior's silence in situations where we would probably scream and curse. The classic Lutheran hymn, "Thousand, Thousand Thanks Shall be, Dearest Jesus unto Thee," concludes this Holy Week meditation.
This Lenten message discusses Paul's assertion that the Cross where the Son of God suffered manifested the Power of God to overthrow all earthly powers. The Vaughan Williams hymn, "No Tramp of Soldiers Marching Feet," begins the program and it is concluded with the Magnificat and prayers from Vespers, and a Choir anthem "Who Is That Man?"
Lutherans, like the Early Church, believe that the power of God reaches us in the sacrament, making us His child in baptism. One does not need to be an adult to inherit salvation, though one must be taught its value; therefore Lutherans only baptize when there is the promise of continuing to grow in Christian faith with the Church, and this applies to adults as well as children.
When Christ healed ten lepers, only the foreigner returned to thank Him. Sometimes we who are familiar with Jesus, or think we know Him, or have been raised in the religion think we are entitled and take God's gifts for granted. The message is accompanied by the classic Lutheran hymn, "Lord, to Thee I Make Confession," the rite of Confession & Absolution, and the Ash Wednesday Communion Rite.
After Psalm 91 is prayed with the congregation, the meaning of God's promise to be with us in trouble is explored. Sometimes God helps us avoid trouble, as when we follow God's laws and avoid the trouble that comes to those who wrong others. Sometimes God gives us the strength to endure and forgive those who have wronged us. And at still other times, God sustains us through trouble so that we may receive a blessing, whether material or spiritual. In all these, He is with us to overcome all real trouble in Christ Jesus who endured all things to deliver us from the final trouble, the curse of sin. This meditation is followed by the hymn, "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," the Ash Wednesday prayer and dismissal.
Readings for the Transfiguration are heard, and then the 15th Century office hymn "O Wondrous Type" is sung. The sermon emphasizes St. Peter's surprising contention that the Scripture record is even more sure that the eyewitness testimony that Peter himself offers. This is followed by another Transfiguration hymn and the celebration of Holy Communion.
The Service of the Word for the First Sunday in Lent is heard (Genesis 3, Hebrews 4, the Choir anthem "Lamb of God", and Matthew 4), followed by the meditation on Galatians 6:14, Paul's exhortation to boast only in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. What God has done for us on the Cross is so much more significant and determinantive for our life than any thing we have done.
The Matins opening includes Malachi 6 and Colossians 1 and leads into the Luke 6 account of the Rich Man and Lazarus with particular focus on that rich man's regret, the reality of Hell, and its connection- and congruence- with our everyday experiences. Christ gives us -through this very message- the opportunity to avoid the ultimate regret by embracing the gift He has come to give us. The broadcast concludes with the Benedictus and hymn, "Thousand, Thousand Thanks Shall be, Dearest Jesus unto Thee!"
After the hymn, "I Know My Faith is Founded" comes a meditation on the Psalm 31 declaration that God is our rock of rescue." The advantage that fighting from a rock gives to a warrior is explained and how this informs the psalmist's meaning. The idea that "Savior" means rescuer is also explained as we realize all that Christ rescues us from. The ends with a hymn "Great is Thy Faithfulness," the Litany and Lord's Prayer.
The general in an army is "over all" the others, and the General Prayer is intended to be all-inclusive. This is from June 2018.
Loosely based on the Te Deum, this particular prayer of adoration was taken from the 1974 Worship Supplement.
The Kyrie at the beginning of the service was sometimes expanded as in the deacon's litany, or in this praying of the Ten Commandments ("Decalog") similar to that found in the Anglican Book of Common Prayer. It serves as a kind of examination of conscience prior to the general confession and absolution (forgiveness pronounced by the pastor).
The Candlemas Blessing is followed by the message which races the appeal of Christ's teaching, not only in the First Century A.D., but in every Century since. Join the billion people today who listen to Jesus' teaching and acknowledge Him as God and Savior!
Excerpts from Matins/Vespers accompany Dr. Zeile's message based on Psalm 18's commendation of humility as the condition of true worship toward God and reconciliation toward fellow creatures.
Jesus said we could not follow Him unless we HATE? Dr. Zeile explains the use of hyperbole in the Lord's rhetoric and the challenge that we face in loving the Lord more than His many and various gifts, including dearest family members. Excerpts of evening prayer, the litany and blessing are included as well as the hymn based on Ezekiel, "As Surely as I live," God Said, "I would not see the sinner dead, but that he turn from error's ways, repent and live for endless days."
After the Decalogue (Ten Commandments) the message applies Jesus' words "Take heed (Pay attention) unto yourselves!." Every Christian is called to honest self-knowledge and self-awareness before presuming to judge others' actions. Such self-knowledge leads to humility and confession, and the opportunity to receive forgiveness and healing from Christ.
This excerpt from the close of the Good Friday Tenebrae service serves as a brief Lenten devotion.
An "epiphany" is a manifestation of a god, or one's experience of this. Christ was manifest as God at His Baptism when the Father spoke from the sky, at the wedding of Cana when He turned water into wine, and at the Transfiguration when Moses and Elijah appeared with Him on Mt. Tabor. But the first manifestation of Christ's divinity was the star that guided the wise men who brought Him gifts of tribute. Thus began God's outreach to the gentiles (non-Jews), and the nations have been bringing tribute ever since. St. Paul discloses this mystery hinted at but kept hidden in the Old Testament as God's desire to redeem all His fallen children through Christ.
During the Lenten season from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday, the Church does not use or sing the Alleluia/Hallelujah (which means "praise the Lord"). This hymn arose for use on Quinquagesima Sunday in the One-Year calendar, often accompanied by a banner with "Alleluia" carried out of the sanctuary, as the last hymn. Churches that utilize the Three-Year calendar make use of this hymn on the last Sunday after Epiphany which is celebrated in the Lutheran Church as the Transfiguration.
This sermon is for the New Year's Day gospel which tells of Christ's circumcision on the eighth day after His birth. He began with the end in mind, His end being to suffer in our place under the Law of God. This He did in His circumcision according to the law of Moses, shedding His innocent infant blood for us. It reminds us that His entire life was His cross, born for us and with us, that we might be with Him in Paradise.
Psalm 110 declares the Christ to be "a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek." This priest was described in Genesis 14 as "King of Salem" and "Priest of God most high," whose name meant "King of righteousness." He received a tithe from Abraham and blessed the ancestor of Israel. In all this he prefigures the Christ who even presenting "gifts of bread and wine," suggesting the gift of Holy Communion Christ gave to His followers.
The Church's night prayer is Compline. This opening with Psalm 104 is an 8-minute evening prayer suitable for preparing for sleep or settling thoughts while driving home after a late night evening meeting.
This classic prayer is heard at the end of the classic black and white movie "Titanic."
The annual Choral Service at St. John's Lutheran Church of Taylor, Michigan, features choir selections interspersed among the reading of Luke 2.
Evangelicals rarely speak of Christ's mother, and when they do, it is sometimes with a slighting attitude, an eagerness to put her in her place contrary to Roman Catholic excess. But this "Most Blessed of Women" dare not be slighted by anyone with the mind of Christ, for she is our greatest witness of the miracle of the Incarnation, and she is the model of Christian faith. When a woman of the crowd blessed the woman who nursed Him, Christ pointed out the true source of His Mother's blessedness saying, "Blessed are those who hear the Word of God and keep it." The woman who witnessed the birth and adoration of the Son of God "treasured all these things in her heart."
St. Paul explains how we become sons, or heirs, of Abraham who was given great and glorious promises- not by outward conformity to the law of circumcision, but through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Children spontaneously sing when their needs are met and they are enjoying life. These are songs of thanksgiving! They are even more appropriate from us who realize how marvelously God has provided for every want of body and soul.
People have learned to recognize the signs of weather, but many fail to read the signs of the times that point to Christ's teaching that this world will pass away but His promises with not.
The Christmas Eve service at St. John's Lutheran Church in Taylor, Michigan, ends with the lighting of candles for the Last Gospel, John 1:1-14, which points us to the mystery of the Word Made Flesh, the Light coming into the world. This is enveloped by hymns and carols.
Originally for ALL SAINTS' DAY, this message reflects on God's victory through His saints, often mistaken by the world for defeat, but witnessed by the continuous witness of the Church and believers of every age.
Hymn "Rejoice O Pilgrim Throng" is followed by Vespers (Evening Prayer), the Psalm 119 introit, Mark 16 and the Creed. Then is the Sermon on Isaiah 44 "You are Witnesses" which makes the point that the people of God today are evidence of the truth of God's message, as surely as a footprint is evidence of an intruder. We can either believe this or reject it but we are evidence and proof either way. The Magnificat concludes the order of Evening Prayer (Vespers).
The hymn "A Multitude Comes from the East and the West" is followed by Luke 13 and sermon on Christ's answer to the question whether few are saved which answer is personal rather than theoretical, directing us to work on our own lives rather than speculate about others. There follows the hymn, "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," and the Rite of Holy Communion.
Psalm 51 is followed by Luther's hymn on Psalm 130 "From Depths of Woe I Cry to Thee." There follows the sermon on Romans 5, an exposition of the doctrine of original (or inherited) sin which is the reason for universal death. The Lamb of God is sung followed by Corporate Confession and Absolution.
The Venite (Psalm 95) is followed by Psalm 30, and the message based on Luke 10's depiction of Mary and Martha and the balance that is needed in the believer's life. The Lutheran Women's Missionary League hymn "Serve the Lord with Gladness" is sung, followed by the LWML Pledge, and the Lord's Prayer.
This second Coast to Coast broadcast of Martin Luther's Evening Prayer conatins the Kyrie & collect, Matthew 13 parable of the Sower, Apostles' Creed, hymn "Speak O Lord Your Servant Heareth," the sermon on Isaiah 55 which describes God's Word as seed that accomplishes what He desires. The Hymn, "Preach You the Word," follows.
The Advent Wreath is blessed using Psalm versicles and a collect. Then the hymn "Prepare the Royal Highway" based on Isaiah 40 is sung.
This 19th Century Basque hymn was arranged by Sabine Barring-Gould who also wrote words for "Onward Christian Soldiers."
This is the first of our programs broadcast outside the Detroit area in Bakersfield, CA; Omaha, NE; Council Bluffs, IA; Monroe, MI; Richmond, VA; Scranton, PA, and Wilkes-Barre, PA! This includes the introit, Gospel of Luke 12, hymn "O Little Flock Fear not the Foe," sermon on "Worry," Creed, hymn "We Give Thee but Thine Own," Lord's Prayer, and the choir singing "In Thee is Gladness."
The end of the Church Year deals with the Last Things- Death, Judgment, Christ's return, and Eternal Life. Psalm 39 asks what our purpose is in this passing life. We confuse specific and general directions for our lives and thus mistake our purpose. Our purpose is love and love is meeting the needs of others, and their greatest need is for God. When we reflect the love of God in our service to others, we are finding our own purpose.
The power Paul speaks of in the Thessalonian church is present to the Church today when we are plugged into God's Word. The power of God comes through the Word as found in the Bible, and the Sacraments Christ instituted. Where believers gather around these the Church is formed.
The conversion of Paul from persecutor to missionary illustrates God's sovereign will in calling us to faith.
Hunger shows our need for food, but without knowledge we may consume what is poisonous. God guides us us to food that is nourishing for the body and also for the soul.
"He gives to his beloved sleep." God's gift is not worry and care, but confidence and the gift of rest when we sleep. The world continues when we have checked out and we can be confident that God is the One who sustains it.
"Easy as pie" we say, but have you ever made a pie from scratch? Yet there are some ways in which the Kingdom of God may be compared to this common baked item.
The love of a father is different from the love of a mother. Fathers can walk away. If a father is in your life it is by his choice and not by his need. God is such a Father who chooses to concern Himself with us as His children. He needs nothing from us, but gave His dearly beloved Son to save us.
Human instinct relies on its own goodness or righteousness. But this is part of the self-justifying self-centeredness which shows we are lost in sin. We need a better righteousness provided by another, what Luther calls an alien righteousness. Jesus Chriost has provided that so that we rely on Him alone to be made right with God.
Americans stress individual sin to the extent that we overlook corporate sin, the sin that envelopes us through social acceptance. We are to repent of our part in such corporate sin and beware of the consequence of such sin to the body guilty of such.
St. Paul struggles with the heartache that comes to those who love the lost, those who refuse the message of salvation in Christ. Many believers today suffer great heartache when their children reject the faith. This love for the lost is a burden that Christ has for each of those who reject Him and we are invited to share that burden of love with Him.
The Commandments are recited with a prayer that our hearts may incline toward God's revealed will
The Lord's Supper is celebrated by Lutherans emphasizing the Real Presence of Christ in the elements offered to the communicants.
This creed is used on Trinity Sunday because it spells out the Christian teaching on who God is- Father Son and Holy Spirit, three persons and yet one God, and on who Christ is- God and Man in the same person.
The Tre Ore devotions are prayed during the "Three Hours" of darkness during which Christ hung upon the cross, Noon to 3:00 p.m. This is part one, Noon to 12:30 p.m.
A Meditation for the Tenebrae service on Good Friday evening based on a text from Ruth whose mother-in-law Naomi took the name Mara (Mary) because of the loss of her sons.
Christians emphasize right teaching about God, based on the Bible, and only this can be the basis for right praise of God. Psalm 145 exhibits this, and one sign of an orthodox church is that her people pray the Psalms. The devil gives us false expectations of God and then uses our disappointment to destroy our faith. Our confidence is based on what God has promised, not on what He hasn't.
This meditation considers our present experience of knowing Christ by His Word (His message) which is the "third Advent" after the first (His birth in Bethlehem fulfilling Old Testament prophecy), and the second (His coming to judge the world at the end of time).
The Church's night prayer, Compline, is prayed and a homily explains the meaning of Advent- the season of anticipation of the arrival of our promised Lord.
Several choral selections celebrate the advent of our Savior. St. John's Lutheran Church Adult Choir is directed by Wallace C. Winters, Junior.
God foretold the prophet Isaiah that Death will not have the last word for God's people.
We have received forgiveness from God; but it may not stop there. Like water in a pipe, forgiveness must flow through us to others. It is not a law that we must forgive in order to be forgiven, but IF we are forgiven, we will extend that forgiveness to others. Matthew 18 gives a picture of how this might work in the Christian community.
What do we have in common with the great heroes of faith we commonly think of as saints? The same power of God for the gift of faith is what. So we rejoice in our shared salvation and look forward to what God will reveal us to be when He appears.
When the Lord Jesus Christ returns at the end of time, the dead will be raised and we who are alive will be taken up to meet the Lord in the sky(Heavens) and will be forever with the Lord. Some are mislead by false teachings, notably that of the Schofield Reference Bible, popularized in the "Left Behind" best sellers/movies, which speak of earth's continued existence after the Rapture. The Biblical teaching is that the Rapture is part of the Last Day/Judgment Day/Dooms Day, on which Christ is manifest as Lord to the joy of believers and to the dispair of unbelievers.
Sin seems like play until it catches you in its grip. David was trapped by his own sin, and to escape he committed more and grosser sin. But God's mercy was manifested to David to confront his sin, and to repent. It cost David the life of his son- the infant born of his sin, and later, the promised Son o who was both David's Son and David's Lord. We can learn from David's example that no saint is beyond falling, and no sinner is beyond redemption.
Ruth's family knew poverty, yet it made her open to the love of Israel's God. We may learn that God's message of grace works in the lives of those whose circumstances make public disgrace unavoidable, yet they have greater faith than those whose pride blinds them to their equal need.
Always tell the truth! But do you know the truth? Often, we mistake a small part of the truth, often our own perception/perspective for the whole truth. Telling the truth requires humility and wilingness to listen as well as to tell.
"When you are invited to a feast," Jesus said, "Take the lowest place..." While our culture often celebrates self-assertion, there is much practical, as well as spiritual advantage in humility.
If clothes make the man, we need to put on the Lord Jesus Christ! Advent invites us to examine our lives as to what values they exhibit. Repentance, turning to God, is required!
Change just the location name, and the passage from Paul's first letter to the church in Thessalonika sounds like it could have been written by the great reformer, Martin Luther. That is because the Reformation movement of the 16th Century was at its heart the recovery of the Gospel of grace through faith in Christ.
Jesus' experience with the ten lepers, only one of whom gave thanks, reminds us of what the other nine missed out on by failing to give thanks.
An Advent meditation on the Day of the Lord and what this implies for good and for ill, for judgment and for vindication- messages of Law and Gospel.
Abraham is admired by 3 great religions. St. Paul points out that he is the exemplar of faith because his sin was forgiven because God counted his faith as righteousness. This applies to us today- we are saved by faith in God's promise, centered on the Seed promised to Abraham, Jesus Christ.
We implore God's mercy on Ash Wednesday as we recall our sin, our need for repentance, and our need for Christ's saving work.
Returning good for evil is often the means to overcome evil and change the heart of an enemy. If not, that enemy is shamed and embarrassed by your generosity. Christ has done so for the world, died and forgiven us. Will it change our hearts? Or merely make us who reject it feel burning coals?
The Bidding Prayer is one of the oldest portions of the Roman mass, preserved in the Good Friday liturgy.
Enemies tried to intimidate Christ, but He knew He would die at God's choosing, and so made choices making good use of the time.
We are not helpless victims of circumstance, but can plan and work for peace. But how? Understanding what makes for peace is essential to the task.
There is wisdom in recognizing that not everyone who gives you what you want is your friend, and not everyone who hurts you is your enemy. Which is God to you?
By nature, our hearts are narrowly focused on that which gratifies us; but the heart of Christ embraces even enemies. By Christ's example, teaching, and Holy Spirit, we are empowered for love.
Change equals uncertainty. In times of change our expectations are confounded and that feels unfair. We need a relationship with the One who never changes, who can give us perspective on our lives.
In a building there are some things which are incidental, and some which are essential. None is more important than the foundation upon which all else rests. Is Christ your foundation? or is He merely a bit of decoration like a lawn ornament in your life?
Do I make myself believe? Luther points out, "I cannot by my own reason of strength believe in Jesus Christ my Lord or come to Him. But the Holy Spirit has called me by the gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, even as He calls, gathers, enlightens and sanctifies the whole Christian church on earth and keeps it with Jesus Christ in the one true faith.
When someone asked Jesus about folks who died in tragic circumstances, He did not reassure them; rather He said, "Unless you repent you will all likewise perish!" This makes understanding repentance of crucial importance.
The early church seems to have had many signs and wonders to confirm the message of Christ. Why don't we have them anymore?
God wishes us to understand our lives in the light of His gift of Jesus. This gives eternal life and a meaningful, fulfilling life now.
In this message for Trinity Sunday, God's character is outlined from His works, specifically Creation, Redemption, and Sanctification.
Sometimes we don't understand the way things are. We try to change them but find unanticipated loss therefrom. St. Paul urges Timothy and the whole Church to strictly guard what God has given in the Gospel of Christ lest we lose some or all of the blessing intended for His people.
David's sin with Bathsheba was forgiven by God. But the son he had by her was to die. when we understand the true consequences of our sins, remember the innocent son of David who died.
Because we don't trust God, we want to live by the law; but the law always accuses, condemns. How much better to live by grace, freely giving and receiving!
A little understood part of the Apostles' Creed is the clause, "He descended into hell." He did this not to suffer, but to proclaim victory over the devil in his own territory! It is the beginning of His Easter triumph, thrown into the teeth of the enemy before revealing this good news to His friends!
St. Paul explains to the Ephesians what the mystery was for ages that was unlocked by the coming of the Messiah.
The Psalmist foresaw that God would keep His promise to David that David's son should rule forever, and this is declared in the heavens. When the promise was fulfilled at Christmas, angels sang "Glory to God in the highest, and peace, good will toward men!"
God made us brothers and sisters when His Son became flesh in Christ Jesus. Christ took on our sin so that we could receive His blessedness. That is a Christmas gift!
Christ was the Son of David and the promised Messiah who would reign forever. Certain qualities in His ancestors, the kings of Judah, are worth noting and meditating upon during the Advent season. Zerubbabel, Governor during the restoration of the Jewish state, led God's people to rebuild the temple, foreshadowing the work of Jesus Christ.
Christians can miss the point of their faith, and have repeatedly throughout history. Luther's Reformation should be remembered as a time when God used Luther and other reformers to call the Church back to the theme Solomon speaks of in Proverbs 22, "that our trust may be in the Lord." Solomon emphasizes the importance of handing on these hard-won teachings because our witness is not merely individual, but corporate, as part of God's people, Christ's Body, the Church.
This is a reading of Mark 14-15 by the Pastor, Elder, and congregation of St. John's Lutheran Church, Taylor, on Palm/Passion Sunday.
Dr. Zeile, in his capacity as member of Michigan's State Board of Education, speaks at the commencement of the Springport High School in June, 2012
After disaster which Joe saw as God's act, came relief and recovery which Joel saw as God's doing. God deals with us both through pain and pleasure, blessing and sorrow, but His true will is shown in blessing, and the punishments are given for the sake of ultimate blessing. Therefore, we should give thanks in all circumstances.
One of the Devil's favorite tricks is to convince us that God made certain promises which He didn't, and then get us to blame God when those promises appear to be broken. For example, many Christians believe falsely that their faith will keep them from suffering like other sinners. On the contrary, we may suffer for our sins, AND we may suffer for the sake of the Gospel. The latter is blessed while the former is simply that of the world.
The choral service in anticipation of Christmas features readings and anthems that celebrate Christ's birth.
Another royal ancestor of Christ was Josiah, Judah's last good king. He rediscovered the Law and its penalties and lead his people in repentance and revival before the final destruction of the kingdom. This is part 2 of an Advent series.
David was the father of Judah's kings and was promised a Son who would rule forever as the Son of God (II Sam.7). This series for Advent, the preChristmas season begins with another royal ancestor of the Christ, Joash, who was rescued as a child from destruction.
"The Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is insight." We summarize the knowledge God reveals about Himself as the "Holy Trinity" that Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are three persons, yet one God. This insight is given only to those who will receive it, whose hearts God has prepared.
We trust our doctors with our lives; nothing is more important than the trustworthiness of what we believe. Solomon points out that God's truth is trustworthy not just for life, but for the soul. Find out what God does to give us that trust in the right things by listening to Dr. Zeile's message on Proverbs 14.
The Sabbath rest has been misunderstood by those who see the day as sacred and fail to see that Christ fulfilled the Sabbath commandment and directed us to the true source of rest, Himself. Listen to Dr. Zeile's message based on Matthew 11.
Some sins evoke strong aversion to us, and God has strong aversion to certain sins. Are you and I tainted with one or more of these without realizing it? Listen to this message on Proverbs 6:16-19.
Ever heard the expression, "So loud as to wake the dead"? There is a power in the Word of God that calls the dead to life, both spiritually and physically. The dead don't "make a decision for Christ," and until Christ reaches us with His powerful Word, we will not believe either. This means all praise for our being saved goes to God alone! Our response ought to be one of humility, especially toward others.
Every Christian faces temptation. While it cannot be eliminated, there are things we can do to minimize the danger of falling. When God gives us the desire to do what is pleasing to Him, we respond by recognizing and avoiding temptations- using His gifts to do His will! The grace of Christ which forgives past sin serves to break the otherwise unstoppable momentum toward death and damnation for us.
This ministry provides Lutheran books to mission churches for children and pastoral training. Their distribution of Luther's catechism has persuaded many groups and individuals to embrace the Word and Sacrament teaching of the Bible with its emphasis on God's grace active in our lives. Check out their site on Facebook!
In this Thanksgiving Day sermon, the story of the Ten Lepers who were healed by Christ (but only one returned to give thanks) is reviewed for reasons people don't give thanks. They may apply to you and me!
The Proverbs offer many insights into life that are obvious even to unbelievers. Like all people, the wicked have hopes, but their hopes are vain. Are we among the wicked, or are our hopes well founded? Each of us must examine his hopes to see if they account for God's will.
This service held at Lutheran High School Westland (Michigan) includes a homily about the Gifts of the Spirit which enable us to belive and follow Christ. We do not give God anything; rather we accept His gifts which is above all His presence in our lives. That is what drives out guilt, sin, creates that "personal relationship' (saving relationship) with Christ and gives meaning to our lives of service. And it transforms us into creatures who can enjoy the presence of God forever!
Elder David Valenti is in the Michigan District LCMS deacon training program. This is his first sermon at St. John's Lutheran Church in Taylor, Michigan, and it begins with a powerful illustration that applies to every Christian and to every potential Christian. See yourself in this message!
This message based on Proverbs 14:28 was delivered at the Joint Ascension Day service held at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Taylor, Michigan. It points out the true answer to the query, "Will those saved be few?"
This Easter sermon on Matthew 28 is in the antiphonal ("call & answer") style that the late Rev. Stephen Long loved to preach on Easter. You will be answering aloud, as well!
The World is fickle- the crowds hailed Christ as Messiah on Palm Sunday, but called for His crucifixion on Good Friday. Is your life like that? The Christian life certainly is!
The Proverbs have something to say about practical matters such as justice, observing that some do and some do not understand it. It turns out that understanding turns on belief, faith, coming to terms with God.
We may imagine that God loves us because of what we have done- good works, made a decision for Him, avoided particular sins we see others doing- yet that is not at all true! Compared to others, we are nobody special, except that God has chosen to have mercy, give us faith in the Savior, and draw us to Himself. Being saved is not a matter of our desserts, but of God's grace in Christ! This is a comfort when we feel defeated, guilty, unworthy, or confused. It also demolishes our pride when we imagine ourselves better than others.
This message on Ezekiel 33 directs us to the need and the pitfalls of confronting others with God's message. Not fear for ourselves, but love for others is the right motive for confronting others. In this as in so much else, Christ shows us how.
For some people, life is a game whereby they try to "one up" everyone else, taking advantage of superior intelligence, social standing, economic positioning, or strength. God has a message, delivered by the prophet Amos for them!
This message from Romans discusses how the Christian experiences ambiguity and deals with it. Many of life's decisions are not determined- God has given us choices. This is a blessing we can give thanks for, not a burden. God gives general principles or values and truths that we live by, but we obey as sons & daughters who know the Father's will, not as mindless slaves whose obedience is forced or mechanical.
The God of creation is the God of Life. His coming into our world makes life revive; His coming into our lives gives us an eternal life. This is why we long for God to come to us who are dying!
In Acts 17, St. Paul speaks to the philosophers of Athens, carefully describing where the Gospel agrees with the findings of philosophy, and also where faith is required, and that centers on the Resurrection of God's Son.
Luke describes the early Church's life together as "holding all things in common.". Is there any connection between this and how Christians live today?
We all suffer from this disease- but some manifest symptoms and incur shame & shunning, while others manifest no obvious symptoms yet. Quacks claim many cures, but they are lies. Only Christ's messengers offer the true cure.