Sermons from Our Savior Lutheran Church, Birmingham, AL: Recent Episodes
Our Savior Lutheran Church - Birmingham, AL
7.6 billion people inhabit this earth. 362 million of those reside in the United States and Canada. We have before us the largest mission field the world has ever seen. There are so many in this world who do not know that Christ’s love is God’s gift to us all. This is our mission field—for God calls us to share this Good News of Christ’s love with people close to us and those far away. For this reason, WELS Missions is eager to carry out our calling to preach the Good News to every neighbor, and in every nation. Into a world that desperately needs it, our home and world missionaries and national church partners bring the light of God’s Word. With this powerful tool deployed and in the hands of the Lord of the Church, our work is bearing much fruit. The Lord has been using WELS Missions to share the gospel in expected and unexpected places. God still opens doors.
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The Holy Scriptures often speak of created beings other than humans who worship God in heaven and act as his messengers and agents on earth. These beings are referred to as angels. We are not told much about them, and it is not clear how much of what we are told is figurative. Jesus speaks of angels as ‘rejoicing over penitent sinners’ (Luke 15:10). Elsewhere in a statement that has been variously understood, Jesus warns against ‘misleading a child, because their angels behold the face of God.’ (Matthew 18:10).
On the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels, popularly called Michaelmas, we give thanks for the many ways in which God’s loving care watches over us through his heavenly angels, both directly and indirectly, and we are reminded that God has much in his creation beyond our senses that he reveals for our blessing and providence.
St. Michael (whose name means, “Who is like God?”) is said to be the captain of the heavenly armies. He is mentioned in Holy Scripture in Daniel 10 where he is said to be ‘the prince of the people of Israel’; in Jude 9 where he is said to have ‘disputed with the devil about the body of Moses’; and in Revelation 12:7 where he is said to have ‘led the heavenly armies against those of the great dragon (the devil).’ St. Michael is generally pictured in full armor, carrying a lance, and with his foot on the neck of the dragon.
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I“Pay it forward.” That phrase means that when someone does something for you, instead of paying that person back directly, you pass along kindness to another person instead. Doing something kind for someone else is a way of thanking the person who originally did something kind for you.
Today God applies that concept to forgiveness. God forgave our countless sins. He was willing to pay an incomprehensible price—the death of his Son. Obviously, we will never have the occasion to do the same for God. We will never have to forgive God because everything he does for us shows perfect love and care. God never wrongs us. But others may do us wrong. Others may cause us pain. And when we are quick to forgive, it is one way we thank God for being so quick to forgive us. This is what God wants in his Church—people who, like him, are quick to forgive.
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Imagine, late one night, you notice the house across the street is on fire. You see no activity inside. You say to yourself, “Pounding on the door in the middle of the night might scare the family. I’m sure they’ll realize what’s going on eventually.” Ridiculous! You would never do that! To let a family sleep while flames surround them would be cruel. Your inaction would make you a killer. The truth is you would pound on their door at 3:00 AM, screaming. You would throw a brick through their front window if that was what it took to warn them. You would not care if it startled the family. This is a matter of life and death! Love compels you to do whatever it takes.
God wants the people of his church to be willing to say hard things to people when that is what is necessary to save them from an even worse type of fire. Warning against sin is not easy. It upsets people, even offends them. But saying hard things is the loving thing to do when it is a matter of eternal life and death.
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Some churches teach that if one follows God, God responds by granting prosperity and peace. Today Jesus teaches that is nonsense. The Son of God tells us that if we are his disciples, if we are part of his Church, we will have to bear crosses. Believers will suffer in this world, oftentimes for no other reason than they are believers. It is painful to struggle against the temptations and priorities of this world. It can be agonizing to face the same scorn and ridicule Jesus faced.
Why bother? We carry our crosses in gratitude for Jesus carrying his cross, one too heavy for us to bear because it was weighted down with our sin. We carry our crosses because we know that in those moments of struggle, we are forced to turn to Christ and rely on his strength. The church takes up its crosses, because this is the Christian path, the one Jesus himself walked: first the cross, then the crown.
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Jesus asked, “Who do you say that I am?” Make no mistake. That is the most important question in the world. And it is a question every human must answer. A complimentary answer can still be dead wrong. Some in Jesus’ day thought he was John the Baptist or the prophet Elijah come back from the dead. Complimentary, but dead wrong. Today plenty of people believe Jesus existed. They believe he was a wise teacher or a role model for love. Complimentary, but dead wrong if missing the main point.
Jesus is both Lord and Savior, the Messiah, the Son of the living God. This truth is the core of saving faith. It is the central message God has called our church to proclaim. What does God want in a church? He wants a church that really knows Jesus.
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“All are welcome!” Is that true at our church? Historically, it rarely is true. In the gospels, the average Jewish person would have thought it odd, even offensive, if someone who wasn’t an Israelite walked into their place of worship. Taking it a step further, some of the Jewish religious leaders would imply that church was meant for those who zealously followed religious customs and traditions. Those were “good church folk.” So church was meant for people of the right heritage and who behaved the right way. What about us? Is it conceivable that a stranger could walk into our church and for some reason you would ask yourself, “What is someone like that doing here?” Or, just perhaps, you are asking that question about yourself? “There are some seemingly godly people here. I’m not like them. Do I really belong?”
Today, Jesus shows us that God wants the church to be for all people. All of us—regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, or social status—have the same problem of sin. And we all have the same Savior. Therefore, anyone who comes to Christ’s Church and cries out, “Lord, have mercy!” is more than welcome.
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Wherever faith clings to the promises of God, doubt is always lingering in the back of our minds, constantly asking the serpent’s garden question, “Did God really say?” How striking to think that one must have faith in God before it is even possible to doubt him!
It is not uncommon that, in times of adversity, doubt rears its ugly head—doubts about God’s care, God’s promises, God’s providence. In those times, the true answer to doubt is not found in some great miracle that removes adversity, but in the still small voice of our Savior God whispering to us in his Word. Through that Word, Christ reaches out to us with nail-scarred hands, proof of his great love. Jesus gently says, “Why did you doubt?” Our faith is restored. The Christian answers doubt with faith because Jesus makes it so.
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The hardest times to trust in God are the times we need him most. It’s easy to trust God when your job is great, your health is fine, your relationships are strong, your family is well. It’s easy to trust God when the sun is shining, but what happens when your life is suddenly overshadowed by dark days?
When tragedy or conflict affect us, we may wonder if God continues to care and provide for us. At those times the Christian focuses on certain foundational facts. The Christian was chosen, predestined, and adopted as God’s dear child. God has provided the Christian with innumerable spiritual blessings and promises the Christian an eternity of glory, peace, and joy. If we look at those spiritual blessings God provides to us, how could we doubt that he will, at the right time, give us everything we truly need? The Christian trusts God to provide.
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What do you consider your life’s priorities? If you made a list, what would be near the top? Faith, family, and friends would probably head the lists of many. Financial security and health would be right up there. Reputation and recreation would likely make the cut. But perhaps a more interesting question than “What do you consider your life’s priorities?” is “Which of the items on that list would you be willing to sacrifice to save your top priority?” What if you had to give up the whole list—family, friends, finances, health, reputation, recreation—to save just one priority: faith?
This week we are given an honest assessment of what really matters in life. The kingdom is worth everything. Worldly wealth can buy the things of this world, the type of things that rust and decay, things that will not last. True wealth is spiritual wealth. It can be found only in God and his eternal blessings for us in Christ. The Christian seeks first spiritual wealth and will sacrifice anything to obtain it.
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The wheat that grows in the Middle East is a variety that looks much like wild grass or weeds. It is difficult to tell wheat and weeds apart until shortly before harvest time, when the wheat stalks develop a head containing the kernels of grain. Try and pull the weeds out of a wheat field and you will likely pull up a fair amount of wheat accidentally. So you need to wait for the harvest to separate wheat from weeds.
This week Jesus uses that image to illustrate life this side of heaven. Christians are pictured as wheat planted by the Lord. Evil and unbelieving evildoers are pictured as weeds. We might want God to take care of evil now—to pull up all the weeds. But he tells us to wait for the harvest. God is going to fix the problem of evil in this world, but it might not be today or even tomorrow. What does God want us to do while we wait? He wants us to live like wheat among weeds, serving the purpose for which he planted us. That means being faithful, fruitful, and mindful of the coming harvest.
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Planting seed by hand can seem magical. In your hand the seed looks insignificant and lifeless. Yet you put the seed into the soil, and the natural process of life begins. All by itself, the seed germinates and sprouts and reaches to the sun. Except when it doesn’t! Plant multiple seeds and often only some, perhaps just a small amount, will sprout. As these few sprouts grow, birds and pests and weeds and weather attack. The reality is that once the seed leaves your hand, you are at the mercy of forces beyond your control.
Today, God uses that experience from nature to explain the supernatural process by which God calls humans to faith through the gospel. The Christian is planted by the Word. The Christian can plant the seed of the gospel into the soil of another’s heart. What happens after that is completely beyond our control. Yet God promises us that his Word always accomplishes his good purposes. God’s Word is powerful, all on its own, without our help.
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Without rest, we suffer. Studies show that after 36 hours without sleep, most people will experience extreme fatigue and hormonal imbalances, resulting in decreased attention, poor decisions, and even speech impairment. Other studies show if someone takes no breaks during their workday, their productivity is lower than those who do take periodic breaks. We need rest.
Christians know they need more than sleep or breaks. We need more than physical rest. We need spiritual rest. The Christian knows that the only place to find that type of rest is Jesus. Jesus provides more than a pause in work, more than enjoyable recreation. Jesus provides the removal of our sins, the cleansing of our guilty conscience, and a gentle new yoke of discipleship. In Jesus, the Christian finds rest from his burdens, rest from his battles, and rest forever in heaven.
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Not all love is good. It is self-destructive to love bad things. However, it is just as harmful to love good things in a bad order. For example, it would seem to be a good thing that a man loves his dog. But if he loves his dog more than he loves his wife, his “love” for both is disordered. That is not in the best interests of the man, his wife, or even his dog. For love to be healthy, it needs to be properly ordered.
The Christian loves God above all things. For the Christian understands that everything in this present world is transitory. Relationships fail. Empires fall. Accomplishments are quickly forgotten. But nothing about God is transitory. God’s love is eternal. He promises the Christian everlasting life. And so the Christian struggles not simply to avoid loving bad things. The Christian struggles to love God above all other good things too. Because the Christian understands that God is of ultimate value.
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From its birth the New Testament Church has been persecuted. The religious leaders in Jerusalem tried to stamp it out, but they only succeeded in spreading Christianity throughout Judea and Samaria. The Roman Empire persecuted Christians with stakes and lions, yet God’s Church exploded with growth in those early centuries. In Martin Luther’s day, both pope and emperor sought to stop the gospel movement that was spreading from Germany. But God was a mighty fortress for the Church.
Still today the Church is persecuted. Every day thirteen Christians worldwide are killed because of their faith. Another twelve are arrested or imprisoned simply because they profess faith in Christ Jesus. In the U.S. we have freedom of religion enshrined as a constitutional right, but that is no guarantee for a life free of persecution. Until Judgment Day, some will attempt to shout down the truth of Christ. We will be persecuted. That won’t stop us. The holy ministry preaches Christ despite persecution. Christ never promised his Church that ministry would operate unopposed. But he did promise to give courage to his witnesses.
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“When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them” (Matthew 9:36). The Greek word translated “compassion” refers to a type of love that almost overwhelms one’s emotions. Imagine a father looking at his little girl lying in a hospital bed near death. The father’s heart aches. That father would allow the surgeon to cut any organ out of him, without anesthesia, and transplant it into his daughter, if that’s what it took to save his little girl’s life. That’s the idea behind the Greek word for “compassion.” Jesus looks at the people and is willing to do anything for them—to make any sacrifice, even the ultimate one at the cross.
In that same compassion, the Lord of the Church raises up ministers. As those ministers share his grace and mercy, Christ saves eternal lives. More, he fills those ministers with his Spirit, so that they also feel compassion for God’s people.
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“When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion on them” (Matthew 9:36). The Greek word translated “compassion” refers to a type of love that almost overwhelms one’s emotions. Imagine a father looking at his little girl lying in a hospital bed near death. The father’s heart aches. That father would allow the surgeon to cut any organ out of him, without anesthesia, and transplant it into his daughter, if that’s what it took to save his little girl’s life. That’s the idea behind the Greek word for “compassion.” Jesus looks at the people and is willing to do anything for them—to make any sacrifice, even the ultimate one at the cross.
In that same compassion, the Lord of the Church raises up ministers. As those ministers share his grace and mercy, Christ saves eternal lives. More, he fills those ministers with his Spirit, so that they also feel compassion for God’s people.
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In the first half of the Church Year (Advent through Pentecost) we look at the life of Christ—his birth, ministry, death, resurrection, ascension, and the sending of the Holy Spirit. In the second half of the year, we look at the teachings of Christ. We begin by looking at one of the most mind-blowing truths: that God is triune.
Already in the very first chapter of the Bible we read, “Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image…” (Genesis 1:26). Note the singular “God” and the plural “us.” Scripture teaches us that there is only one God but that he exists as three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He is triune (three-in-one). This teaching is not some logical exercise or philosophical excursion. The doctrine of the Trinity is central to our salvation. The triune God is our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier. Lose this doctrine, and as the Athanasian Creed says, you lose it all. A Jesus who is less than God is also less than a Savior. So often, when life gets hard, we get frustrated. We don’t understand how God is working always for our good. But the doctrine of the Trinity teaches us we cannot even comprehend God’s existence. How then, could we ever comprehend all his workings? On this Holy Trinity Sunday, let it be enough to know that all three persons—Father, Son, and Spirit—love us with an everlasting love.
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Fifty days after the Passover, God’s Old Testament people celebrated Pentecost (Greek for “fifty”). Pentecost commemorated the gathering of the harvest and was also used to remember the giving of the Law on Mt. Sinai, the start of the Church of Israel. Christ chose Pentecost to be the birthday of his New Testament Church too. By pouring out his Holy Spirit, Christ empowered the Church to gather in the great harvest of souls won by the Son.
Pentecost is the third great festival of the Church, along with the Nativity and the Resurrection. The early church fathers mention the Festival of Pentecost often enough to lead many to believe it was celebrated annually already at the time of the apostles. Pentecost closes the fifty-day period after Easter and ends the festival half of the church year. The Church dresses in red this day to remind us of the tongues of fire that marked the Spirit’s gift, as well as the blood of the martyrs which was the seed of the Church.
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The Church waits. The Church in Jerusalem waited for ten days between Christ’s ascension and the coming of the Spirit at Pentecost. The Church today waits through the millennia between Pentecost and Christ’s second coming. We are waiting for the gifts that Jesus promised. We live in eager expectation of glory!
That glory is not dimmed by early suffering. Rather, our current sufferings only remind us of the glory that awaits us. We are simply following in Christ’s footsteps. First comes the cross, and then comes the crown. Knowing what is coming lets us view our current troubles are light and momentary. They cannot mute the joy of living in eager expectation of glory.
While we wait in the time between Christ’s ascension and return, we live knowing that we will suffer persecution for our faith in Christ, but God will work it for glory.
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“The LORD God commanded the man, ‘You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die’” (Genesis 2:16,17). In giving that command, God showed love to man by making it clear that it is lethal to live contrary to God’s will. In giving that command, God provided man with the ability to demonstrate love for God—through obedience. True love involves obedience. Jesus did not simply say he loved his heavenly Father. He proved it by obeying his Father, even when that obedience meant dying on a cross for our sake.
Love for God who lives in us leads us to a life of obedience. The God who lives in us calls us to live for him. It is as simple as that. Love for our risen Lord means obedience to his commands.
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The gospel is the most inclusive message in the world. The benefits of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are meant for every man, woman, and child who ever lived. The gospel is also the most exclusive message in the world, for it maintains that salvation can only be found in one place—the person of Jesus Christ. Just listen to how Jesus speaks: “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). Jesus doesn’t say, “I will show you the true way to eternal life.” The prophets and apostles could say that. But Jesus says, “I am the way. I am the truth. I am the life you crave.” And note that definite article: “the,” not “a”! Jesus is not a way into heaven. He is the way. There is no other way than through faith in the One who died and rose again.
The unbelieving world finds this claim—that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven—to be the most offensive teaching in all of Scripture. Yet this is the very truth upon which Christ builds his Church.
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Every culture has the concept of an ideal citizen, someone who typifies its values. For much of the United States’ history, the ideal citizen was the American farmer: hardworking, innovative, vital to our collective well-being. Even some of our first presidents were farmers.
For the people of Israel, the farmer wasn’t their ideal citizen. It was the shepherd. Sheep were an invaluable source of clothing and food. But they were hard to keep in the Judean countryside. Its sparse grasslands are intermixed with desert. For sheep, food is sparse, but predators are plenteous. The survival of sheep was dependent on their shepherd. There he is. Weather-beaten. Sleepless. Armed. In the dusk, he scans the land, counting his sheep, making sure they are all accounted for, every one of them on his heart. You see why Jesus chose the shepherd to illustrate how he cares for us. He feeds us with his Word. He protects us from that roaring lion, Satan. Jesus is leading us into the green pasture of eternal life. For centuries, the Church has observed this Fourth Sunday of Easter to celebrate that he lives to be our Good Shepherd.
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Imagine someone you love is near death. Their only hope of survival is a risky brain surgery, one so complicated only one surgeon in the state will attempt it. The surgery is scheduled. But as that doctor drives to the hospital, he is killed in a car accident. Any hope you had for your loved one’s salvation died along with that surgeon.
That is how Jesus’ disciples felt after his death. “We hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel,” they said (Luke 24:19). Their hope for a better life died along with Jesus. They had let their personal wants and expectations cloud their view of Scripture which said that the Messiah’s death and resurrection were actually the source of all hope! So, the living Lord appeared to his disciples. He explained. He opened their minds to the truth of God’s Word. And in doing so, he restored their hope.
There is little worse than a feeling of hopelessness. Christ’s disciples have victory over that feeling. He died, but he is dead no longer. The one who can heal us and give us life to the full lives! He lives to restore our hope.
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Thomas had been taught and trained by Christ himself. He heard Jesus predict his death and resurrection. Yet, even after hearing the eyewitness testimony of friends, who all saw the resurrected Jesus, Thomas had doubts: "Rising from the dead. That can’t be possible!"
Today is a day of great comfort for any follower of Jesus who wrestles with doubt concerning Christ’s promises or doubts about God’s Word. Jesus does not come to rebuke Thomas’ weak faith. Jesus comes to strengthen Thomas’ faith, giving him proof of the mind-bending reality of the resurrection—to let him feel it, touch it, explore it. Jesus didn’t reject Thomas. Jesus engaged Thomas and gave him peace.
Still today, Jesus comes to his disciples in Word and sacrament. The living Lord speaks to us. He lets us partake of his true body and blood. When we show weakness of faith, he does not reject us. Just as he did with Thomas, Jesus engages us, giving us proof and peace.
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A dead Jesus would do no one any good. But a resurrected Jesus? That would change everything; that would make Easter the most important event that has ever happened. Today God wants us to know with certainty that Jesus lives. Because if Jesus lives, then so will his believers. God had told his Church what was going to happen. Jesus told his disciples what would transpire in Jerusalem. The disciples were slow to believe the Easter truth. But God ensured that his people had witnesses to proclaim that Jesus lives again. He suffered and died according to Scripture (Second Reading), he fulfilled the sign of Jonah (First Reading), and it was attested to by angels (Gospel).
Christ is risen indeed! Mankind is redeemed! Jesus has removed the fear of eternal death. Jesus has transformed physical death. It is not punitive. For the believer, it is the pathway into Paradise. Jesus has made us spiritually alive by giving us faith in his resurrection. Jesus lives! So, in every possible way, Jesus takes us from death to life.
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The Old Testament sacrificial system demonstrated both God’s holiness and his mercy. God is holy. So when there was sin, there had to be punishment. Blood had to be shed. But God is merciful. So it wasn’t the sinner’s blood, but the blood of a substitutionary sacrifice. Throughout the Old Testament almost every time God describes the type of sacrifices he would accept, he includes the phrase “without defect or blemish.” Sacrificial animals could not be sickly or deformed but were to be ideal specimens in the prime of their life. This was to illustrate an important truth of our salvation. Only someone who is perfectly sinless can save a sinner. A mother cannot pay for her daughter’s sin, for that mother is not “without defect or blemish.” That mother has sin of her own. Salvation requires a perfect savior.
Though Jesus faced endless temptation, “He did not sin.” Jesus was the first and only human being who lived a perfect life. Therefore, he is the only person who didn’t deserve to die. Yet, today Jesus dies on a cross. “He was pierced for our transgressions,” Scripture says. Note the singular “he” and the plural “our.” If Jesus were just a perfect man, his sacrifice would only have been enough to pay for the sins of one sinful man. But Jesus is more than a perfect man. He is the perfect Son of God. That is divine blood pooling at the foot of the cross. That makes his death valuable enough to pay for the sins of the entire world. Jesus looked at a world full of sinners. He saw that we needed mercy. He fulfilled our greatest need by becoming the perfect sacrifice.
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We often think of the word communion as a synonym for the Lord’s Supper. “I took communion” means “I received the Lord’s Supper.” Yet, the Latin word communionis means “community” or “association” or “sharing.” (In the creed, we speak of “the communion of saints.”) When people come together and share their lives with one another, the result is blessing—a blessed communion. And when God comes to us and shares himself with us, the result is eternal life.
But is that really possible? How can a holy God associate with people who sin every day? In a miraculous meal, God lets us share in his own flesh and blood, the very blood that was shed to atone for our sin. We celebrate this feast for the forgiveness of sins and restored unity with our Father—a blessed communion with God. But there’s more! As we share this meal together, the Lord who loved us unites us in love for one another—a blessed communion with our brothers and sisters in Christ.
Community is often celebrated with food. When people love one another, they enjoy gathering around the dinner table. On this Holy Thursday, Jesus invites us to his table. He serves us Supper. He serves us himself. And in doing so, Jesus creates a blessed communion.
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Pick any head of state: the president, a prime minister, a king. Hopefully, they care about the people over whom they have authority. But even if they care, they live and operate above the people. The British royals live in a palace, not a three-bedroom ranch. The President does not fly coach. He sits in a recliner on Air Force One. There’s nothing wrong with this. Those offices are worthy of high respect. The point is these rulers live and operate above us. If a thief is breaking into your home, call 911 and see if your governor shows up. Your governor doesn’t even know your name! But, cut him some slack. He is only human.
Jesus is not. Jesus is the King of kings, God and man in one person. He knows you intimately. More! He is willing to do absolutely anything necessary to serve and protect you. We see that this Holy Week. It begins with Jesus riding a donkey colt into Jerusalem—as the prophet foretold. As this week nears its end, Jesus is given a crown of thorns. He carries a cross out of Jerusalem and is nailed to it. Placed on his cross was this sign: “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” The sign was partially right. Jesus is a king, just not of the Jews. He’s our King, infinitely mightier than any ruler in history, while also being infinitely humbler. King Jesus has come to save us. Those other heads of state can serve as blessings. But this is the greater type of king that we need most.
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Join us this Lent as we enter the world of the ancient Hebrew Psalm writers as they were inspired by the Holy Spirit to write songs to the Lord. What were they going through, experiencing, expecting? As we ponder these Psalms during Lent, know that Jesus was pondering them too on his path to cross. Christ would be the fulfillment of all of these Messianic Psalms that were prophesying his suffering and death for our sins. As we cry out to the Lord, we find the answer to our greatest need in the Psalms, in Christ, crucified and risen.
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We know that unbelief will have consequences in the future—eternal separation from God. But unbelief also has consequences now. It makes you blind, in a sense. The unbeliever is unable to see the world as it really is. That which is harmful the unbeliever considers good; that which is good he considers meaningless. The unbeliever cannot see the danger that lurks behind temptation. He cannot see the blessing contained in God’s Word. The unbeliever cannot see the tragic fate that lies in his future, and he certainly cannot see the Savior.
The Old Testament said that restoration of sight to the blind was one of the works of the Messiah. In his ministry, Jesus healed those who were physically blind. But even if our eyes work just fine, we still need Jesus to give us spiritual vision. Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” Christ comes to shine his light into our darkened eyes that we might see him and live. Jesus meets our greatest needs. He provides sight for the spiritually blind.
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A person can survive between one and two months without food. But a person can survive only two to three days without water. Water is one of our greatest needs. Research shows that even slight dehydration will adversely affect your mood, memory, and motor coordination. Become seriously dehydrated, and life ends quickly. This helps us understand what Scripture means when it says things like, “My soul thirsts for God” (Psalm 42:2). If one is separated from God, he is adversely affected. If he remains separated from God, he will die an agonizing eternal death.
Not all admit it; yet it remains true for all. Everyone has a deep spiritual thirst. In our heart of hearts, we all long for everlasting life. Unbelievers try to satisfy that deep thirst with worldly things, a strategy doomed for failure. Believers look to the One who has promised, “Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst.” Jesus meets our greatest needs. He alone possesses the water that satisfies those who are spiritually parched. He alone grants eternal life.
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When assessing the seriousness of need, one factor is how widespread that need is. A homeless individual needs food. During a famine, an entire nation needs food. It is substantially easier to meet the needs of the former than the latter! The more widespread a need, the greater the need.
When Jesus said, “No one can enter the kingdom of God,” he declared that the need for salvation is universal. He rightly condemned humanity as a whole. There is no one on the face of the earth who can make the case that they deserve God’s blessing. Yet, ages ago, God declared that all nations would be blessed. God has declared his love for the world and promised he would save the world. God’s gift of salvation is meant for all people.
Some interpret this to mean that all people will be saved in the end. This is not true. The gift of salvation is meant for the world; however, it is received by faith. “Whoever believes in him…” the Gospel says. However, the good news is that faith is also God’s gift, imparted through that gospel.
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Join us this Lent as we enter the world of the ancient Hebrew Psalm writers as they were inspired by the Holy Spirit to write songs to the Lord. What were they going through, experiencing, expecting? As we ponder these Psalms during Lent, know that Jesus was pondering them too on his path to cross. Christ would be the fulfillment of all of these Messianic Psalms that were prophesying his suffering and death for our sins. As we cry out to the Lord, we find the answer to our greatest need in the Psalms, in Christ, crucified and risen.
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Our modern English word “champion” comes from an old English word that meant “warrior.” In ancient times, when two armies gathered to fight, sometimes as a prelude to the battle—and sometimes in place of the battle—each army would pick a mighty solider, and these two men would fight each other. These elite warriors, these champions, would represent their people in battle. They would meet in the middle of the field. With everyone watching, they would fight to the death.
Today we are reminded of an ancient war that began in Eden. The perfect peace and prosperity of Paradise was lost when a fallen angel convinced mankind to follow the demons in rebelling against their Creator. When Adam fell, he condemned the world to darkness and death. The enemy of God claimed that the children of men now belonged to him. God was having none of it. He promised he would send forth his champion, his Son. And so, today we see a battle of champions. The demons send forth their strongest warrior—Satan. God sends forth the best of men, Jesus Christ. Jesus does what Adam and we could not. In crushing the devil, Jesus meets one of our greatest needs.
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Throughout his ministry, Jesus said astounding things and did astounding things. Yet, he looked like a normal man. The prophet said, “He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him” (Isaiah 53:2). This would all change one day atop a high mountain. There, Jesus gave his disciples—gave his Church—a glimpse of the glory he set aside to be our Savior.
And the voice of the Father thundered from the heavens, just as it did at Jesus’ baptism, announcing Jesus’ true identity to the world—the glorious Son of God. And so the Transfiguration of our Lord serves as a one-week bridge between the season of Epiphany, where Jesus is revealed as the true Son of God, and the season of Lent, where we witness what the Son of God came to do.
On the Mount of Glory, St. Peter declared, “It is good for us to be here.” Indeed! For here we see the God of Majestic Glory, who became a man to suffer and die for us, just as Moses and the Prophets had foretold. Oh, how much this glorious God loves us!
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The word “holy” comes from an Old English word, “halig” which means “whole” or “healthy.” We have a holy God. He wants us to live a holy life, one that is wholly dedicated to him, one that is spiritually and emotionally healthy for us. So, as Jesus continues his Sermon on the Mount, he makes a crucial point that not all his followers (including present day followers) understand well. Jesus came to free us from sin. He did not come to free us to sin. God commands that we live a holy life. He provides dire warnings to remind us just how holy he wants us to be. Today we face a rapid decline in public morals and private piety. Yet, Jesus calls his followers to be different. He urges personal purity. After examining our lives, we can only despair over our lack of holiness. So, the Gospel Acclamation reminds us to flee to Christ who loves us despite our failures and who sacrificed himself for unholy people. Secure in his grace and empowered by the Holy Spirit, each day we strive to live the holy lives to which we have been called.
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The word “holy” comes from an Old English word, “halig” which means “whole” or “healthy.” We have a holy God. He wants us to live a holy life, one that is wholly dedicated to him, one that is spiritually and emotionally healthy for us. So, as Jesus continues his Sermon on the Mount, he makes a crucial point that not all his followers (including present day followers) understand well. Jesus came to free us from sin. He did not come to free us to sin. God commands that we live a holy life. He provides dire warnings to remind us just how holy he wants us to be. Today we face a rapid decline in public morals and private piety. Yet, Jesus calls his followers to be different. He urges personal purity. After examining our lives, we can only despair over our lack of holiness. So, the Gospel Acclamation reminds us to flee to Christ who loves us despite our failures and who sacrificed himself for unholy people. Secure in his grace and empowered by the Holy Spirit, each day we strive to live the holy lives to which we have been called.
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Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with a series of blessings. “Blessed are…” Jesus says, again and again. In the Latin Vulgate, these all begin with the word “beati” which translates as “blessed” or “happy.” Thus, this portion of the sermon is often called “The Beatitudes.” It had to give Jesus’ listeners pause. For what Jesus calls blessed, the world never would. The world praises the strong and the self-sufficient. Jesus calls blessed what others would see as weak or stupid. But, like any good preacher, Jesus is trying to drive home one crucial point. The weaker you are, the more ready you are to rely on God’s strength. The more difficult your present circumstances, the likelier you are to yearn for future reward.
All the readings for today teach this truth. We have no real strength or wisdom of our own. But we don’t need it. Because God’s strength is enough to give the kingdom of heaven to the humble and poor in spirit.
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The prophet Isaiah vividly described humanity as “people walking in darkness.” We are completely enveloped by sin and suffering and death. Worse, when we honestly assess the content of our minds and hearts, we find darkness there too. However, the prophet also foretold that within this deep darkness, a light would shine. The light would be so brilliant that it would be impossible to miss. As Jesus began his teaching and preaching ministry, that prophecy was fulfilled.
Today Jesus continues to shine his light by preaching repentance and the good news of the nearing kingdom. He invites us to live a life that is illuminated by him. He calls us to walk in the light of love for God and for the brothers and sisters around us. Our Savior is the Light of the world, and so we shine his reflected light onto everyone around us.
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“Christ” is not Jesus’ last name, of course. It is a title. The Greek word “Christ” and the Hebrew word “Messiah” both mean the same thing—“The Anointed One.” Anointing was the practice of pouring liquid (typically oil) over the head of someone to signify selection for some special task. However, when the Lord anointed heroes to do his saving work, what he poured over them was his Spirit.
For centuries people of faith had patiently waited for the promised Messiah, the servant of God who would bring the salvation we so desperately need. The time had come for Jesus to be revealed as the fulfillment of that divine promise. So, Christ our Lord came to the Jordan River to be baptized, that he might be recognized by John and revealed to Israel. At his baptism Jesus was anointed—marked as God's special servant and empowered by the Spirit of the Lord.
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Christmas holidays mean family time. Extended family travel and visits. Meals are prepared, gifts are given, memories are made. The memories might not all be good. Sometimes, Christmas dinners end in fights. Sometimes, hurt feelings keep family from coming together during the holidays. The painful reality is that we sinners fail our families, and our families fail us. God knows what that’s like. He, too, wanted his children to be everything he hoped for them to be. But he was sorely disappointed. That’s why he made a plan. God the Father sent Jesus to be the son that he always wanted—reciprocal in love, perfect in obedience, unwavering in devotion. Jesus came to be everything that God wanted from us. By coming to be the true Son of the Father, Jesus gives us rights to be redeemed sons and daughters—sons just like Jesus with the rights, the relationship, and the privileges of heirs.
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For centuries on Christmas Day, the Church has read chapter one of St. John’s Gospel. There, in just a few simple words, Scripture describes the indescribable: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14). The word God had spoken in the Garden, promising to send a Savior who was part of mankind, came true. God himself became flesh and blood—to be born under law, to suffer, and to die that he might redeem us. The Greek word translated “made his dwelling” can also be translated as “pitched his tent.” That word describes a temporary dwelling place. God came into our broken world to dwell for a time so that one day we might go to God’s perfect home and dwell for all eternity. Unlike those Christmas Eve shepherds, we cannot see Christ with our eyes. Yet still, he dwells among us. For he is the Word made flesh. As we listen to the Word today, we truly are hearing the voice of Christ. As we celebrate the Lord’s Supper, we partake of his true body and blood. In Word and sacrament, still today, our Savior dwells among us, feeding our faith, and preparing us for our true home.
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Families cherish their Christmas traditions. Year after year, they decorate the tree with the same ornaments, play the same music, bake the same Christmas cookies. Without asking, family members know when they will open presents. If you try to change your family’s Christmas traditions, you just might pick a fight! When it comes to family Christmases, people generally don’t like things to change. Because our celebration of Christmas is so steeped in unchanging traditions, it might be easy for us to miss that the Nativity of the Son of God meant radical change for the world. The birth of the Christ child meant that nothing in the world would ever be the same. We even divide history into the events that occurred “Before Christ” (BC) and after “Anno Domini” (AD), Latin for “Year of our Lord.” Christmas traditions are wonderful. But make no mistake about it. Christmas is all about change. The Lord God came to change the world by becoming part of the world. Because we are part of the world, that means Christmas changes us too. This Christmas Eve, we see how.
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This time of year it is so easy to get caught up in the beautiful trappings of Christmas and forget why this birth had to take place. Mankind fell into sin. Sin brings an awful burden. Hatred and oppression. Suffering and pain. Guilt and shame. The devastation of death. These are all natural consequences of sin. And what can we do about any of it? Nothing of substance. We can numb ourselves to pain, but we cannot avoid it. We can fill our life with distractions in an attempt to forget about our guilt. But our conscience is always nagging. And death… no one avoids that. Man can do nothing to shake off the burden of sin. Therefore, the Church prays that God would come in power to remove that burden for us. Since the Garden, there has been only one plan to do that: God would take on flesh and blood. To do what mankind could not do—remove all the burdens of sin—God became man. When you look into the manger, what do you see? A baby? Yes. But, more. That is Immanuel, “God-with-us.” The Son of God became Mary’s son so that he could do for us what we could not do for ourselves.
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When Jesus comes back as judge, everyone will face a binary outcome. Either they will be judged riHumanity wants a made-to-order Messiah. We want the Savior we want. The Jews wanted a political Messiah who would remove Roman oppression and reestablish the kingdom of Israel. The generic Christian of today wants a Messiah who is a good teacher and an inspiration for brotherly love. Even faithful Christians face the temptation of a made-to-order Messiah. We want a Messiah who isn’t bothered by the sin that keeps cropping up in our life, who doesn’t call for total dedication but is fine if we only want a relaxed association with him. We want a Messiah who dispenses blessings liberally, to ensure that our life is blessed, as we would like to define it. That is not the Messiah who came. Jesus defies the expectations of Israel, the world, and us. Jesus reminds us that “blessed” is a term that he defines, and it begins with not rejecting the Messiah because he fails to meet our expectations. One proof that Jesus is the Messiah is that he fulfilled every prophecy. Therefore, blessed people respond to adverse circumstances with patient waiting and confidence that, at just the right time, their Messiah will fix all that is broken in their lives.
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Did you know that “Christ” is not the last name of Jesus? It’s a title that means “The Anointed One.” In the Old Testament, there were three main offices, jobs, or positions that people were “anointed into.” Oil was poured over the heads of prophets, high priests, and kings at the beginning of their service. Yet there were prophecies of a better Anointed One who was yet to come. In Hebrew, he was called the Messiah, and in Greek, the Christ. He would be the perfect prophet, priest, and king, preaching God’s word, offering a better sacrifice, and ruling for all time. In our worship service, we will explore some of the Old Testament prophecies of the Savior who would come, foretold as prophet, priest, and king.
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When Jesus comes back as judge, everyone will face a binary outcome. Either they will be judged righteous and experience the peace and joys of Paradise. Or they will be judged wicked and suffer unquenchable fire (Matthew 3). John the Baptist’s job was to point to the only way to prepare for a judgment, one where the stakes are that high. Repent! And look to the Lord Jesus. For when Jesus came into our world the first time, it was not as judge, but as Savior. All those whose faith is in Christ have already been judged righteous. Please, take these words to heart: the reign of God draws near, and his judgment is inevitable. As John the Baptist once said, “All people will see God’s salvation.” The only question is if one sees Christ’s second coming with joy or regret. For those who fail to repent, the coming of the Judge brings certain doom. But his people will see that Judge like a banner on the hilltop, rallying us to his glorious side.
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Why would the Church Year begin with a gospel reading that describes an event near the very end of Jesus’ life—his entry into Jerusalem at the start of Holy Week? Because the events of Palm Sunday serve as a perfect summary of the entire plan of salvation. It is an odd sight, this man riding into Jerusalem on a baby donkey, to cheers and the celebratory waving of palm branches. Understandably, many asked, “Who is this?” The answer: This is not just a rabbi. This is the King of all Creation. This is God Almighty wrapped in flesh. Yet, he does not enter Jerusalem with all his glory and power on display. The King hides all that and rides into Jerusalem so that he might also be our priest and sacrifice.
This is a King unlike any other ruler who has ever lived. For he is infinitely greater than all other kings, while simultaneously being infinitely humbler. This King is willing to trade his golden crown for one made of thorns. This King comes not demanding our service but to serve us. You look at how good, how loving is this King, and you ask that question upon which eternity hinges. “Who is this?” As we march through this new Church Year, the answer becomes crystal clear. This King is the Savior of the nations.
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On Thursday of this next week, people across our nation will pause their regular routines for Thanksgiving. We easily lose the original focus of the day in the hubbub of extravagant food, football, online shopping, and traditions. At its heart and origin, the day is a time for reflecting on the blessings God gives and giving Him thanks. We know there have been years in our past when we were overwhelmed by the blessings we could see in our lives. We also know there have been years when we had to look a little bit deeper to find them.
It is good for us this Sunday to be reminded why God would tell us in his Word: “Give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Give thanks to him for he does not change. Give thanks to him because his blessings are still with us. Give thanks to him because he keeps all his promises.
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Jesus promised, “I am coming soon” (Second Reading). But what does soon mean to the one who is the Alpha and Omega, the eternal God? We do not know. We want Christ to return quickly because we know the Last Day will be a day of great deliverance for God’s people. But how long will we have to wait? Will it be in a few months or a few millennia? We cannot know. As we await Christ’s return, we want to avoid two extremes: impatience and indifference. Let us not despair if the deliverance of the Last Day does not come as quickly as we would like. But let us never doubt that that deliverance will indeed come. How do we avoid those extremes? How does Christ’s church remain ready and watchful? In this last week of the Church Year, our Savior does what he has done all year—point us to his Scriptures. The Scriptures record countless promises that have already been fulfilled in Christ. That assures us that the as-of-yet unfulfilled promises are as good as done. There is no doubting that the Last Day will come. There is no doubting it will be a day of blessed deliverance for God’s people.
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We believe in “the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints” (Apostles’ Creed). All with saving faith in Jesus as their Savior are holy. (Saint comes from the Latin word sanctus which means holy.) God grants the status of saint to all believers. Since sainthood is achieved through faith in Christ, we refer to believers as the invisible Church. Members are unknown to us since only God can see the heart. Furthermore, even if we knew the identity of each saint on earth, they would not look all that different from the rest of mankind. Believers still struggle with trials, temptations, and sin. Nor does membership in the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints make life easier. In some ways it makes life more difficult as we struggle against a world that is hostile towards Christ. However, some members of the communion of saints no longer struggle with trial and sin. They are not oppressed by an anti-Christian world. These are all the saints who, through their Christian death, have triumphed over all these things. The blessedness of being God’s saint is no longer invisible for them. They live in the glory of Christ’s light. This week, we thank God for those members of the communion of saints who have gone before us and now enjoy everlasting life. We feebly struggle, just as they once did. But now, thanks to Christ, they in glory shine. Their example encourages us as we patiently wait to join them.
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We value freedom and strive to protect freedoms. But do we truly understand freedom? Freedom for many means doing what you want without control or coercion. Jesus helps us to understand true freedom: “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (Gospel). Jesus says that you will never be free by living however you want. Take that attitude towards life and you'll be a slave. You'll only be free—spiritually, emotionally, eternally—“If you hold to my teaching” and therefore “know the truth.” A key principle Martin Luther established through the Reformation is sola scriptura, Scripture alone. Luther thought it was the answer to all of life’s fundamental questions. On what basis is a belief or practice justified of rejected? Scripture alone. Who or what is the final arbiter of truth? Scripture alone. Heirs of the Reformation still bind themselves to Scripture. Does restricting ourselves in this manner curtail freedom? Just the opposite is true. God’s divinely inspired truth brings freedom. It frees us from slavery to sinful delusions, the burden of guilt, and any earthly power. This week we see that when we willingly bind ourselves to truth, Jesus keeps his promise. The truth sets us free.
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Last week we heard Jesus ask, “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” (Luke 18:8). As we consider Jesus’ question, it might be easy to assume that any decrease in faith we observe in the world corresponds with an increase in secularism and disdain for God’s Word. That type of unbelief certainly can be observed in our world. However, today we see there is another type of unbelief, a type that looks upright and moral. The absence of the faith Jesus seeks isn’t always complete and total rejection of God or the Bible or even Jesus. It is possible for someone to have respect for Scripture and Christ, yet ultimately trust in his own goodness when it comes to his relationship with God. It is natural for us to want to believe that our relationship with God revolves around our obedience to his commands. We desperately desire to believe that, if we just apply the right spiritual advice and effort, we can earn God’s approval and eternal inheritance. This, too, is unbelief, just as much as paganism or secularism. This week Jesus uses God’s law for its chief purpose: to expose sin and crush our natural pride. In Christ’s hands God’s law is a powerful tool used to shape in us the faith he seeks—one totally dependent on God to do what only he can do.
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Gratitude is the appreciation and thankfulness we feel when someone does something kind to us or for us. There are two key factors that influence the intensity of gratitude. First, there is the deservedness factor. Say you do a favor for your neighbor, picking up his mail when he is out of town. A month later he does a favor for you, giving you a ride to the airport. You are grateful for his help, but not overwhelmingly so. You feel by doing a favor for him, you deserved his help to some degree. Second, there is the generosity factor. Say you do that favor for your neighbor, picking up his mail when he is out of town. When he gets back, he gives you a hundred-dollar bill. You’re stunned. “I can’t accept. This is too generous.” Apply this to God. Consider the deservedness factor. What does God owe us? How deserving are we of his blessing? Consider the generosity factor. What has he done for us? What blessings has he given us now? What blessings has he promised us in eternity? As Jesus increases our faith, so that we accurately answer all those questions, we become more than grateful. We overflow with gratitude.
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Disciples of Jesus need to learn how to pray. We need Jesus to teach us to ask for those things which our Father in heaven promises us. We need to learn to claim in prayer what he wants for us more than what we want from him. However, learning to pray is not like many of the other things we learn to do in our lives. Once we know how to write our name, tie our shoes, or ride a bike, the learning is done. There is virtually no danger we will forget how to do those things. Not so with prayer. Prayer is not something we learn to do once and then know how to do correctly for the rest of our lives. Learning to pray consists of a lifetime of persistence and struggle. But when we struggle with God in prayer, it is not an indication that something is wrong but that everything is right. Struggle is part of the very nature of prayer and at the heart of the blessings it brings in our lives of faith.
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Look up “duty” in the dictionary. It's defined as “something that one is expected or required to do.” Look up “duty” in a thesaurus. Some of its synonyms: chore, burden, obligation, work. “Duty” can carry some strong negative connotations. Now, consider this. In the world, as you rise through the ranks, you are able to leave many duties behind. For example, if you are high-up on the corporate ladder, you can delegate things you don’t want to do to someone else. In Christ’s kingdom it works just the opposite. An increase in faith does not lessen duties at all. It increases opportunities to serve God and others. Increased faith means increased obligations and work. But here’s the good news. The same faith that increases our duties leads us to delight in them. For through faith we know that we serve the one who first came to serve us. We consider it a privilege to imitate Christ in our service to others. Just as his service to us brought him great joy, so does our service to others.
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There are more than 2300 Bible passages that speak about money. Why? Money is a master Satan frequently tempts us to serve. And that evil foe knows how successful his efforts with money can be. Money provides us with a false comfort and a sense of security. It serves as a source of pride. It serves as a wonderful tool for a favorite pastime: justifying ourselves in our own eyes and the eyes of others. Jesus knows that serving money makes it impossible to serve God. The human heart is not big enough for both. As a result, Jesus does all he can to expose the futility of serving money. He also helps us see that the only one truly worth serving is our gracious, loving God. When we serve God, money is put in its proper place. Instead of money being a lord to serve, it becomes a resource for serving the Lord. This is the hard truth. There is no way for us to serve both God and money. But we can serve God with our money.
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“He’s lost.” We use that term not only to refer to someone who is bewildered about where they are but also to refer to someone who is in a helpless, hopeless state. Mankind’s natural state is one of complete spiritual helplessness, a profound lostness. It manifests itself in countless ways. The one who simply wants God to leave him alone: lost. The one who feels she can handle life on her own: lost. The one who thinks he has the right to repent of his sins on his own timetable and on his own terms: lost. The one who thinks God owes them in some way: lost. Wandering around physically lost can lead to winding up in bad places. But the hard truth is that wandering around spiritually lost puts you in the worst place of all. Fortunately, Jesus does not leave us alone in our lostness. He relentlessly seeks us. He involves the rest of the Christian community in seeking the lost and rejoicing over the found.
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It is an unavoidable hard truth. Our relationship with Jesus will put us in situations where we must decide where love for him ranks compared to love for other people and things. And Jesus is not content to be one of many important things in our life; he wants to be first. He wants us to follow his Word unwaveringly, even when he asks us to do difficult things. As a result, following Jesus will force us to let go of things we love and embrace things we would naturally loath. Jesus is loving and honest. He doesn’t hide this hard truth! Instead, he tells us up front that we must count the cost of following him. That means calculating what we might have to give up as his followers. He wants us to do that now, ahead of time, rather than waiting until we are in the heat of the moment and emotions are running high. However, our calculations should not only consider what we might give up for Jesus. They also entail calculating what we get through him! When we perceive the infinite blessings we find in Christ, the decisions we must make, while difficult, will be clear. Whatever is lost as we follow Jesus pales in comparison to what we gain.
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Everyone knows that humility is a positive trait and pride is a negative one. So, why bother talking about what we already know? Because in spite of that knowledge, we still helplessly fall into the trap of pride. We cannot help but think that our ascent to the exalted status we desire is our responsibility. We even take our exaltation into our own hands, either by treating poorly those we believe we can stand on top of or by showing favoritism to those we believe can provide us with upward mobility. Rather than minimizing pride as a sin that is common or harmless, Jesus’ words today confront us with this hard truth. Those who exalt themselves will be humbled by God. But Jesus also gives us the promise we need to be freed from pride’s trap. Our exaltation doesn’t need to be our responsibility because Jesus has already made it his. Those who humble themselves, Christ will exalt.
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When it comes to the difficult and uncomfortable topic of who goes to heaven and who goes to hell, it is natural to want to avoid the issue. One way we do that is to direct our attention to theoretical questions. “What is heaven like?” “How old will we be there?” Today, someone asks Jesus, “Lord, are only a few going to be saved?” Jesus brushes these questions aside. Instead, he answers the question we should be asking. Rather than talking about how many will be saved, Jesus explains how to be among the saved. What he teaches today through his Word is a hard truth. The doorway into heaven is narrow. Scripture consistently teaches that those individuals who are certain they will be first through that door are more likely to be last, if they make it through at all. Instead, the one who believes he is the last one God should let into his kingdom and that his only chance of getting in is through the grace of Christ will enter first.
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Last week Jesus warned us against overvaluing earthly wealth. This week Jesus warns against undervaluing heavenly treasure. Last week, Jesus exposed the folly of greed. This week, Jesus exposes the folly of worry, even when faced with the prospect of having a shortage of earthly wealth. This week might be the bigger challenge! When it seems, we lack providence or protection for our daily lives, it can be hard to avoid worry. But Jesus focuses us. He points to creatures that do not labor or toil yet are daily fed and clothed. Even more Jesus points to our Father who promises to give us the heavenly treasures of his kingdom. Jesus assures us that Father will throw in needed earthly possessions as well. We can pursue heavenly treasure wholeheartedly, confident that our Father knows all we need.
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Jesus wants focused followers. However, one of the things that can most easily get in the way of our focus is our earthly possessions. It is no surprise, therefore, that Jesus’ words so frequently focus his followers on wealth. Jesus’ followers don’t reject earthly wealth or despise it. They can be grateful for every good gift that comes from the hand of God. However, Jesus’ followers value earthly wealth correctly. They understand what earthly wealth can and cannot do. They don’t give earthly wealth a role in their lives it will never be able to fill. This week we focus on the fact that the identity and security earthly wealth can never provide is found fully and freely in Christ.
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We often divide humanity into groupings that are not really significant: this ethnic group versus that one, men versus women, wealthy versus the poor. Yet, every ethnic group is under God’s law. That law convicts both men and women of sin. Because of sin, the wealthy and the poor will both die. Only through faith in Christ is sin forgiven and the sting of death removed. God’s Word creates that saving faith, but not in everyone who hears it. Fallen man retains the awful power to resist the working of the Spirit inside him… to reject the gift of faith. Therefore, God’s Word produces the only people grouping that ultimately matters: believers and unbelievers. We want to overcome division and live in peace with other people. Here is a hard truth: total peace is impossible for the believer to achieve. Those who embrace the gospel in faith will inevitably face hostility and opposition. Following Jesus will come at a price. Yet he promises us our perseverance will be rewarded.
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We call worship a "service.” Which raises the question: who is serving whom? In answering that question, it is easy to focus on what we do in worship. “I set aside time in my week to come to church. I am singing praise to God. I brought him an offering. Clearly, I am serving him.” True enough. However, as God speaks this week, he clarifies our focus, letting us see that worship is primarily about him serving us. Through Word and sacrament, he delivers every spiritual gift he wants us to receive. Our service to God is good. His service for us is perfect. Our service to God is important. His service for us is essential. God loves our service to him. But we desperately need his service for us. Receiving his service is actually the highest form of worship. “God wants to be worshipped through faith so that we receive from him those things he promises and offers”.
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In a sense, prayer comes naturally to us. We want so we ask. We hurt so we cry out. We are frustrated so we vent. We are blessed so we give thanks. So we sometimes define prayer as “speaking to God from the heart.” Seems so easy. What does not come naturally, however, is the focused prayer God wants for us. We need focus when it comes to the basis of our prayers. Our prayers are based entirely on the unique and unearned relationship with have with God, our Father. We also need focus when it comes to the content of our prayers. Yes, we can speak from the heart and ask for anything we want. But our Father invites us to pray specifically for the things he wants to give us. Prayer is the opportunity to bring our will into conformity with God’s will, not the other way around. We have much to learn about prayer. So, along with Jesus’ disciples, we say, “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1).
Bulletin
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We tend to think of distraction and focus as opposites. If someone is focused, they are not easily distracted by random events and encounters. If someone is focused, every decision about how to spend time and resources is calculated. Apart from Christ that type of focus spells disaster for our neighbor. We may dismiss the needs of our neighbor, thinking, “If I spend time helping him, that will distract me from other things I should be focused on.” Today, Jesus teaches us that he has set us free to live a life of such distractions. No matter the neighbor and no matter his need, we are free to act in ways that seem senseless. We are free to actively seek out a neighbor in need. We are free to bear any cost and go any distance to serve them as Christ would serve them.
Bulletin
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Christ has not only given us his powerful Word. In his grace, he gives us ministers who proclaim that Word to us in whatever ways we need at the time: words of comfort, words of instruction, or even words of rebuke. Those who are entrusted with the care of Jesus' flock are expected to shepherd that flock just as Jesus would. They humbly assume that privilege, not to proclaim their own ideas or opinions, but to speak Jesus’ own words. They share Christ’s words, not just when it is welcomed gladly by those who hear it, but also when it is not. Ministers carry out their calling, not because of what they might gain from the flock, but because of what the flock might gain from Jesus through them. God’s words possess God’s power. Therefore, God provides us with ministers to proclaim God’s Word, so that God’s kingdom might come powerfully among us.
Bulletin
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There’s the type of fan who follows his team if they make the playoffs. Then there’s the type of fan who, regardless of his team’s record, watches every game and knows the stats for every player. There are different types of followers: the half-hearted versus the committed. Jesus is uninterested in half-hearted followers who shoehorn him into their lives only when their other pursuits provide time for Christ. Jesus wants followers who are all-in… who love him above all things… who would be willing to leave everything else behind if that were what it would take to be with him. We simply do not have it in us to produce that level of commitment. But Jesus’ words have Jesus’ power. In his gospel, Jesus explains how he went all-in for our salvation. He tells us he left the comforts of heaven behind to come rescue us. And through those words, Christ creates within us the very commitment that he seeks.
Bulletin
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God’s words are so powerful! With only his words, Jesus cured illness and raised the dead. With his words, Jesus created the faith that receives his forgiveness. So we should not be surprised this week when we see that Jesus’ words also have the power to push back the spiritual forces of evil that are in the world. Jesus’ words expose idols as worthless and following idols as self-destructive evil. Jesus’ words are so compelling, even demons must obey them. It is not surprising that God’s words crush evil. It is a surprise, however, to see that Jesus’ words have Jesus’ power even when they are not coming from Jesus’ mouth. Jesus puts his words on our lips. He makes us his witnesses. And as we carry out that awesome role, Jesus continues to drive back Satan and his allies, just as he did when he walked the earth.
Bulletin
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The Scriptures never use the words “Trinity” or “Triune.” They never even summarize in any single place the entirety of this doctrine. Instead, as we read God’s Word from the first verse of Genesis to the last verse of Revelation, he gives us hints and glimpses of his Triune nature. Thus, the doctrine of the Trinity can seem very academic, even abstract. It may seem to have little relevance to the Christian’s daily life. Nothing could be further from the truth. Instead, as God provides those hints and glimpses, his primary focus is on the way in which his Triune nature is a blessing to us. God shows us how we benefit from the fact he exists as Trinity. God dwells in a “majesty and mystery” that far exceeds our understanding. But here is what we can understand. Every time we gather in the name of the Lord, our Triune God, we receive indescribable blessings.
Bulletin
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Jesus ascended into heaven. That does not mean the gospel has ceased to march victorious around the world! Jesus promised to send another advocate to represent God to the world: the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is the constant companion of believers in these Last Days. This raises an important question. If God now reveals himself by his Spirit, where is the Holy Spirit found? God has not left the answer to that question in doubt. When Jesus promised to send the Spirit, he indicated that his work would be connected to words, specifically God's Word. As a result, we need never wonder where we can find the Spirit. He marches victorious through the Word.
Bulletin
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When Jesus' followers gathered together, they comprised a group that was not very diverse. They all belonged to the same ethnic group, grew up in the same culture, and spoke the same language. That would change drastically on Pentecost, when the gospel would be proclaimed in many languages to people from "every nation under heaven" (Acts 1:5). This diversity has always been part of Christ's plan. Rather than eliminating differences among the Church's members, the Church's unity is built on truths that transcends those differences. The Church truly is a communion of saints. Differences in our world often lead to division. Therefore, when the world sees the unity in diversity that characterizes Christ's Church, it will recognize something unique and special about Christians.
Bulletin
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Conventional wisdom says that joy is a direct result of circumstance. Our disposition is nothing more than a product of the events, conditions, and relationships of which our life consists. Therefore, it would seem that for our disposition to change, our circumstances need to change. But Jesus offers us a joy that is superior. It is not a product of circumstance; it's a product of Easter. Easter proves that God can take what normally causes people to weep and turn it into what causes people to rejoice. Sin, death, and shame went into Jesus' tomb. Forgiveness, life, and glory came out. Our risen Savior gives us a joy that remains constant in the highest of life's highs and the lowest of life's lows. It is a joy that can never be taken from us.
Bulletin
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The world is full of talkers. There are plenty of people who say they care about you. But we are aware of what many of those people will do when it comes time to put those words into action. Jesus tells you in his Word that he cares for you dearly… that he would do anything for you. How do you know you can trust him? Jesus followed up his words with works. Jesus said he would suffer and die for you so that you might enter Paradise. He fulfilled that promise. Jesus' words are followed by works. He once illustrated that point in a striking metaphor, that of the Good Shepherd. All shepherds use words, calling to the sheep hoping they will follow. What sets the Good Shepherd apart is the fact that his words are followed by his works, including his willingness to lay down his life. Every word our Good Shepherd speaks to us is trustworthy!
Bulletin
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A recent survey asked Americans which of the five senses they would least like to lose. 77% chose sight. Navigating life blind poses, a plethora of challenges that the sighted do not face. This is why Scripture often uses the concept of blindness as a metaphor for how hard it is to navigate life without a correct understanding of Christ. Spiritual blindness can take many different forms. In some cases, it is hostile opposition to the message of Jesus. In others, spiritual blindness might be demonstrated in confusion about Jesus' true identity. No matter the specific form spiritual blindness takes, Easter has the power to replace it with sight. Easter allows us to see where we sinners stand with a holy God. It enables us to see the path though life that is worth pursuing (as opposed to those that lead to a dead end). Spiritual sight gives us the ability to see who holds our future in his hands and who is worth our eternal worship.
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The good news of the risen Christ is bigger than a single day. The Easter gospel will continue to march across centuries and continents. However, there will always be forces that try to slow that march. Those forces could be self-inflected fears and doubts (Gospel). They could be various types of persecutions (First and Second Reading). Whatever the case, the good news of Easter will not be restrained. For it is not some myth or fable, not a hoax or conspiracy. The reality of Easter rests on the testimony of eyewitnesses. Therefore, the gospel cannot be boxed in any more than Christ could be put back in a tomb. Many may try and restrain the good news of Christ. But the march of the Church's witness will never slow down.
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Death hung like a suffocating shroud over us all. It was a constant source of sorrow and shame. Death doesn't just bring life to an end. The impending threat of death spoils every moment of life that leads up to it. The moment Christ emerged from the tomb, however, nothing would be the same. Life was unleashed on humanity and it will reign until death and its effects are no more. The salvation Christ brings is not just a rescue from a world gone bad but a resurrection to a world that will once again be good. Christ's victory restores life to us even now. Even as we continue to wipe the tears that death causes, we can defiantly taunt this fallen tyrant: Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!
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Good Friday is very different than a funeral. At a funeral, we celebrate the blessings of someone's earthly life. But we also mourn the fact of their death. Their death is something we wish we could forget. In the case of Jesus, his death is the very thing we gather to celebrate and remember. In fact, we prolong the remembrance. We dwell on the details. We even call this day "good." For we know why Jesus willingly endured the agony of the cross. It wasn't a tragic miscarriage of justice. Jesus suffered this punishment vicariously. He was pierced for our transgressions and crushed for our iniquities. Because he did, we are now right with our holy God. Jesus' punishment is our peace.
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As the sun set on Holy Thursday, the day marked the end of something old and the start of something new. The Old Covenant, which God had established through Moses, was two-sided. God's people would follow God's commands; God would bless his people. However, rather than providing God's people the opportunity to live up to God's demands, the Old Covenant only exposed their flaws. When God established his New Covenant, it was not a two-sided contract. It was more like a will, listing all the blessings God promised graciously to give his people. No matter who you are or what you have done, the blessing of the New Covenant is "for you." Eat the food Christ offers, and all your spiritual and eternal needs are satisfied.
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The events of Palm Sunday might not seem pivotal to our salvation. Christ sheds no blood on this day. However, Palm Sunday sets the tone for all of Holy Week. It perfectly illustrates that Jesus came to be the kind of king this world will never understand: one who conquers his enemies by surrendering to them, one who crushes his opposition by himself being crushed, one whose path to kingly exaltation begins with humiliation. This is the kind of King we have marching into battle as one of us and for all of us this week. As a result, we are drawn to him in faith rather than driven away in fear. This humble King is our only hope.
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Last week we saw that the governing principles of Christ's kingdom initially seem upside down. This week we see that truth in how Christ would have us react to those who wrong us or oppose us. Jesus asks us to befriend our enemies, to love those who hate us, and to repay evil with good. Logic would say that is a recipe for being walked all over. Yet, have we not seen this tactic work? When we were Christ's enemies, he loved us to the point of death. He repays our daily evil with the daily goodness of his mercy. In doing so, he has won us for himself. Following the strategy Jesus lays out today is not a capitulation to evil. It is a means of conquering it.
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We assume people get what they deserve. We assume what goes around comes around. We assume God helps those who helps themselves. And all those assumptions must be crushed. Got does not operate on the principle of merit but of grace. Like gravity, grace is a constant force at work in how God deals with us and how he wants us to deal with others. No one is beyond the reach of God's grace. God never turns it off. When the weight of our sin makes us fearful of God's condemnation, he reveals his grace yet again.
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Where is God? This is one of human beings' most frequently-asked and incorrectly-answered questions. We are tempted to believe that evidence of God's presence is found in outward circumstances. We equate good fortune with God's favor and bad fortune with his judgment. So, as long as nothing terrible is happening, God must not be too angry with us, right? We are free to go on sinning. Such foolish assumptions must be crushed. Therefore, God must constantly remind us where he intends to be found—in the gospel. He makes himself present in Word and sacraments. Because he is always present, we realize the urgent need to turn away from the sin he despises. Because his presence is graciously hidden, we are drawn to him for forgiveness rather than driven away from him in fear.
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Last week we talked about temptation. This week we see what is at the center of every temptation: a promise of a shortcut to glory. Even in a world as sharply divided as ours, there is near-universal agreement that the preferred path to glory is the shortest and easiest. To walk the path our Savior puts us on, one on which the cross comes before the crown, puts us out of step with the world. Thankfully, the determination required to walk this path starts with our Savior and not with us. Because of his determination, we are offered a glory far superior to anything the world can offer.
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It was a custom known as "battle by champion." Two opposing armies would each send out their best warrior to fight each other. That is what we see this week. The demons send their champion: Satan. Humanity's best warrior, Jesus Christ, steps forward to meet him. In this fight he does not use his divine power. He uses the same weapon we have, God's Word. Because Christ fought the battle against Satan as one of us, he won that battle for all of us. Jesus is our perfect substitute. Even as the devil still seethes in rage against us, we can face him and his temptations unafraid, confident that our champion has already won the victory.
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Last week we saw that the governing principles of Christ's kingdom initially seem upside down. This week we see that truth in how Christ would have us react to those who wrong us or oppose us. Jesus asks us to befriend our enemies, to love those who hate us, and to repay evil with good. Logic would say that is a recipe for being walked all over. Yet, have we not seen this tactic work? When we were Christ's enemies, he loved us to the point of death. He repays our daily evil with the daily goodness of his mercy. In doing so, he has won us for himself. Following the strategy Jesus lays out today is not a capitulation to evil. It is a means of conquering it.
Service Program
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When someone is new to something, there is a period of orientation. For example, when someone takes up a new game or sport, they need to first learn the rules. Likewise, when someone is a new disciple of Jesus, a period of orientation follows. It's necessary because by nature we assume that Jesus' kingdom works the same way the world works. The truth that is uncovered this week is that the principles on which Jesus' kingdom runs are the exact opposite of the principles of the world. That which the world considers to be a blessing can often be a curse. And that which the world calls bad, God always uses for the good of those he loves.
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It does not surprise us that from the beginning of his ministry Jesus demonstrated his commitment to proclaiming good news of the kingdom of God, regardless of whether people rejected his message or embraced it. That was Christ's agenda, and he was committed to it. What is surprising is that, also from the beginning, Jesus demonstrated his plan to carry out this proclamation by sending others to speak on his behalf. More surprising is whom he sends, not angels, but mere human beings. In many cases, it was individuals who seemed to lack the qualifications to speak on Christ's behalf. Yet, Christ equipped and prepared them. Do you feel unqualified to tell others the good news? Then be assured, Jesus plans to use you exactly for that purpose.
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When one proclaims God's Word, typically the intentions are good. We want others to know the joy of salvation and the love of Christ. Therefore, it can be surprising to us when God's Word is met with apathy or rejection by those who hear it. It's easy to conclude that when the Word of God offends human minds and hearts (including our own), something has gone wrong. The truth that is uncovered this week is that rejection of Jesus' words is not the exception but the rule. Jesus' words will always offend. However, we will see that God can use even the rejection of his Word for good.
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When one proclaims God's Word, typically the intentions are good. We want others to know the joy of salvation and the love of Christ. Therefore, it can be surprising to us when God's Word is met with apathy or rejection by those who hear it. It's easy to conclude that when the Word of God offends human minds and hearts (including our own), something has gone wrong. The truth that is uncovered this week is that rejection of Jesus' words is not the exception but the rule. Jesus' words will always offend. However, we will see that God can use even the rejection of his Word for good.
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Is the pursuit of God and the pursuit of pleasure two separate paths? Many make that assumption—that life with Jesus is a boring, sterile experience. They are dead wrong. Jesus came to undo everything that is wrong with our world as a result of sin's curse. He also came to multiply our joy and deliver delight beyond our wildest dreams. Note that when Jesus begins to reveal his glory, it isn't by going to a hospital to cure every ailment. Instead, he starts at a local wedding, one of the greatest sources of joy in this life. The truth uncovered for us this week is that life with Jesus is not a life with less delight, but infinitely more.
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Our sight tends to be the sense we trust most. We say we will believe something when we see it. That presents a problem when it comes to the work of God. So often what our eye sees differs from what God decrees. This is true of the life of Jesus. In the eyes of the world, he was nothing special. This is also true in the life of the Christian. To the world, the believer does not look more blessed than the unbeliever. In fact, the believer may appear to have more hardships as the devil and his allies attempt to destroy him. So, to assure his children, God connects his grace, power, and blessing to something we can see—a visible sign: the anointing of baptism.
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The twelve days of Christmas are quickly nearing their end. Likewise, our worship series—What Child Is This—comes to an end today with the Festival of the Epiphany, a celebration of the first time non-Jewish believers worshiped the newborn Savior. They were guided by a special light in the sky to a child who would be a light for all people. We live in a world where sin can divide people along so many lines: ethnicity and race, rich and poor, red states and blue states, etc. The only dividing line Jesus cares about is the one that separated sinful mankind from a holy God. By his death and resurrection, he removed that line and united all believers into one kingdom. For that, we offer him our finest gifts.
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Already as a child, Jesus' saving work had begun. His entire life, he served as our substitute, perfectly obeying God's Law. Just think of how we often neglect the study of God's Word. Then look at twelve-year-old Jesus, eager to be in the temple learning more about Scripture. However, he would need to do more than be our substitute. Eventually he would lay that perfect life down as the sacrifice for our sin.
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By this time of the holiday season, people are often weighed down. They feel guilty about presents that are not perfect, or parties that did not go as planned, or year-end projects that did not get completed. To top it all off, now is when it dawns on people how little attention they have given to the spiritual preparation Advent invites. If that is how we feel, perhaps the frenzy of December has actually done us a favor. We have been stretched to our limits. We have been made aware of our shortcomings. We have been humbled. Perfect! For being made aware of our weaknesses does not disqualify us from God's care. It does the opposite. It is what prepares us for the work he does best. He is a God who lifts up the humbled.
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Last week we saw that the Lord sends messengers to call us to repentance. This week we learn that those who refuse to heed that call to humble themselves will be humbled anyway. The Lord who once came near in flesh and now comes near in Word and sacrament will one day come near with consuming fire and judgment. The Lord will humble his enemies. This truth does two important things. First, it adds urgency to God's Advent call to repentance. Second, it gives us comfort when we, as God's people, experience opposition from the world. Those who oppress and harm God's people will face justice.
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People tend to feel a lot of pressure this time of year. We want our houses to look good for out-of-town guests. We want to impress people with the thoughtfulness of our gifts. What a welcome relief, therefore, to hear what is required to meet the Lord: only repentance. You see, Jesus is not someone we need to impress with our good works. Indeed, repentance is the opposite of work. Repentance is the humble admission of our sin combined with the joyful trust that everything needed to bring us close to God has already been done by him.
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What would it be like to meet God? We know he is almighty and holy. He loathes sin. No wonder that when God appears to his Old Testament people, their first response is typically terror. But when Jesus Christ came into our world, he hid his glory and power. He humbled himself so that sinners would be drawn to him rather than driven away in fear.
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It’s been said that the sun is always shining; it’s just that sometimes clouds keep us from seeing it. In the same way, there are splendid realities that God describes in his Word that are often clouded by the current conditions of life in this world. As we near the end of the church year, God gives us a “peek behind the curtain” to see the reality that is already ours in Christ—a reality we one day will be able to see with our own eyes.
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It’s been said that the sun is always shining; it’s just that sometimes clouds keep us from seeing it. In the same way, there are splendid realities that God describes in his Word that are often clouded by the current conditions of life in this world. As we near the end of the church year, God gives us a “peek behind the curtain” to see the reality that is already ours in Christ—a reality we one day will be able to see with our own eyes.
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This week we acknowledge that God alone deserves the glory for the rescue he has accomplished for us. Since the beginning of time, people have been more likely to give glory to their rituals and behavior than to God. Today people are very interested in how God should glorify us with happiness and fulfillment, but not so interested in finding happiness and fulfillment in the gifts God has already given. Let us, therefore, still confess that God has saved us in Christ, that this promise of God is the most valuable thing we have, and we are more than happy to thank him by saying, "To God alone be the glory!"
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We have heard about the blessings that come from being part of the Church? So why would I want to join a Christian congregation of believers? Why join a church? Our Scripture readings and our sermon will help us see the blessings God has in mind for us when we gather together with our fellow believers in a church!
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You have gifts, talents, abilities, and blessings that God has given you in his grace. As a member of his Church, they are things God gives you to use! We are called to off er all that we are to the God who made us a member of his Church. When people see you live your life as a Christian, when they see that you serve God through a life of service to others and not of self, when you let your light shine and carry out the mission God has given you, this not only brings glory to God, but helps you see your place in his Church!
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You have gifts, talents, abilities, and blessings that God has given you in his grace. As a member of his Church, they are things God gives you to use! We are called to off er all that we are to the God who made us a member of his Church. When people see you live your life as a Christian, when they see that you serve God through a life of service to others and not of self, when you let your light shine and carry out the mission God has given you, this not only brings glory to God, but helps you see your place in his Church!
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We have learned what the Church is: all believers of all time, everywhere. We have heard why the Church gathers: to rejoice in God’s goodness. We have heard where we will find the Church: where the Gospel is proclaimed in Word and Sacrament. Today, we listen to our God as he teaches us what the Church is all about. What is the Church supposed to do? Proclaim the Gospel to all people so that all may be members of the Church and adopted into God’s family!
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Since Adam and Eve were created in the garden of Eden, believers have gathered together. God’s people gather. It is not a question: God’s people gather? Nor is it a command: God’s people gather! It is simply a statement of fact: God’s people gather. This is just what they do. Over the next several weeks, we are going to look at the blessing of being able to gather with fellow believers, and look at the multitude of blessings God’s brings to our lives because God’s people gather!
Today, we are going to see that church is much more than a building or the activities that go on there. Church is a precious gift from God — a safe-haven from all that can harm us, a place where we find purpose and meaning for our lives. And as we see the blessings God gives, the Church will be something that we will dearly cherish as God’s people.
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Since Adam and Eve were created in the garden of Eden, believers have gathered together. God’s people gather. It is not a question: God’s people gather? Nor is it a command: God’s people gather! It is simply a statement of fact: God’s people gather. This is just what they do. Over the next several weeks, we are going to look at the blessing of being able to gather with fellow believers, and look at the multitude of blessings God’s brings to our lives because God’s people gather!
This week, we see that God’s people gather regularly to rejoice in God’s grace, that is, to rejoice in all our God has done for us and gives to us as we gather! Let us rejoice in the blessing of being able to gather together!
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Once something becomes habit, it’s easy to forget why we started doing it in the first place. The same goes for our spiritual habits. It’s important for individuals and churches to regularly reassess what they’re doing and why they’re doing it.
This week Jesus helps us reset our definition of efficiency. Efficiency is defined as getting the maximum results with the minimum amount of wasted time, effort, or energy. The problem with that definition is that we tend to measure only the results we can see, which often leads us to conclude that something is a waste of our time or attention. Thankfully, Jesus shows us how what often seems inefficient is the most effective in his kingdom. Because he has done all things well, we can joyfully seize the opportunities to serve others that he gives us.
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Once something becomes habit, it’s easy to forget why we started doing it in the first place. The same goes for our spiritual habits. It’s important for individuals and churches to regularly reassess what they’re doing and why they’re doing it.
This week Jesus helps us reset the source of our righteousness. A wide variety of seemingly strange habits can be explained by our universal need for righteousness. Seeking righteousness in things that we do isn’t a habit we even need to develop—it’s part of our nature. Instead, it’s a habit that needs divine intervention to break. Thankfully, Jesus' words not only help us do that. They also develop a new habit that is truly strange—finding our righteousness only in him.
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Reporters and writers are often looking for sound bites—short, attention-grabbing statements they can turn into a headline. When Jesus spoke—whether to massive crowds or just his closest followers, he didn’t give them unsatisfying samples of his divine wisdom. With his words, he always aimed to leave his hearers full. This week we hear Jesus confront us with the difficult truth that we can only satisfy the hunger of our souls with o
ne thing. Jesus’ words force us to choose between life with him or life without him. However, because his words are full of life and the Spirit’s power, this choice is really no choice at all. By offering his blessings fully and freely to all, the most important choice—Jesus’ choice—has already been made.
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Reporters and writers are often looking for sound bites—short, attention-grabbing statements they can turn into a headline. When Jesus spoke—whether to massive crowds or just his closest followers, he didn’t give them unsatisfying samples of his divine wisdom. With his words, he always aimed to leave his hearers full.
This week we hear Jesus warn us against trusting our own expectations for what will fill our souls. There’s a universally-accepted common sense that governs life in this world. To that common sense, what Jesus offers our hungry souls appears to be foolish. That foolishness, however, is in fact God’s wisdom. It cannot be accepted by the spirit of this age but must be revealed by the Spirit of God.
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Reporters and writers are often looking for sound bites—short, attention-grabbing statements they can turn into a headline. When Jesus spoke—whether to massive crowds or just his closest followers, he didn’t give them unsatisfying samples of his divine wisdom. With his words, he always aimed to leave his hearers full.
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Sermon Archive
Reporters and writers are often looking for sound bites—short, attention-grabbing statements they can turn into a headline. When Jesus spoke—whether to massive crowds or just his closest followers, he didn’t give them unsatisfying samples of his divine wisdom. With his words, he always aimed to leave his hearers full.
Reporters and writers are often looking for sound bites—short, attention-grabbing statements they can turn into a headline. When Jesus spoke—whether to massive crowds or just his closest followers, he didn’t give them unsatisfying samples of his divine wisdom. With his words, he always aimed to leave his hearers full.
This week we hear Jesus feed us with words that give us courage. Jesus assures us and demonstrates to us that his presence never leaves our side, no matter what waves might surround us. If we have our eyes fixed on him, we can have courage no matter the storm.
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Reporters and writers are often looking for sound bites—short, attention-grabbing statements they can turn into a headline. When Jesus spoke—whether to massive crowds or just his closest followers, he didn’t give them unsatisfying samples of his divine wisdom. With his words, he always aimed to leave his hearers full.
This week we hear Jesus feed us with words that give us purpose. It’s easy to think that the goal in life is to accumulate as much wealth, possessions, and property as we can in order to use these things for our own enjoyment. Jesus teaches us that God blesses us richly so that we can be richly generous toward others. In doing so, we serve as his own hands as he provides for his creation through us.
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Reporters and writers are often looking for sound bites—short, attention-grabbing statements they can turn into a headline. When Jesus spoke—whether to massive crowds or just his closest followers, he didn’t give them unsatisfying samples of his divine wisdom. With his words, he always aimed to leave his hearers full.
This week we consider the source of the sound bites we are consuming. By comparing himself to a shepherd who tends a flock of sheep, Jesus makes it clear that his interest in all that he does—including what he says—is our good. In contrast to other voices who seek to lead and influence, our good shepherd wants us to follow him, not for his gain, but for ours.
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We have heard the past weeks how in God’s Word, we have comfort and strength for our sufferings and even death. God now gives you and me the privilege of sharing the comfort and strength God gives in his Word with others. But, that will bring its own challenges and hardships. It isn’t always easy to share God’s Word with others. Other times, we won’t be treated well when we tell other about you. God’s Word continues to strengthen us and gives us to courage to share our Savior!
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We have heard the past weeks how in God’s Word, we have comfort and strength for our sufferings and even death. God now gives you and me the privilege of sharing the comfort and strength God gives in his Word with others. But, that will bring its own challenges and hardships. It isn’t always easy to share God’s Word with others. Other times, we won’t be treated well when we tell other about you. God’s Word continues to strengthen us and gives us to courage to share our Savior!
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Last week we saw that faith does not eliminate suffering from our lives. Today we see that the suffering includes even death. The unbeliever who has only tears and despair in the face of death vainly hopes in his fear that death ends all. The Christian clings to the one who has overcome death for us even when faced with death.
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We live in a time filled with identity issues. People are struggling to figure out who they are and what their place is in this world. Social media, pop self-help, and a sinful world has distorted people’s ideas of what is important and where our significance can be found. But, there is a place we can go for reliable answers. God’s word clearly and simply gives us a solid footing on who we are and comfort for our anxious times. Today, God shows us how his Word serves as a refuge for us when our life and our world seem out of control. Through his Word, our God comforts us and gives us a peace that only he gives.
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We live in a time filled with identity issues. People are struggling to figure out who they are and what their place is in this world. Social media, pop self-help, and a sinful world has distorted people’s ideas of what is important and where our significance can be found. But, there is a place we can go for reliable answers. God’s word clearly and simply gives us a solid footing on who we are and comfort for our anxious times. Today, we hear our Lord talk to us about our faith, something his Word creates in us and something that guides our service and purpose in life!
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We live in a time filled with identity issues. People are struggling to figure out who they are and what their place is in this world. Social media, pop self-help, and a sinful world has distorted people’s ideas of what is important and where our significance can be found. But, there is a place we can go for reliable answers. God’s word clearly and simply gives us a solid footing on who we are and comfort for our anxious times. Today, God points us first to his Word as the solid foundation that we build our identity and life on.
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The mystery of the Holy Trinity is beyond our comprehension. Yet it is proclaimed in Scripture and believed by Spirit-wrought hearts of faith. We believe in the one true God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The height, depth, and breadth of our God gives us peace as we travel towards eternity.
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Though he has withdrawn his visible presence, Jesus is closer to us than ever. Therefore, whatever the future holds, we will not fear!
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Our resurrected Savior has not only risen in victory, he has ascended into heaven and now sits on his throne ruling over all things for our good. He has promised that he is always with us, that he will never forsake us, and that he will strengthen and guide us each and every day. This not only gives us confidence each day in our journey with Jesus, it emboldens us to share our journey with others! Go! Tell of Your Reigning Lord!
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Even though most of us (all of us?) have never tended sheep, we have an understanding of the picture. A shepherd caring for, guarding, and providing for helpless and defenseless sheep. That is part of the picture before us today—our Savior, our Good Shepherd, who laid down his life for us, his sheep. God encourages us with his Word so that through us, other sheep may hear the voice of their Good Shepherd and believe. Go! Tell of your Good Shepherd!
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You are forgiven! Through Jesus' death on the cross and the empty tomb on Easter, forgiveness is yours. Through Word and Sacrament, our God keeps our hold on that forgiveness strong and gives us the courage to share that Good News of forgiveness with others!
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An engagement is announced, a child is born, a promotion is received, a birthday is celebrated… good news travels fast and is celebrated with joy. Easter brings even better news—sin is forgiven, the devil is defeated, death is destroyed! This is great news that we are not only to celebrate with joy, but to eagerly share it with others! Our Savior gives us the privilege and responsibility to tell others of the peace we have in our risen Savior! Go and share this news with everyone!
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Are you looking for hope that stands firm in the face of pandemic, unrest, insecurity, or worry? Join us this Easter in-person or online to learn how the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead gives certain hope for uncertain times. It is proof that God will keep his promises to forgive our sin and fix this broken world.
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The road to the cross was a struggle. Jesus would be rejected by his people and betrayed by his disciple. Satan tempted him to give up, but he pressed on to the cross for you. The Christian life is a struggle. The struggle is real. Faith in Christ doesn’t make us exempt from difficulties. But faith in Christ does give us the strength to press on. God calls us to struggle against the devil and his temptations, the world and its pressures, and our own sinful nature and its desires. At times, it feels like that struggle is lost. We fail, we doubt, we sin, we rebel against our God and his commands. And no matter how hard we try, we can’t shake our conscience and its ever-present accusations. The struggle seems lost. But today, we see our victor, though he doesn’t look it. Humble, gentle, and about to die. But in his humility, there is power. And in his death, there is victory. The struggle seems lost, but here comes our victorious king!
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The road to the cross was a struggle. Jesus would be rejected by his people and betrayed by his disciple. Satan tempted him to give up, but he pressed on to the cross for you. The Christian life is a struggle. The struggle is real. Faith in Christ doesn’t make us exempt from difficulties. But faith in Christ does give us the strength to press on, even when the struggles seem relentless. Today, as we struggle against our own weaknesses and through our own hardships, we look back to God’s past performance, his ongoing faithfulness, and his unfailing love for strength in our battles, for confidence in our future, and the final and ultimate victory that is ours in Christ.
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The road to the cross was a struggle. Jesus would be rejected by his people and betrayed by his disciple. Satan tempted him to give up, but he pressed on to the cross for you. The Christian life is a struggle. The struggle is real. Faith in Christ doesn’t make us exempt from difficulties. But faith in Christ does give us the strength to press on. Today, we consider those moments when the struggle seems too much and the guilt too great. No matter what trials we go through, no matter what we may face in this world, today’s Psalm encourages us to cling to God’s promises, to the forgiveness our Savior won for us, and to fervently pray for God’s deliverance.
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The road to the cross was a struggle. Jesus would be rejected by his people and betrayed by his disciple. Satan tempted him to give up, but he pressed on to the cross for you. The Christian life is a struggle. The struggle is real. Faith in Christ doesn’t make us exempt from difficulties. But faith in Christ does give us strength to press on. Today, we consider that our struggles here on earth can quickly sap our strength and patience. So, the Psalmist takes us back to God’s Word where our God not only reminds us of who he is, but he empowers us by his Word so that we can live according to his will. By God’s grace, we strive to shape our lives around his Word.
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The road to the cross was a struggle. Jesus would be rejected by his people and betrayed by his disciple. Satan tempted him to give up, but he pressed on to the cross for you. The Christian life is a struggle. The struggle is real. Faith in Christ doesn’t make us exempt from difficulties. But faith in Christ does give us strength to press on. Today, we confront the fact that often, the struggles we have seem unfair. We look around and see people who are dishonest, who cheat, and who seemingly are getting along just fine here on earth while we struggle and suffer. Life seems so unfair at times. Our Psalm today lifts our eyes to our Savior and the ultimate good he has brought to me with his life, suffering, death, and resurrection. In my Savior and the final outcome of eternal life he gives me, I find reason not only to praise him in the midst of my hardships but to also rejoice in his care and love for me.
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The road to the cross was a struggle. This Lenten season, we see Jesus descend the mount of glory so that he could enter a valley of suffering. He would be rejected by his people and betrayed by his disciple. Satan tempted him to give up, but he pressed on to the cross for you. Hebrews 2:18 says, “Indeed, because he suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.“ The struggle was real.
The Christian life is a struggle. The struggle is real. Faith in Christ doesn’t make us exempt from difficulties. But faith in Christ does give us strength to press on. This Lenten season, we will meditate on the words of the Psalm writers, who put the struggle of the believer into poetry and prayer. They cried out to God when they struggled against their enemies, against temptation, against guilt, and against the perspective that this life is unfair. The Psalm writers were able to press on in the struggle because they know that their God was in control. They knew and prophesied that the promised Savior was coming. Their struggle is our struggle. Their hope is our hope. Their God is our God. This is a Savior who entered our struggle to win the victory over the struggle, to equip us for our struggle. The struggle is real. The struggle is good.
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Throughout the season of Epiphany, we have been seeing all the different ways that Jesus proved himself to be the Savior. However, the season of showing his glory to those he has called is coming to a close. We stand at the threshold of the season of his ultimate humiliation. But before we go down to the valley of the shadow of death, he gives us a glimpse of the glory which he hid so carefully even while he was revealing it. Lent is coming; hang on to the glory that soon will be covered in shame and washed with blood!
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During the season of Epiphany, we are seeing how Jesus reveals himself and proves that he is our Savior and King. The devil, the world, and our sinful nature try hard to convince us that our many sins, failures, and troubles in life are too great for God to forgive or overcome. They try hard to get us to doubt God’s love, his plan and purpose in our life, and ultimately, his forgiveness that is ours in Jesus. Today, we hear Jesus say that the purpose in his coming to earth was to proclaim the Gospel—the Good News that a Savior had come to forgive sins… your sins. Now, we have an answer to our doubts, our fears, our troubles—a Savior who had us in mind when he came to earth to accomplish our salvation; A Savior who still has us in mind as he works out our troubles for our eternal good.
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During the season of Epiphany, we are seeing how Jesus reveals himself and proves that he is our Savior and King. Today, we ask, “Does Jesus have the authority that God said the Savior would have?” As we hear from God’s Word, we see that God’s Son has authority over all powers, even the demons. For the child of God, there is great comfort in know that because of his authority, we are always safe in his arms. And because of his authority and power, we now strive to obey him!
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Find out how Jesus reveals himself as your Savior and King! This Epiphany season, we are reminded that Jesus is everything we need.
We are bombarded with messages each day - what we should buy, where we should eat, why our side is good and the other side is bad,... and so many more. All claim to be right and all clamor to be the most important in your life. In today's worship, however, our Savior helps us to realize that he has the only message that the world, and you and I, need to hear. He is the world's Savior, and there is nothing more important than being called to follow him and to share that message with others.
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Find out how Jesus reveals himself as your Savior and King! This Epiphany season, we are reminded that Jesus is everything we need.
You have probably already discovered how difficult it is to convince someone of something, especially if they already have their own ideas about it. Today, we see how God’s Word has the power to convince people that Jesus is who he says he is—the Savior God had promised. Jesus comes to save us from our sins and convince us through his Word that he is our Savior!
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Find out how Jesus reveals himself as your Savior and King! This Epiphany season, we are reminded that Jesus is everything we need. This week, we rejoice in Jesus' baptism. There, Jesus is revealed as God's Son, sent from the Father, to save us from sin. As we marvel at God's love in sending his Son for us, we remember our own baptisms, where God washed our sin away and made us his children.
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Find out how Jesus reveals himself as your Savior and King!
Is Jesus really who he claimed to be? When someone makes a claim, our first response might be to say, “Prove it!” Can Jesus prove it? Our readings over the next several weeks will let Jesus words and actions speak for themselves and answer our questions. This week, we rejoice in the sign that God gave to the wise men, not only leading them to their Savior, but showing that this Savior was for all people, just like God promised and Jesus proclaimed.
A year like this proves that just about everything in life is fragile. Like a delicate Christmas ornament, our lives can shatter at a moment’s notice. Thankfully, God provides us with Christmas gifts that are unbreakable. In his Son, he gives us peace, joy, and hope that nothing can destroy. Today we see how the Christ child gives us an unbreakable comfort through life’s pain and disappointments. It is found only in a baby born to a peasant couple. Most missed it then, and most miss it today. But a few saw it—and they sang and rejoiced that God had sent salvation to his people and had made it known to them. By God’s grace, you and I see it too!
God has sent us salvation and revealed himself to us in the Christmas gospel; in revealing himself he gives himself and all that he is and has for us and for our salvation—not only a reason to rejoice, but an unbreakable comfort for life’s pain and disappointments.
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For so many people all that Christmas is about is the trite and trivial—snowmen and Santa Claus, Rudolph and reindeer, Christmas movies and holiday specials. These things are fun, but ultimately, completely empty. But take a closer look at what happened today—and you will see that there is nothing trite or trivial about it: The deepest lowliness is but the mask for the greatest glory, the glory of him who came to be our Savior!
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Our worship this Christmas Eve is an adaptation of the Lessons and Carols service traditionally held at King's College, Cambridge, England, on December 24th every year. "Lessons and Carols" was first held on Christmas Eve, 1918. It was planned by Eric Milner-White, who at the age of thirty-four had just been appointed Dean of King’s College after experience as an army chaplain.
Our focus, “The Greatest Gift,” is found in every lesson and song. The progression of lessons and songs will gradually reveal more and more about this greatest gift. Imagine yourself as someone who over centuries is trying to figure out the nature of God’s gift. Or, if the readings are not familiar to you, let the meaning of God’s gift become clearer and clearer to you as you hear each lesson and sing each song.
By trusting what God’s gift means for us, we look forward to seeing that gift in heaven where God’s “praise will sound” for all eternity!
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A year like this proves that just about everything in life is fragile. Like a delicate Christmas ornament, our lives can shatter at a moment’s notice. Thankfully, God gives us the perfect wish list for a year like this. He shows us what to ask for in order to have a Christmas that is truly unbreakable.
This week we are reminded that God always keeps his promises. Though it often takes a long time (from our perspective) and even when his promises don’t make sense to us, God always delivers. Therefore, while we are often tempted to ask God for what we want him to do, we can always confidently ask him to do what he has promised to do: Keep your Word!
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A year like this proves that just about everything in life is fragile. Like a delicate Christmas ornament, our lives can shatter at a moment’s notice. Thankfully, God gives us the perfect wish list for a year like this. He shows us what to ask for in order to have a Christmas that is truly unbreakable. This week we see how God’s Word teaches us to realize the true condition of our world and our hearts. Just as our eyes adjust when it is dark, it is easy to get so used to the spiritual darkness of our world and of our own hearts that we forget about it. Thankfully, God’s Word doesn’t just show us we are in darkness. It points us to Jesus, our true and only light. As a result, we pray this Christmas: Shine on us!
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A year like this proves that just about everything in life is fragile. Like a delicate Christmas ornament, our lives can shatter at a moment’s notice. Thankfully, God gives us the perfect wish list for a year like this. He shows us what to ask for in order to have a Christmas that is truly unbreakable.
The Savior is coming! Get ready! It was the job of John the Baptist to prepare God’s people for the Savior’s arrival. As we prepare to celebrate that coming, the message hasn’t changed for you and me. The Savior is coming! Get ready! Are you ready? Today we hear hos God’s simple but powerful message proclaimed by his messengers to prepare us for our Savior’s coming—so we can confidently pray: Come to us!
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A year like this proves that just about everything in life is fragile. Like a delicate Christmas ornament, our lives can shatter at a moment’s notice. Thankfully, God gives us the perfect wish list for a year like this. He shows us what to ask for in order to have a Christmas that is truly unbreakable.
This week we start a new church year with a prayer that is appropriate for every season and every year of life: Save us! Jesus’ presence in our lives can bring all kinds of benefits and blessings. Ultimately, however, we need him to be our one solution to our greatest need. We need to him to rescue us from sin and death. And so we join our voices with the crowds on Palm Sunday: Hosanna! Save us!
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What is your reaction to all that has happened so far in 2020? Perhaps it is a simple shake of the head. Maybe the sentiment is more “this year can’t end soon enough.” Perhaps it goes even further—”Worst year ever.”
Today, as 2020 slowly draws to a close, God’s Word encourages us even in the midst of a bad year, a frustrating year, a year where so many things seems to have gone wrong…. To give thanks! It doesn’t take long for us to see how God has shown his faithful love in all the blessings he has showered in our life. And not just what we need for our daily life—he has given us forgiveness, a purpose in life, and eternal life in heaven. Even in the midst of hardship, trial, and a bad year, we can Give Thanks for He is Good!
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He will come to judge the living and the dead. We confess it every Sunday, but often live like those are empty words. How quickly and how often don’t the cares and concerns of this world distract us. How soon don’t we forget that at any moment this world could come to an end. May the words of Moses shake us from our spiritual slumber: “Number your days aright and gain a heart of wisdom!” Today we pray that God keep us ever mindful of the Judgment that we might be found in faith, fruitful in both word and deed. Then there’s no need to fear Judgment Day; rather, we can look forward to the day of our redemption. Lord, Keep Us Through the Coming Judgment
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Lord, keep us watchful for our triumph! Today the Church hears strains of the distant triumph song and affirms, “Blessed are they who are called to the marriage feast of the Lamb.” Jesus wants us to be the waiting Church—the Church that watches for her Savior and cries, “Come, Lord Jesus!” As we journey through these latter days, however, our vigilance slips, and our hearts grow drowsy because the bridegroom seems to be taking so long. So while we wait, the Church prays, “Keep us ever watchful for the coming of your Son that we may sit with him and all your holy ones at the marriage feast in heaven.”
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Today, the Christian church celebrates All Saints' Day, when we remember all those who have finished their race and kept the faith. As God’s children, we rejoice that we too are saints, holy ones who have been made perfect through the cross of Christ and kept in God’s hands. As saints waiting for our crown of life, we strive to follow the example of the saints who have gone before us, persevering through life with all its difficulties, and clinging to the faith our God has given us. So, we pray, “Lord, Keep Us as Your Children!”
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Today in our worship, we celebrate the Festival of the Lutheran Reformation of the Church. Our worship emphasizes our unfailing reliance on the Word of God and unflinching testimony to it in the face of persecution. We pray that the Lord give us the strength to be faithful and the peace of knowing our lives are safe in his hands. Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word
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In the last week of this series, God finally speaks to Job. And he doesn’t hold back. Near the end of the book, we can see that the primary focus of Job’s life was Job, just as we each so easily fall into the temptation of making our lives all about ourselves. With some of the most powerful words in Scripture, God reminds Job that the universe doesn’t revolve around Job. It revolves around God. A life focused on God will never disappoint. A life focused on self always will.
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Our current worship series is looking at the book of Job. Most people know that Job was a man who suffered, who went through a lot of heartbreaking things that nobody would want to go through. But that is only the first 2 chapters of the book. In the remaining 40 chapters are all about the journey through life that Job went on - where he learned a lot about himself, about his God, and about life along the way.
This week shows us Job confronting God directly and lamenting, “I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil.” Can those words be spoken by a child of God? Is it possible that Job lost his faith during his struggle? Can you sincerely question God and still have sincere faith? At the very least, this week shows the very real impact suffering and pain can have on even the most godly disciples. Job obviously didn’t understand everything that was happening to him. But he didn’t need to in order to find comfort. He simply needed to be reminded who his God is. In our moments of hardships and suffering, because we don’t have God’s understanding, we’re going to have questions for him. However, we don’t need answers or understanding of what is going on to find comfort. Instead, we are reminded of the goodness of our God and his unending love for us, even when things don’t look very good.
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The feeling of not being in control is unsettling. Sometimes that happens when we are in a bad or seeminglyhopeless situation. Other times, things may happen that are outside of our control and serve as an uncomfortablereminder that we don't have as much control over life as we may like. . In our worship today, we look at verses inwhich Job’s loss of control had become too much for him to bear. Perhaps like Job, you've been there too. Beforewe panic over our loss of control, God can use it for our good. God uses this feeling to help us answer the questionof who/what our God really is. Do we make that feeling of being in control a false god? Is our god our ability tocontrol our lives? Do we worship God only to get good things from him? Or is our God the true God; the one whouses his control over all things to love us and save us from our brokenness? Today, we are comforted and encouraged by the truth that God is in control!
In 1920, the first campus ministry program began at the University of Wisconsin—Madison. For 100 years, thousands of young adults have found spiritual comfort, community, and encouragement through Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s (WELS) campus ministries around North America. Through our Congregation Mission Offering to the our national church body, the WELS Campus Ministry, a ministry of WELS Home Missions, continues that legacy by providing resources and support to congregations that serve these college students during a critical transition point in their life. The Campus Ministry Committee currently provides about 30 campus ministries with financial support and assists hundreds of other congregations in their campus ministry outreach
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Our current worship series is looking at the book of Job. Most people know that Job was a man who suffered, who went through a lot of heartbreaking things that nobody would want to go through. But that is only the first 2 chapters of the book. In the remaining 40 chapters are all about the journey through life that Job went on - where he learned a lot about himself, about his God, and about life along the way.
Friends are a wonderful blessing from God in our lives. Today, we will see what God's Word has to say about what a true friend is by focusing on the words and actions of Job's friends. Instead of being supportive, they instead try to convince Job that he was being punished by God which discouraged him and only made his suffering worse. As followers of Christ, we will discover how best to be a friend in a world that is filled with pain.
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Job didn’t suffer alone. His wife experienced all the same losses. But their reaction could not be more different. How does a follower of Christ respond to the pain we feel in our relationships? Our God leads us to see how he dealt with the pain that sin brought into our relationship with him by bringing peace and reconciling us to him. That same love and forgiveness shown to us now moves us to respond in love and mercy, in a way that brings peace to our relationships.
Today, we begin a new 6-week worship series on the book of Job. Most people know that Job was a man who suffered, who went through a lot of heartbreaking things that nobody would want to go through. But that is only the first 2 chapters of the book. The remaining 40 chapters are all about the journey through life that Job went on - where he learned a lot about himself, about his God, and about life along the way.
Life often breaks out hearts too and throws us on to journeys - some we expected, many we didn't. On those journeys through life, God wants to teach us a lot of things about himself, his Word, and his promises. He wants to teach us how to get through life filled with peace wherever the journey of life may take us.
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Sermon preached at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Birmingham, AL on Sunday, August 30, 2020.
Our worship series, Fearless, focuses on the boundless nature of the Christian life and how the gospel gives us no reasons to fear and no limits to where we’ll take the gospel.
Today, we rejoice in the news that God has brought us to faith and revealed to us all that our Savior Jesus did for us. In Jesus, our sins are forgiven and we have eternal life. Now, we boldly proclaim this truth and our Savior’s name to the people in our life so that they too no longer need to live in fear.
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Our worship series, Fearless, focuses on the boundless nature of the Christian life and how the gospel gives us no reasons to fear and no limits to where we’ll take the gospel.
Today, God tells us that his Gospel has no bounds and knows no borders. We are reminded that because he died for all people, forgiveness is for all people, no matter how far away or how different they may be form us. So, we ask God to give us a heart like his—a heart and a zeal that fearlessly seeks all the lost.
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For the next three-weeks our worship will focus on the boundless nature of the Christian life and how the gospel gives us no reasons to fear and no limits to where we’ll take the gospel. Today, we hear the encouraging promise from God that we have nothing to fear because Jesus has conquered everything that could separate us from him. That fearlessness given by the Gospel and our dependence of our Savior fills our lives and permeates our actions so that we can be bold in all that we do!
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In our worship service today, we are going to hear example after example of our God has provided for his people. From Elijah being fed by ravens to our Savior feeding the 5000, our God provides. God feeds hungry mouths and hungry souls with his gifts of grace. What does our God now teach us with this promise that he will provide? When we bring our problems to Jesus, he will richly supply all we need. Trust in God to provide!
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Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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As believers, we understand the theme for today’s worship service—Seek Spiritual Wealth. We should be striving for the spiritual blessings God gives through Word and Sacrament instead of having our heart set on the physical blessings he also graciously provides here on earth.
But how easy it is for us to forget. How we don’t often try to find security in earthly treasures like possessions and money. We tend to find our sense of worth based on what we have—earthly treasures. And how often don’t our earthly treasures push the spiritual wealth we are supposed to be seeking off to the side?
In today’s worship, we hear our gracious God urge us to find our foundation in life in the sure promises that he will richly provides for us, and then we can give thanks by being rich in good deeds. Our spiritual wealth is certain and secure, for it is treasure laid up in heaven.
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God has given us a special treasure and it is the best treasure ever - heaven!Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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Jesus tells the story of a field of wheat filled with weeds. What is a farmer to do? He doesn’t have all the specialized chemicals that can target a specific weed and kill it without harming his crop like farmers today.
The point of Jesus story? Jesus compares the wheat to believers and the weeds as unbelievers – both mixed in, living side by side in the field of this world.
What to do about the weeds? The Lord most certainly has a plan to separate the wheat and weeds, believers and unbelievers—just not yet. He has servants standing by to do the work—they’re just not us. Instead, God urges his people to live with their eye on the coming harvest. We ask God to give us to wisdom and ability to think and to do what is right—even while we live in this sinful world mixed in with unbelievers.
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God is the active force behind every step of turning someone into a Christian, providing not only the means, but also the power and Spirit that creates new life in what was once spiritually dead. At times, it seems hard to see the truth that God is reigning over all things. It seems like things are spinning out of control—in the world, in our community, and occasionally, even in our life. Today, we are reminded that our God has saved us through his death, and is not reigning over all things for our good and out of his great love for us. With that in mind, we ask God to help us to live confidently in that truth and to put him and his gospel first in our lives
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God is the active force behind every step of turning someone into a Christian, providing not only the means, but also the power and Spirit that creates new life in what was once spiritually dead. Today, we are reminded that our God not only brings us to faith, he also keeps us in our faith and preserves us through trial and tribulation. Because we have that promise from God, we can do what our Savior commands: we will love our enemies, bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for them who persecute and harass us. We have nothing to fear because our living God preserves us .
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God is active in every step of us becoming a Christian and one of his children. He planned our rescue before the creation of the world, he speaks the good news of the Gospel to us, and he has called us to faith. Today, we learn that not only has God spoken his word to us and called us to be his children, but he now sends us out into the world to share what he has done!
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God is the active force behind every step of turning someone into a Christian, providing not only the means, but also the power and Spirit that creates new life in what was once spiritually dead.
God not only plans and carries out our salvation, he then sends us our with his Word to share with people in our lives the great things our God has done. God's Word today will strengthen and empower you to carry out this important work!
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A children's message on Father's Day about our heavenly father!Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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God is the active force behind every step of turning someone into a Christian, providing not only the means, but also the power and Spirit that creates new life in what was once spiritually dead. Today, we look at one of those means God uses to bring someone to faith and keep them in their faith: the inspired Word of God. Through that Word, God speaks and the Spirit brings spiritual life. When God speaks, he wants us to listen, to apply it to our lives, to teach it to our families, to share it with others. The Word ultimately lays the foundation for Christian teaching and life.
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God’s got a plan. No where is that more clear than when it comes to our salvation. God’s plan was for his disciples to boldly and confidently go out into the world proclaiming the Gospel in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. As a result of their mission work, God’s plan was for his gospel to eventually come to each of us and bring our dead hearts to life. It was his plan that each of us should become a Christian through the Great Commission. Today, we see part of God’s plan continue to unfold as three children of God confess their faith in the Triune God who saves us. As we hear the disciples bold proclamation and his children’s confession today, may we recognize that God continues to carry out his plan through us as we share the gospel with the people he has put in our lives.
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Pastor Ben talks about how our God is three-in-one... its a mystery, but its true!Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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50 days after the Passover, God’s Old Testament people celebrated the gathering of the harvest at the Festival of Weeks. It was on this occasion, 50 days after Christ's resurrection, that God sent the promised Counselor, the Holy Spirit, on the day we call “Pentecost” (Greek for “fifty”). This day marked the birthday of the New Testament Church and celebrates the harvest of souls won by the Son and gathered by his servants empowered by his Spirit. Today, as we recall the gift of the Spirit we pray for that same understanding of God's Word and boldness to witness to the world the good news of salvation.
Pentecost is the third great festival of the Church and has been commemorated since at least 217 A.D. The Church dresses in red to remind us of the tongues of fire that marked the Spirit’s gift and the blood of the martyrs which was the seed of the Church. This day culminates the Season of Easter when our risen Lord now empowers his people to be witnesses of the resurrection for the world.
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A children's message on how God sent, and continues to send the Holy Spirit through his Word so we can share the Gospel!Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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In our current sermon series, "You Are My Witness", we see that God calls us to be his witnesses. We do not worship a God who is distant and inattentive to this world. Instead, at Jesus's Ascension, we are reminded that the risen Christ now rules over this world. He is in complete control, working all things out for the good of us, his witnesses and messengers of the gospel.
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Help Pastor Ben fill in the blank as we remember all that Jesus did for us!Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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In our current sermon series, "You Are My Witness", we see that God calls us to be his witnesses. He has given us the facts of our Savior's death and resurrection and now sends us into the world to share this with our friends and family. But he wont send us alone. He has given us his Holy Spirit to give us the power, words, and actions to share this gospel message.
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You can't see the air all around you, but it's there. Same thing with the Holy Spirit!
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At times, the world and our lives seem hopeless. At times, we experience the pain and betrayal of broken promises. This Sunday, we hear a message of hope in a world of hopelessness and a message of promises kept in a world of broken promises.
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Pastor Kratz shares a letter from God and a message of hope with the kids today, including a poem with actions.
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Even as safe-at-home self-quarantining seems to be nearing an end, it doesn’t take much to feel alone and helpless. This week, we will be encouraged by our Savior who describes himself as our Good Shepherd and promises that he is always with us, guarding and keeping us in his hands.
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In our children's message today, we hear how Jesus is our Good Shepherd.Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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In a world where so many claim to have the answers and solutions to life’s greatest questions, our risen Savior tells us that he is the only one that can give us a future with God in heaven. We continue our "You Are My Witnesses" series with the encouragement that we are witnesses of the only way to heaven – the risen Savior!
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In our children's this message this week, Pastor leads you on a treasure hunt through church!Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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Our new worship series is called, "You Are My Witnesses," and focuses on the Acts of the Apostles and their witness to the resurrection of Jesus. As we look at the actions of the Apostles in those days after the resurrection, we will learn that the witnessing of Christ didn’t stop with those initial eyewitnesses. You and I today are called, too, to be witnesses of Christ by sharing that testimony and the joy and peace of salvation built on it.
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A message for kids and their families about peace that Jesus brings us on Easter.Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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The Greek word Anesti means “He is risen!” This phrase, first spoken by the angels at the tomb of Jesus, has become the most important fact the world has ever known. This morning, hear the story of the Savior who died, but now is risen to free us. Regardless of your past, regardless of your circumstances, God wants you to know the freedom that dawned on the first Easter morning. Anesti! He is Risen!
We have the freedom of knowing guilt no longer convicts us, sin no longer controls us, and death no longer contains us—because Christ is risen! Today, with Christians the world over, we celebrate this truth. And so Christians for two thousand years have greeted each other with the words, “He is Risen!” Let us worship the Savior who is risen to free us.
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CHRIST IS RISEN! HE IS RISEN INDEED! ALLELUIA! Today's worship celebrates Easter Sunday and our Savior's victory over sin, death, and the grave. If you would...An Easter message for children and their familiesWant to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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2000 years ago, God died. The Roman governor of Judea, Pontius Pilate, brought Jesus before the Jewish mob. thrusting forward a bloody and battered man with a mock crown and cape around him, Pilate shouted, “Ἰδοὺ ὁ ἄνθρωπος” (Latin: “Ecce, homo!”) “Behold, the man!” Pilate could not have known how his words fall on our ears, for Pilate holds before us the God-Man Jesus: true man who will live under the law for all humankind, and true God who will keep that law perfectly, and then die.
This service is a meditation on the words written by those gospel writers that recorded the crucifixion of Jesus. It allows the words of the accounts to speak for themselves, and it allows us to listen and then respond in love and thankfulness through song. You will hear an almost complete account of the events on Good Friday, from morning until afternoon. Be sorrowful over your sins and what it cost God to save you. But rejoice over your Savior, who was willing to pay.
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Join us as we celebrate Good Friday -- Christ's crucifixion and victory over death If you would like to support our ministry, please visit OurSaviorBirmingha...Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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Hail the King who humbly comes to save us! For 1700 years the Church has celebrated with Hosannas and palm branches this festival that opens Holy Week. The time for Christ’s glory had come. He would not, however, gain glory in the manner of other kings. Rather, he would humble himself in great acts of love for us, and then the Father would exalt him to the highest place, because he had fulfilled God’s mission to save mankind
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A children's message for Palm SundayWant to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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The Jesus we need is the one we see today: one who comes face-to-face with death and defeats it completely. Now he gives us eternal life!
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A children's message about faith and how in his Word, God tells us about himself and what he has done for us through Jesus.Want to hear more? Check out our sermon archive.
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The Jesus we need isn’t one who swoops in to help us in our earthly needs, but the Savior who meets our spiritual needs of forgiveness and eternal life.
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Recording of today’s livestreamed service (online only due to COVID-19 guidelines)
A children’s message to go with today’s service theme
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Is what we want always what we need? We know that's often not the case. How about when it comes to what kind of a hero we want at the center of our faith? Sometimes we find ourselves wanting a conquering hero with armies of angels. But the Bible's Jesus looks very different than that. Over the next weeks, we will find out just how this unlikely Jesus is exactly the kind of hero we need. Today, we see that we have a Savior who seeks us when we are lost. Jesus teaches us that the gift of God comes by faith to all nations. Not a holy life, not acts of obedience, but simple trust in the promise of God brings the gift of living water for thirsty souls. Abraham had faith in God who justifies the wicked, and so God credited it to him as righteousness. By this same faith, Christ gives righteousness to all who believe and enfolds sinful Samaritans and modern Gentiles like us into the family of God.
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