Saturday, March 26, 2016

Holy Saturday, March 26, 2016

Holy Saturday, March 26, 2016   Deliver us from Evil              



They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.  Acts 14:21-22

Pressure, hardship, and opposition are to be expected by God’s people on their earthly journey toward their full experience of His heavenly kingdom. Luther: “Curses will not be lacking. But go forth to face them more boldly, be strong, and cling steadfastly to the blessing, no matter how much everything seems to be full of a curse. For this is what we should conclude, it is sure that I have been baptized. I have heard the Word from the mouth of the minister. I have made use of the Sacrament of the Altar. This is the divine and unchangeable truth. Even though I am weak, it is sure and unalterable…You are children of the kingdom, your sins are forgiven, the devil has been overcome and laid low under your feet, sin and death will do you no harem, but you are blameless. Therefore, bear the hostile curses with equanimity.” (AE 5:145-146)[1]

O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen[2]



[1] The Lutheran Study Bible, © 2009 Concordia Publishing House St. Louis, MO Pp.1864

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