Devotions for Worship: Recent Episodes
Pastor Eric Tritten
This sermon continues a series of sermons on Jesus’ parables in Matthew 13. We begin with the parable about a man who finds treasure hidden in the field and the one about the pearl merchant. In both parables we focus on Jesus and the kingdom of heaven. Then the parable of the net funds its meaning, and the treasure of God’s people becomes clear. This sermon was recorded during an outdoor worship service, and there were some technical difficulties that required switching microphones early in the message. You can hear where the switch happens, but it does not affect this recording.
In this session, Pastor Tritten talks about the controversial topic of head coverings for women, and the use of hymns and music in worship.
This sermon is based on the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds in Matthew 13. Once again we see how the Kingdom of Heaven work with what seems like crazy hope and patience to bring the hope of Jesus' salvation to the world.
This sermon is on the Parable of the Sower and Jesus' explanation of the parable in Matthew 13. The parable describes the way God's Word goes out with abundant hope and ways people receive it. The parable also gives us opportunity to examine our lives for times that we receive God's Word similarly to the various landing places of the seed.
This session began with a discussion of the communion ware we use at Gloria Dei, which moved into discussion of communion practices. The session continued with a look at vestments and other liturgical clothing.
It this session, we look at what the architecture of our churches communicate and consider God's will for incorporating beauty into our worship spaces.
This sermon on Psalm 100 reminds us that God's creation and salvation are at the heart of our rejoicing and singing.
Pastor Tritten concludes our tour through the Divine Service by working our way through the Service of the Sacrament.
Pastor Tritten continues our tour through the Divine Service, working from the Gloria in Excelsis to the Service of the Sacrament.
This sermon for Trinity Sunday looks at the important ways God uses His names to reveal His triune nature and how we relate to each person of the Trinity while recognizing the unity of God's nature and work.
This study begins a tour of Divine Service 1 from the Lutheran Service Book. The puropse of this tour is to help us to understand the purpose, history, and Biblical foundation under the public worship of our congregation.
This sermon begins by remembering the account of Numbers 11:24-30, when God took His Spirit and put it on seventy elders of Israel to relieve Moses's burden. At the time, Moses wished that all of God's people were prophets and and that God would place His Spirit on all of them. That is what God has done. At Pentecost, God placed His Spirit on the Apostles, and now, through Baptism, He continues to put His Spirit on all His people so that we are authorized and empowered to share the hope we have in Jesus' s salvation.
How should a church organize its year? How should we think about the ways we order our themes and messages? Pastor Tritten talks about the history of lectionaries and how we use the calendar to remember important moments and teachings from Jesus' life and ministry.
with other believers. What drives the experience and expression of worship? What are it's priorities? What is it's object, place, way, and focus? This session begins the conversation that will continue over the summer of 2026.
In 1 Peter 4:12-19 and 5:6-11, the apostle urges us to not be surprised by trials and suffering when they come our way as we follow Jesus. It might be surprising to a modern reader of Peter's letter in the United States how much Peter talks about suffering, but he also talks about the hope that we have in the face of suffering and the confidence we have because Jesus is risen from the dead.
In this sermon, Pastor Tritten explores St. Peter's message in his first epistle, 1 Peter 3:13-22, where Peter asks who will harm us for doing good. Well, the devil and world often resist Christians when we try to do good. How then should we respond?
It's a hard word, but an important one, as we entrust ourselves into God's loving hands as we live our lives following Jesus' example trusting in His grace.
This sermon is based on 1 Peter 2:2-10. Pastor Tritten points out that we often look to exterior and interior sources to help us to understand our identity, but both fall short. Only Jesus can create our identity internally and externally. He changes who we are to become people of the kingdom of heaven.
This sermon for the 3rd Sunday of Easter, is part of a series on 1 Peter. Focused on 1 Peter 1:17-25, where Peter speaks of God having ransomed us, Pastor Tritten focuses on four prepositions to say we have been ransomed from, with, for, and by. Each preposition reveals another aspect of God's salvation in regard to having been ransomed.
This sermon, based on 1 Peter 1:3-9, reminds us that we are born again in Jesus’ resurrection. This new life changes your relationship with the world as you live in repentance and nourish your soul in God’s grace.
Pastor Tritten compared that statement to the lede (lead) in a newspaper article and urged the congregation to not bury the lede. However, the world, represented by four deities, resists the work of Jesus' resurrection-powered kingdom. Those deities are Santa Muerte (Death), Moloch (Politics), Eros (Desire/Love), and Mammon (Earthly Possessions). Jesus overcomes all of them and gives us life, mercy, love, and grace.
This is the Good Friday sermon. Pastor Tritten takes us back to Psalm 22 and encourages us to look to the cross, and particularly the man who died there, for our salvation.
When does he next drink from the fruit of the vine? What does that mean for the kingdom of heaven? What does it mean for us?
Ezekiel 37 records the strange but famous vision of the Valley of Dry Bones. We usually think of this as a vision that God gave to Ezekiel, but in v. 11 it becomes clear this was Israel's vision of how they saw themselves and God is responding to it to pour hope and life upon those who are hopeless and dead in sin.
This sermon, based on Colossians 2:8-15, heeds St. Paul's warning to beware of thoughts, ideas, and behaviors that would take us captive and lead us away from the forgiveness Christ won for us on the cross.
This sermon, based on Isaiah 42, summarizes God's story of salvation in the Old Testament. Pastor Tritten has been working with the idea that the Bible is the story of creatures in rebellion against our Creator, and our God who is determined to save His people. In this sermon, Pastor Tritten speaks about ways that we are spiritually blind because of our sin and God's faithfulness to guide us to Himself in Christ.
In this Wednesday evening sermon from March 11, 2026, Pastor Tritten draws on Ephesians 2:11-22 to show us how God gives us peace through Jesus' cross.
In this sermon, based on Exodus 17:1-7, where God provides water from the rock, and John 4, where Jesus speaks to the Samaritan woman at the well, Pastor Tritten points out that while we are fully known to God in our sin and rebellion, He continues to choose to make Himself known in Christ as the God who saves and redeems.
Pastor Tritten leads us to look at Galatians 6:11-16 where St. Paul takes up his pen to write with large letters about the gospel and the cross of Christ. He is clear of only boast is in the cross!
This sermon from March 1, 2026 is based on Genesis 12:1-9 and the calling of Abram, while it also draws from John 3's account of Jesus and Nicodemus. We, like Abram, and called to follow by faith, and by faith we receive Jesus' righteousness which He delivers to all who believe in Him as the one who was lifted up like the serpent in the wilderness.
In this sermon, based on 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Pastor Tritten talks about the cross as the strange place (from a worldly point of view) that God reveals His power to save His people.
because of the choices that were made, but also points out that God responds with a promise of a savior. The sermon then focuses on Matthew 4:1-9 and the account of Jesus' temptation in the wilderness where He faces the same temptations, but in different form. In the end, holiness is restored to humanity by Jesus and He presses on to die and rise to save all people from sin and death.
This sermon, based on Luke 9:21-27, focuses our attention on the cross of Christ. The cross was (and is) central to Jesus' purpose. It was the tool He used to redeem us from sin and death. Jesus' cross is why we deny ourselves, take up our crosses daily, and follow Him.
Jesus' transfiguration in Matthew 17 is a true mountain top experience. As important and impressive as such moments are, Jesus didn't stay on the mountain top, but led His disciples back to the valley. It is tempting for modern Christians to seek out our own mountain top experience, but Jesus is still at work in the mundane parts of life, and it is our privilege now to look for where he is working in the lives of others to draw them to faith and salvation, too.
This sermon is based on Matthew 5:13-20. In it, Pastor Tritten talks about what God's Kingdom is, how it comes, and what it has to do with the law and the prophets. He also shows us a greater righteousness than the scribes' and Pharisees' through Jesus' death and resurrection.
This sermon, based on Luke 2:40-52, discusses the importance of telling the story of Jesus' birth, life, death, and resurrection by focusing on Jesus' presence in His Father's ... house? .... business? .... things? Jesus wants to be where His Father is doing His Work, and He wants to be part of that work. He loves to bring salvation to sinners and bring us into His family. As adopted children of God, then, we love to be where our Father does His work and to be part of that work!
This sermon, based on Isaiah 52:7-10, calls on God's people to celebrate Jesus' birth as great news!
This sermon on Matthew 1:18-25 talks about the importance of pausing to soak in the good news of Jesus' birth and the names he received from His Father. Looking at the story of Jesus' birth through Joseph's experience gives a different perspective to the more well loved account from Luke 2.
Matthew 3:1-12 records John the Baptist's ministry baptizing at the Jordan River in the wilderness. He called his hearers to repentance and faith. He also confronted the sin of those who came to him. In particular he confronted graceless religion and beliefs that reject God's Word. These attitudes still tempt us today, so we do well to hear John's call to repentance as we look to the One who came after John for our cleansing and forgiveness.
There is much that we wait for in this life, including Jesus' return. Still, there is plenty of oportunity to act because God took action to save us by Jesus' birth.
As we begin the season of Advent, Matthew 24:36-44 reminds us that no one knows when the last day will come. How should God's people live in the meantime? We watch and wait in faith.
In this sermon, Pastor Tritten draws from Moses's sermon in Deuteronomy 8:1-10 to remember all the good that God has done for us and to bless, that is, give thanks, to Him.
This sermon for the 22nd Sunday after Pentecost is based on the Gospel lesson: Luke 20:27-40. When the Sadducees tested Jesus regarding the resurrection, they were trying to trap Him, but He was prepared to blow their trap apart by proclaiming that the resurrection was real - a matter He would prove by His own resurrection ... and ours!
This is the first session of Pastor Tritten's study on St. Paul's letter to the Colossians. For the handout from the session go to https://lotrittens.blogspot.com/ and look for November 9 - Colossians
This sermon is based on Luke 19:1-10, the story of Zacchaeus; particularly how Jesus' salvation came to him. Pastor Tritten's message points us to the salvation that has come to us in Christ and the hope we have with the saints who have gone before us. Jesus has won the victory and we are holy in God's sight because of him!
This sermon is based on Luke 18:9-14, the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. This parable is an excellent text for Reformation Day since it points to justification by grace through faith as the heart of our relationship with God.
Pastor Tritten continues the study of Greg Finke's Joining Jesus on His Mission. In this session he talks about five missional practices.
In Luke 18:1-8, Jesus told a parable to the effect that his followers ought always to pray and not lose heart, which is a struggle we all face. He tells of an unrighteous judge who ends up doing the right thing because of a widow's persistence, and he reminds us that we are not dealing with an unrighteous judge, but a loving Father who created and saves us. In that we love, we are bold to pray!
In this sermon, Pastor Tritten tells the story of Naomi, which you can read about in the Old Testament Book of Ruth. Naomi experienced great sorrow and bitterness in her life, and while that challenged her faith in God, God remained faithful to her, used her life, blessed her and her daughter-in-law so greatly that they became essential to the birth of our savior.
You can see those videos here: God Doesn't Need Anything - https://youtu.be/L0gH744pfUA?si=htd_rb39vN2A5_qw Beyond Blessed - https://youtu.be/bHWwK1l-JW4?si=YXuweIlshbZaE221What Would Your Church Do With $1,000,000? - https://youtu.be/fMdAyaoFEDI?si=w1vNr6CsO4i-zpvK
Pastor Tritten continues our study of Greg Finke's book Joining Jesus On His Mission. In this presentation we discuss the theology behind this statement: “The kingdom of God (that is, the redemptive presence and activity of God in human lives) has come into the world to work out the mission of God (the redeeming and restoring of human lives to the kingdom of God) through the people of God (the redemptive presence and activity of God made tangible to other human beings).” (Finke, p. 72)
This sermon is based on Jesus' challenging words in Luke 17:10 in which we are taught to hold to the attitude that we are unworthy servants and have only done our duty. We're not used to thinking of ourselves as servants. We see ourselves as people who are free. But what if that is not the full picture? What if we are naturally in bondage to sin and our first relationship with God is that He serves us to set us free?
Pastor Tritten continues the discussion of Greg Finke's book, Joining Jesus On His Mission, as we consider how we might be a part of helping people experience Jesus' love and forgiveness. What if our part of the process is rooted in enjoying people? What if a key characteristic of the evangelist is not confidence, but curiosity?
This sermon focuses on Luke 16:19-31 - the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus. What is the point of this parable that talks about heaven and hell, wealth, resurrection, and campassion? How does it apply to us today? Take a listen to find out.
This sermon, based on Luke 16:1-3, the Parable of the Unrighteous Manager, wrestles with the strange way Jesus compliments the unrighteous servant for his shrewdness. That comment is confusing to many! Perhaps, however, Jesus is challenging us to consider our stewardship of his blessings in our lives, urging us to think beyond this life to the everlasting life he won for us by his death and resurrection. If so, then these earthly blessings we call our own can be used to invest in the eternal benefit of the lives of the people God places around us.
In this introductiory session, Pastor Tritten talks about evangelism as an adventure that is led by the Holy Spirit. This is the first of seven session rooted in Greg Finke's book Joining Jesus on His Mission.
This sermon for Cross of Christ Sunday is based on 1 Corinthians 1:18-25. Pastor Tritten talks about the foolishness of the Gospel, but the power of God which He delivers through the proclamation of the Cross.
This last offering on the Nicene Creed looks at the aftermath of the Council of Nicaea in 325, the Council of Constantinople in 381, and the Great Schism in 1054. It examines the additions to the Creed regarding the Holy Spirit, and that troublesome filioque clause.
This sermon on Luke 14:25-35 takes Jesus' words about those who cannot be His disciples seriously and reminds us that none of us are worthy to follow Jesus. Indeed, we must count the cost - both what it cost Jesus and, following in Jesus' steps, what it will cost us to be His disciples.
This is the second lesson Pastor Tritten offered on the Nicene Creed. In it we compare the texts of the Nicene Creed from 325 A.D. and modern translations we use noting and explaining the differences. Pastor Tritten also supplies Bible verses to support all the parts of the creed.
Focusing on Luke 14:1-14, when Jesus was invited to dine at the house of one of the rulers of the Pharisees, Pastor Tritten draws out lessons on humility that we should emulate in our lives. More importantly, he shows that Jesus' humility was crucial to our salvation.
Sometimes Jesus says things that make us uncomfortable, especially when He confronts us with our own sin or hypocrissy. Luke 13:22-30 contains one of those uncomfortable conversations which challenges us and drives us back to the important fact that Jesus came to save sinners, and the Kingdom of God will be full of us!
This first session of our study focuses on the history leading up to the Council of Nicaea with special attention to what was happening to and in the Church.
In Luke 12:49-53, Jesus makes some challenging statements about whether or not He came to bring peace on earth. This sermon looks at Jesus' work to bring peace, who he makes peace with, and why having one kind of peace can lead to conflict in another part of the Christian's life.
Pastor Tritten finishes his report on his sabbatical with reflections on the Psalms and lessons learned for the future of Gloria Dei.
In Luke 12:22-34, Jesus says that His followers should not worry. Is that a word of rebuke or an invitation to peace? It seems there is so much that brings us anxiety in this life. What is the Cure for Worry?
This sermon draws from Luke's account of Jesus' resurrection and points to the hope that we, too, shall rise from the dead because Jesus did. Based on 1 Corninthians 15:51-57, we are reminded that the death we face in this world is overcome by Jesus' victory, and we can face this life with courage, peace, and hope.
This Good Friday sermon is based on the Christmas text of Luke 2:10-12, which says, "Fear not, for behold I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you. You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger." In these words, we already see Jesus' purpose not only for His birth, but also for His death.
This sermon is based on 1 Corinthians 11:23-32 and is called Received and Passed On. As we remember Jesus' institution of the Lord's Supper, we remember the incredible gift Jesus gave and seek to receive it in faith.
This sermon for Palm Sunday 2025 is based on Philippians 2:5-11. Pastor Tritten contrasts the desire many have for glory and honor with Jesus' humility, which is described in Philippians 2. What is more, Jesus' humility and salvation allow His followers to live in forgivenes and humility sharing the good news of salvation with others.
This sermon is based on Philippians 3:17-21. It talks about Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Hudson, Ohio's mission statement: Gathering People to Christ, Building belivers in Christ, Serving the World as Christ. As Christians we prioritize all three of those activities, even if those outside of the church might only prioritize service. Sometimes Christians behave as "enemies of the cross" when we ignore the full work of the gospel in the world. If we find that we've behaved this way, we are blessed to return to the gospel and remember that the kingdom has come to us and our sins are forgiven in Jesus' death and resurrection, too.
This sermon introduces the events that led to King David writing Psalm 51. This Psalm of Repentance teaches us to confess our sins, gives us words for confession, and reminds of God’s lovingkindness, compassion, and forgiveness.
This sermon is based on Luke 4:1-13, Jesus' temptation in the wilderness. We are tempted in many ways, and this account highlights the temptations to doubt our identity as Children of God and then to be derailed from God's mission for our lives. Jesus stands up under temptation as our Savior, giving us confidence that He has won the victory and gives it to us for the sake of His love.
This sermon is based on Psalm 51:3-6. This psalm was written after David's fall into sin, and it gives us great words to shape our own confession as we trust in God's forgiveness for Jesus' sake.
This sermon on Luke 9:28-36, Jesus' Transfiguration. While it gives an overview of the entire event at the mountain, it focuses in on the Father's words, "Listen to Him," meaning, listen to Jesus. There are many messages that clamor for our attention. It is essential we hear Jesus' voice above them all, because He is the one proclaiming forgiveness and salvation to us.
In the sermon on the plain, recorded in Luke 6, Jesus challenges his followers to love their enemies. Our understanding of love is complicated by some un-Biblical distortions of what love actually is. When we learn love from Jesus, we find that the cross, forgiveness, mercy, and the desire for God's good for others is key, and our love is given for Jesus' sake.
This sermon is based on Luke 6:17-26, part of Jesus' Sermon on the Plain which parallels the Beatitudes. Jesus identifies blessings and woes around four parts of earthly life: poverty, hunger, happiness, and reputation. He reveals our sin in these areas, but the good news is that He came to redeem us from sin and death.
This sermon, based on Luke 5:1-11, looks at Jesus' unexpected behavior, including how it is unexpected that He uses everyday situatations and normal people to catch people with the good news of His kingdom. His presence changes everything.
This sermon is based on the events recorded in Luke 4:31-44, particularly focusing on the idea that Jesus was sent to proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God. As recipients of the good news of the kingdom of God, we are also privileged to share the good news with others.
Pastor Tritten's sermon is based on Luke 4:16-30, which record's Jesus teaching in His hometown's synagogue. Jesus declared that the text he read from Isaiah 61 was fulfilled in the people's hearing. The sermon notes Christians often focus on what God will do someday, but we should notice what God is doing for us today. When we see God's work in our lives today, it makes us more bold to share the Gospel of Jesus with the world.
In this sermon Pastor Tritten talks about Jesus' miracle turning water into wine at a wedding reception as recorded in John 2:1-11. He points our Jesus' celebration and joy in marriage. Much of the sermon focuses on Jesus' provision for the many things people lack in their lives.
Pastor Tritten preaches on Luke's account of Jesus' baptism, focusing on God's Word and it's revelation about Jesus, His mission, and love. We are called to echo God's Word in our lives and congregations' ministries.
Pastor Tritten preaches on Luke 2:40-52; the account of Jesus in the temple as a boy. The title is Astounded and Astonished.
In this Christmas Eve sermon, Pastor Tritten talks about the songs we sing at Christmas. They are ways that we treasure and ponder Christmas, as Mary treasured and pondered the events of the night Jesus was born. The songs of the world focus us in one way, but the songs of the church focus us on Jesus and different ways His birth impact us as we celebrate His birth.
Pastor Tritten preached on John 1 and the way it parallels Genesis 1. Jesus is revealed to be God's Word and the Light of the World that gives life to all people. On Christmas we celebrate that the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not (cannot!) overcome it.
The sermon for Advent 4 on the Virgin Mary meeting Elizabeth in Luke 1. Pastor Tritten serves at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Hudson, OH. www.gloriadeihudson.org
A sermon on Psalm 66Themes: Evangelism, Retelling the Story of Salvation, Proclaiming God's Word, Advent, Christmas, Struggles, Trials
Courage and hope in Christ are key to understanding Promised Beauty, seen in the gestures and actions of Christians who have God's promises now but have not yet experienced the fullness of the gift. Pastor Tritten takes up the topic of beauty and considers it as a gift to help us experience God’s goodness as our Creator, Redeemer, and One who gives us hope.
How do you experience beauty in Christ's cross? What about all the suffering in the world? Is the love of God present for those who suffer? Pastor Tritten takes up the topic of beauty and considers it as a gift to help us experience God’s goodness as our Creator, Redeemer, and One who gives us hope.
How do you experience beauty in God's creation? What about all the decay? Pastor Tritten takes up the topic of beauty and considers it as a gift to help us experience God’s goodness as our Creator, Redeemer, and One who gives us hope.
Have you ever wondered why there is beauty in the world? Pastor Tritten takes up the topic of beauty and considers it as a gift to help us experience God’s goodness as our Creator, Redeemer, and One who gives us hope.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church’s mission statement is, “Gathering people to Christ. Building believers in Christ. Serving the world as Christ.” In this video, Pastor Tritten talks about what it means to serve the world as Christ.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church’s mission statement is, “Gathering people to Christ. Building believers in Christ. Serving the world as Christ.” In this video Pastor Tritten talks about What it means to build believers in Christ.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church’s mission statement is, “Gathering people to Christ. Building believers in Christ. Serving the world as Christ.” In this video Pastor Tritten talks about What it means to gather people to Christ.
Pastor Tritten talks about the Church - as in the Big "C" Church Universal that includes all Christians of all times and all places - and the reason we say it is the Body of Christ.
Pastor Tritten talks about the Church - as in the Big "C" Church Universal that includes all Christians of all times and all places - and the reason we say it is both ancient and contemporary.
Pastor Tritten talks about the Church - as in the Big "C" Church Universal that includes all Christians of all times and all places - and the reason we say it is "one" despite the fact that we can see so many divisions.
Pastor Tritten talks about the Church - as in the Big "C" Church Universal that includes all Christians of all times and all places - and the reason we say it is holy despite the fact that we can see it is full of sinners.
Things You Didn’t Learn In Sunday School About … Priscilla and Aquilla by Pastor Eric Tritten
Things You Didn’t Learn In Sunday School About … Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath by Pastor Eric Tritten
Things You Didn’t Learn In Sunday School About … Hagar and Ishmael by Pastor Eric Tritten
Things You Didn’t Learn in Sunday School About … Pentecost. Over the summer, Pastor Tritten will look at some events and people that we (may or may not have) learned about in Sunday School when we were children. Today begins with the giving of the Holy Spiritual on Pentecost. Read all about that day in Acts 2.
Pastor Tritten completes our walk through of Psalm 23, a funeral Psalm to live by, discussing v. 6 - Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Pastor Tritten of taking us, verse-by-verse, through Psalm 23 - a funeral Psalm to live by! Today we focus on v. 5 - Though preparest a table Be for me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runner over.
Pastor Tritten is taking us, verse-by-verse, through Psalm 23 - a funeral Psalm to live by! This week we focus on v. 4 - Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me.
Pastor Tritten is taking us, Verse-by-Verse, through Palm 23 - a funeral Psalm to live by! This week we focus on v. 3 - He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Pastor Tritten is taking us, verse by verse, through Psalm 23. Here is verse 2 - He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leaders me beside the still waters.
Pastor Eric Tritten is taking us, verse by verse, through Psalm 23. He begins with verse 1 - The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want.
Lent is coming! February 22 is Ash Wednesday. In this episode of A Weekly Word, Pastor Tritten encourages us to take sermon notes as a spiritual discipline that can help us grow in God’s Word.
We are the body of Christ, so why are there divisions? Pastor Tritten talks about confessing the unity of the church even as we experience its brokenness in this life.
Pastor Tritten begins a brief series on 1 Corinthians 12 and 13. Here he discusses the Holy Spirit’s giving, use, and purpose of spiritual gifts.
Pastor Tritten talks about the importance of songs, hymns, and lyrics to teach, preach, and confess Christ during Advent and Christmas.
What happens when we die? Pastor Tritten talks about some of ideas people have held about life after death and what the Bible says in the topic.
If we die and go immediately to be with Christ, why are we so concerned with the resurrection? Pastor Tritten considers this question and talks about the promise of a New Creation for Creatures who God makes new.
Happy Reformation Day (on October 31)! In this video, Pastor Tritten talks about Martin Luther, why some Christian’s are called “Lutheran,” and how to learn more about what Lutherans believe.
Happy Reformation Day (on October 31)! In this episode, Pastor Tritten talks about Martin Luther, why some Christian’s are called “Lutheran,” and how to learn more about what Lutherans believe.
In the first of three episodes, Pastor Tritten talks about the purpose of the Church, Gloria Dei’s mission statement, and Gathering People to Christ.
One of the obvious differences between Christian denominations is whether they baptized babies or not. In this episode Pastor Tritten explains why Lutheran Christians do baptize babies and why that’s a good thing.
Part 2 of 3.
Pastor Tritten looks at some misunderstandings regarding Holy Baptism, and points to the great comfort that is our in Baptism because it delivers Jesus's promises to us.
Holy Baptism - Who is doing what in this important ritual which Christians celebrate an cherish?
Part 1 of 3 in which Pastor Tritten talks about Baptism.
Pastor Tritten talks about the history of Sunday School and introduces this year’s offerings for kids and adults.
Have you ever wondered about the special clothes pastors and priests wear? Pastor Tritten talks about some of the common items pastors wear, called vestments, and gives a couple reasons these clothes are god and helpful.
This is the last episode in Pastor Tritten’s series on The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. In this session he talks about spiritual warfare, living for Christ’s sake, and where we find confidence in this life.
Take a look at the way C.S. Lewis uses Aslan’s death to help us to think about Jesus’s sacrifice for our sins.
As the Witch drives Edmund on, spring begins to appear. This is an in-between time similar to our lives in this world waiting for Jesus to return.
In this episode, Pastor Tritten looks at Edmund's un-doing as he follows the will of the Witch. he is enslaved and must be saved. How will Aslan free him?
In this episode, Into Narnia, Pastor Tritten shares how the story of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe can be used to talk about the Holy Spirit's calling, the importance of truthfulness, courage and faithfulness.
In this episode, Turkish Delight, Pastor Tritten talks about Edmund, temptation, manipulation, and God's plan to bring enmity and save us.
Pastor Tritten continues our look at The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and discusses how we might use this book to talk about faith, forgiveness, and living in a world that is in rebellion.
Pastor Tritten introduces a series for the summer on C.S. Lewis's best selling book The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Join us as we dig into this book and examine how it teaches us about the Christian faith.
Pastor Tritten talks about Pentecost's history and importance as we celebrate the work of the Holy Spirit.
Pastor Eric Tritten shares some thoughts on enjoying some faith-filled activities across the summer.
Contexts change, but God’s Word does not. On May 11 the Church commemorates two brothers, Cyril and Methodius, who helped to bring God’s Word to the Slavic people of Moravia.
During Lent we often fast in repentance. Pastor Tritten gives some suggestions for feasting to celebrate Jesus' resurrection during he Easter Season.
Rev. Dr. Eric Tritten spends some time talking about being a creature, as well as our relationship to other creatures and the Creator.
What is charity? Pastor Eric Tritten, from Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Hudson, OH, talks about charity in light of 1 Corinthians 13 and urges us to think broadly about how we might display Devotion to the teaching to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Pastor Tritten shares thoughts about prayer and fasting. Sometimes Christians avoid these devotional habits, but they have long been part of the life of God’s people. It might be helpful to reconsider fasting as a tool to clear away distractions and to help us focus on prayer even as we rest in God’s Grace for Christ’s sake for our salvation.
Text: Isaac Watts, 1674–1748; Tune: Lowell Mason, 1792–1872; Text and tune: Public domain
Text: Henry H. Milman, 1791–1868, alt.; Tune: Mucialisch Hand-Buch der Geistlichen Melodien, 1690, Hamburg, alt.; Text and tune: Public domain
Text: James Montgomery, 1771–1854, alt.; Tune: Ludvig M. Lindeman, 1812–87; Text and tune: Public domain
Text: Italian, c. 18th cent,; tr. Edward Caswall, 1814–78, alt.; Tune: Friedrich Filitz, 1804–76; Text and tune: Public domain
In this A Weekly Word, Pastor Tritten continues our series on devotion by focusing on Devotion to the Word. He works with Dr. David Schmitt’s definition of devotion to guide our image of what Devotion might look like. That definition is, “Devotion is the deep reverence for a particular article of the Christian faith, often expressed in a variety of contemplative and active practices that manifest the working of the Spirit in that time and place.”
Performed by the choir of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Hudson, OH Text: Ernst Christoph Homburg, 1605–81; (sts. 1–2, 5, 7): tr. Catherine Winkworth, 1827–78, alt.; (sts. 3–4, 6): tr. Evangelical Lutheran Hymn-Book, 1912, St. Louis; Tune: Das grosse Cantional, 1687, Darmstadt; Text and tune: Public domain
Text: Girolamo Savonarola, 1452–98; tr. Jane. F. Wilde, 1826–96, alt.; Tune: Erbaulicher Musicalischer Christen-Schatz, 1745, Basel Text and tune: Public domain
People often talk about, “doing devotions,” But what does that mean? Pastor Tritten takes some time to define devotion, and begins a new series of videos focused on different forms of Christian devotion.
Week 1's Hymn of the Week Text: based on Claudia F. Hernaman, 1838–98; para. Gilbert E. Doan, 1930; © 1978 Lutheran Book of Worship. Used by permission: LSB Hymn License no. 110004444 Tune: The Psalmes of David in Prose and Meeter, 1635, Edinburgh; Public domain
What is Lent all about? Where did it come from? Why do we observe it every year? Pastor Tritten talks about Lent and suggests some habits to help us focus on Jesus.
Pastor Tritten wraps up the series on the Missio Dei and looks at the Lord's Prayer to teach us to pray for growth in God's kingdom.
Pastor Tritten talks about fellowship and gathering for worship as an important part of our witness to the world.
Pastor Tritten talks about mercy as an important part of the life of God's people and a great part of our faithful witness about Jesus to our neighbors.
Pastor Tritten talks about evangelism and apologetics - presenting and defending our faith in Jesus - and explains why we don't have to be afraid to do either one.
Pastor Tritten reflects on “witness” as part of the Christian life, and shares some thoughts about testifying about Jesus.
This week’s A Weekly Word focuses on the Missio Dei, that is the Mission of God. Pastor Tritten talks about God’s mission and how He includes His people in this important work. At the conclusion Pastor encourages us to pray about God’s mission using the Lord’s Prayer.
Pastor Tritten talks about Ephiphany, the wise men, their gifts, and Jesus, who is the light of the world.
Pastor Tritten talks about New Year's resolutions, reflecting on God's blessings, and a life of repentance that flows from God's grace. Happy New Year!
Pastor Tritten talks about Christmas traditions and encourages us to seek out traditions that point us to Jesus.
Pastor Tritten discusses some of the concerns folks have when they say people are removing Christ from Christmas, and suggests some ways that we can keep Christ central in our Christmas celebrations.
Pastor Tritten talks about the Advent Wreath and the allegation that it, with other Christian symbols and holidays are rooted in Paganism. In the end we remember that Jesus Christ wins the victory over sin, death, and the order of this world, and that all things are His.
Pastor Tritten talks about Advent hymns and how they help us anticipate Christmas. He also reminds us that we’re not waiting for Christmas to come. We’re really waiting for Jesus to come again!
Pastor Tritten talks about Advent, the lectionary, the church year, and some devotional habits that might help us prepare for Jesus to come to us.
Pastor Tritten talks about the end of the Church Year, and, more importantly, living with hope because Jesus died, rose, and is coming again.
Pastor Tritten talks about the end of the Church year and why we have two Sundays that focus our attention on The End.
A Sermon for All Saints’ Day Special thanks to Dr. Kurt Von Kampen and the choir of Concordia University, Nebraska.
Ash Wednesday Sermon Based on Lutheran Hour Ministry Devotions written by Dr. Kari Voh. www.lhm.org
This work has been identified as being free of known restrictions under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights.