Saturday, January 30, 2010

Epiphany 4

For with authority and power He commands the unclean spirits, and out they come!” (Luke 4:36)

Jesus goes to Capernaum, the center of His Galilean ministry. The crowds are astounded at the authority of His teaching. They are amazed at the power demonstrated in his healing. Who is this Jesus? To what extent is he our authority, our standard for truth? What do we known of his power?

Jesus enters into His Father’s house and He begins teaching the people the Good News about the kingdom. But unlike the Pharisees and teachers of the law who quote the teachings of Moses and the Prophets, Jesus speaks by His own authority. Rather than speaking the teachings of others, Jesus speaks the Word Himself. With this speaking, He fulfills His role as the great High Priest.

Satan being cast down upon the earth in disobedience, hatred and spite has one of his demons take possession of a man in the synagogue. He recognizes Jesus as the One who has supreme authority and power. He cries cried out with a loud voice, “I know who you are— the Holy One of God.”

The evil spirit’s possession of the man is a direct assault upon the Father and His work of creation. Jesus as the great High Priest came to destroy the works of the devil. Jesus had the right, to set free the man held captive. Satan still considers it an infringement of his rights when God frees a “sinner” from bondage and destroys his influence. He still remains spiteful, malignant like a cancer - poisonous like a serpent - spreading his anger. He’s vicious. Striking out at all who come too close.

This demon was no different than his master. Still spiteful, though obliged to obey the divine will of God, the demon submits because he had to, not because he chose to. He exerted his last power, inflicting all the pain he could, and then bowed to the Son of God and came out.

Jesus came down from heaven in love and obedience to His Father. Jesus came to earth for the very purpose of paying the bills owed to the Father for your iniquity disobedience and sin. Jesus took the bills of your sin and paid the cost with His very own body and blood so that you could be free from the guilt over your iniquity and to relieve you from the burden of your sin.

When you humbly turn to Jesus in faith, believing that His death on the cross accomplished your salvation, you are enabled to confess your sins and ask that your debts be forgiven. He freely gives you pardon and peace. His gifts He offers to all who love Him. Jesus enables you to stand upright before Him as He removes your sin so that you are free to serve Him. In doing this, Jesus makes you Holy.

He made you holy in your Baptism. This is what our students learned in Morning Prayer this past week. What does Baptism with water signify? “It indicates that the Old Adam in us should by daily contrition and repentance be drowned and die with all sins and evil desires, and that a new man should daily arise to live before God in righteousness and purity forever.”

You are now free to live the life the Father intended for you to live. Your heavenly Father does not mean for you to live for yourself. You now live giving glory to God, as you serve your neighbor in the time given to you.

I say no


Our friends in Washington announced their biggest stimulus project yet; a high speed rail line that will cost billions of dollars and hopefully create thousands of jobs...In Ohio a train going from Cincinnati to Columbus to Cleveland will take just over six hours with a maximum speed of 79 miles per hour. You can travel by car in half the time. And how much will it cost to maintain the line?



Monday, January 25, 2010

Mozart broadcast coming this Thursday

Mozart's clarinet concerto performed by the Ft. Wayne Philharmonic on Saturday January 16th will be rebroadcast on Thursday, 1/28/2010 @ 8 pm on WBNI 94.1 FM The soloist Anthony McGill attended Interlochen Arts Academy and the Curtis Institute of Music. He is the principal clarinetist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra in New York. The man’s a freaking genius.

You will hear Mozart’s Symphony No. 31 in D Major Concerto in A Major his Concerto in A Major for Clarinet and Orchestra followed by Mozart’s Adagio and Fugue in C Minor and Symphony No. 35 in De Major. If you're working on your taxes in preparation for the FAFSA you might as well do it with some good music. If you have the chance tune in you won’t be disappointed.
Photo © Ft. Wayne Philharmonic

Time in the Word - Epiphany 4


The Theme for Epiphany 4 “Opposition to the Word of God” is seen in all three readings. In the Old Testament lesson, (Jeremiah 1:4-10) God promises to deliver those who fear the Lord. In the Epistle lesson, (1 Corinthians 12:31b – 13:13) the solution to opposition is love. In the Gospel for Epiphany 4, (Luke 4:31-44) Nazareth rejects Jesus for preaching the truth. Because we live in a fallen world our prayer is echoed by the hymn for the Day, “Lord, keep us steadfast in Your word.”

Collect for Epiphany 4 Lord, You know we live in the midst of so many dangers that in our frailty we cannot stand upright. Grant strength and protection to support us in all dangers and carry us through all temptations; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Monday, 25 January 2010Psalm 10:16-18, Antiphon, Psalm 10:12 Arise, O Lord; O God, lift up Your hand; forget not the afflicted. Those who are at the mercy of the oppressors have no one to go to except the One who created heaven and earth. Thus the psalmist pleads to the Lord to rescue him from the attacks of unscrupulous men. When wickedness rises against us we run to the waiting arms of the only one who can help us.

Tuesday, 26 January 2010Psalm 71:1-6 (7-11); key verse v12 Be not far from me O God; come quickly O my God to help me. This verse is a part of a prayer the psalmist prays in the waning years of his life. He knows his shepherd’s voice. He has the experience of the Good Shepherd’s guiding hand. Nothing will befall him with out the Savior’s will being perfected in his life. In a quite confidence he waits patiently upon the Lord. In like manner we commit our circumstances into the Lord’s safe keeping.

Wednesday, 27 January 2010Jeremiah 1:4-10– God promises to deliver the prophet Jeremiah from the fear of those opposing the Word. Before Jeremiah was born, he was called to be a prophet. The point of contact of this lesson with the Gospel is Jeremiah’s fear of preaching the Word as implied in verse 8. In the Gospel Jesus faced His opposition with courage. Here we are given the human side of the preacher. What would Jeremiah say concerning himself? He is destined to preach. (v.5) This is his life’s calling, although at times he feels unworthy to preach (v.6) and is at times afraid to preach. (v.8) But preach he must for he know that he speaks for God. (v.9)

Thursday, 28 January 20101 Corinthians12:31b-13:13 – The solution to opposition of course, is love. In a third series on the Spirit Paul explains that love is the best gift of the Spirit. Love, says St. Paul, is the best gift of the Holy Spirit. Love causes the hearer to love and accept the preaching of God’s Word regardless of his hurting. The Law condemns and accuses always. But it is important. It drives us to the Gospel.

Friday, 29 January 2010Luke 4:31-44– The people of Nazareth reject Jesus for preaching the truth. Could you believe it? Praise for the local preacher at Nazareth turns into violent hatred. They were about to throw Jesus off a cliff and then stone him to death. His ministry began with the possibility of death and ended with the actuality of death on another hill. People have not change. When a preacher displeases them they usually get rid of him. It is not by killing but by removal. Now church people are more refined; they use non-violent and underhanded methods, but they accomplish the same end. What could the people of Nazareth not tolerate in Jesus? He exposes their jealousy. He called them to repentance. He challenged them to change for the better.

The truth hurts! And we do not like people who hurt us with the truth. For this reason prophets through the ages have been wiped out or driven off. Amos was ordered to leave. Jeremiah was thrown into a pit. Chrysostom and Luther were exiled. Jesus was crucified. All this happened because people could not bear the hurt of the truth from the Word of God.

What must we do when confronted with the Law? Don’t blame the preacher. Stop it! Confess your sin. Don’t make excuses. Repent. Change - now. Switch paths. Don’t go back to visit. Go in the opposite direction. And be calmed by the words that bring comfort - that in Jesus Christ all sin has been paid for – period!

Saturday, 30 January 2009—-Psalm 119:5-10, John 3:31, Ephesians 4:3-6- Sunday’s hymn of the day is Lord keep Us Steadfast in Your Word (655 LSB). Because we live in a fallen world, because we face danger on every side, because there is only one source the Christian has for strength and sustenance we go to the only place for personal protection – the Words and promises of our Lord. Thus our prayer must be as found in the opening lines of our hymn, “Lord, Keep us steadfast in Your Word!”

A prayer for newness of life in ChristAlmighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness and put upon ourselves the armor of life, now in the time of this mortal life, in which Your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility, that in the last day, when He shall come again in glory to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal.

A prayer for Home and FamilyVisit, we implore You, O Lord, the homes in which Your people dwell, and keep far from them all harm and danger. Grant us to dwell together in peace under the protection of Your holy angels and may Your blessing be with us forever; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

A morning prayerFaithful God, whose mercies are new to us every morning, we humbly pray that You would look upon us in mercy and renew us by Your Holy Spirit. Keep safe our going out and our coming in, and let Your blessings remain with us throughout this day. Preserve us in Your righteousness and grant us a portion in that eternal life which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

A prayer before worshipO Lord, our Creator, Redeemer, and Comforter, as we come to worship You in spirit and in truth, we humbly pray that You may open our hearts to the preaching of Your Word, so that we may repent of our sins, believe in Jesus Christ as our only Savior, and grow in grace and holiness. Hear us for His same.

Prayers from Lutheran Service Book © 2006 and Lutheran Worship © 1980 Concordia Publishing House
Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use
Lectionary Preaching Workbook Series C – John Brokhoff © 1979 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH

Saturday, January 23, 2010

Epiphany 3

O Lord God Almighty, because You have always supplied Your servants with the several gifts which come from Your Holy Spirit alone, leave also us not destitute of Your manifold gifts nor of grace to use them always to Your honor and glory and the good of others; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever.

In the power of the Holy Spirit poured out on Him at His baptism Jesus begins His ministry. By word and deed Jesus proclaims that God indeed has intervened in our world, wrestling control of humanity and its destiny from the grip of Satan.

It was on a Sabbath that Jesus arrived in Nazareth. As was His practice He went to the synagogue. Now the synagogue worship service was divided up into three parts. In the worship part prayers were offered. The reading of the Scriptures consisted of lessons from the Law, usually read verse by verse by seven persons, and lessons from the prophets read three verses at a time. Teaching formed the third part of the service. On that day Jesus was both reader and preacher. Quoting from the prophet Isaiah Jesus proclaims that a new day has dawned. He is the one anointed by God and because He alone was anointed only He can deliver on what the prophet had predicted.

To the poor – those in utter spiritual destitution – He preaches the good news of God’s mercy which frees us. To the prisoners of war under Satan’s control He proclaims release. To the oppressed – those broken in pieces by sin and shame He proclaims freedom. To one and all in spiritual bondage, blindness, poverty and oppression He announces the arrival of an era in human history that God regards with favor and in which He grants His blessings in abundance. It is the first day of the “year” of Jubilee, a fixed period of time wherein liberty is proclaimed throughout the whole land. The Lord’s New Year of Jubilee is proclaimed…

1. In the Person of His Son Jesus Christ.
A. The Spirit of the Lord was on Him. “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed,” (Luke 4:18)
B. At His baptism He was set apart and endowed for His work in ministry. When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” (Luke 3:21-22)
C. He was sent by God in fulfillment of promise. The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD'S favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. (Isaiah 61:1-3)
D. He came with power and compassion.
1. The power and compassion are seen in His healing signs. Jesus said to them, “Surely you will quote this proverb to me: ‘Physician, heal yourself! Do here in your hometown what we have heard that you did in Capernaum.’ ” (Luke 4:23)
2. They are seen above all in His atoning death and resurrection.

Transition: The Lord’s New Year of Jubilee is proclaimed in the Person of His Son Jesus Christ. Because Christ has entered our world it is now the dawn of a new day.

2. God heralds the dawn of the New Year of Jubilee Have the trumpet sounded everywhere on the tenth day of the seventh month; on the Day of Atonement sound the trumpet throughout your land. Consecrate the fiftieth year and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants. It shall be a jubilee for you; each one of you is to return to his family property and each to his own clan. The fiftieth year shall be a jubilee for you; do not sow and do not reap what grows of itself or harvest the untended vines. For it is a jubilee and is to be holy for you; eat only what is taken directly from the fields “‘In this Year of Jubilee everyone is to return to his own property. (Leviticus 25:9-13)
A. It is the acceptable time of the Lord. “…proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Luke 4:19)
1. The Year of Jubilee originated with the people of Israel (Leviticus 25:8-17)
2. In the New Testament it became a fixed time in the life of Jesus – from the Incarnation to the 2nd Coming.
B. In it God’s grace and love abound. “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed,” (Luke 4:18)
1. To the poor He proclaims the good news, God’s free mercy.
2. To the prisoners of war He proclaims release.
3. To the oppressed He proclaims freedom.
C. This promise is fulfilled today in your hearing. “…and he began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” (Luke 4:21)
1. All promises find their focus in Jesus Christ.
2. This is the day of opportunity for us.
3. Rejoice in your “year of Jubilee!”
Conclusion: Jesus today proclaims liberty. These words are fulfilled in Jesus Christ. As He speaks this word to you this day it is fulfilled in your hearing! Christ has come to set you free to proclaim liberty and freedom. Not as some might define it but as He has established it at the cross and into your life. As the Son has set you free you truly are free indeed!

Monday, January 18, 2010

Time in the Word - Epiphany 3

The Theme for Epiphany 2 “The Purpose of Your Life” In the Old Testament lesson Ezra the scribe reads the Book of the Law in the presence of the people. Reading from the Book of the Law brought tears to the people. Their purpose was to be directed by the Word of the Lord. In the Epistle lesson Paul reminds us that by the Spirit Christians are members of one body. In the Gospel lesson Jesus finds His purpose in Isaiah’s words. The hymn of the Day is a prayer asking the Christian to ever walk near to the Lord.

Collect for Epiphany 3 Almighty and everlasting God, mercifully look upon our infirmities and stretch forth the hand of Your majesty to heal and defend us; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Monday, 18 January 2010Psalm 102:18-22, Antiphon, Psalm 102:13 – You will arise and have pity on Zion; it is the time to favor her; the appointed time has come. The antiphon is the centerpiece of the entire psalm. The psalmist’s distress was occasioned by the Babylonian exile. Yet, he sees an appointed time – a time set by god for judgment and deliverance to come. As we pray this prayer we too look for a time of deliverance to come. We pray that deliverance might come to us now and ultimately on the last great day, that day when we shall live beyond time and space.

Tuesday, 19 January 2010Psalm19: (1-6) 7-14; key verse v14-May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. These words are quite familiar – they are often uttered by the pastor before the sermon. By these words the preacher is asking that he only proclaim God’s words and not his own. By these words the hear asks that these words of the Lord penetrate the heart and mind so that faith may be strengthened and nourished. May the word of the Lord give us both direction and encouragement not only this coming Sunday but throughout this New Year.

Wednesday, 20 January 2010Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10– Notice how the worship practices of Ezra and Nehemiah are quite similar to ours today. Ezra the scribe reads the Book of the Law in the presence of the people. After they heard the word they responded in two ways. First they feasted. Delicious festive food prepared with much fat. The fat of sacrificial animals was offered to God as the tastiest element of the burnt offering, the fellowship offering, the sin offering and the guilt offering. The fat was not to be eaten in these cases. They also remembered the poor and those less fortunate on these joyous occasions. Likewise, we today respond in two ways. We come to a worship service to hear the word. We eat the sacrifice of Christ in the Sacrament and then we respond in sacramental living. In service we worship God. We respond by reaching out to our neighbors and especially to those whose need is great. We respond as the word of the Lord has taken root in our lives.

Thursday, 21 January 20101 Corinthians12:12-31a– The Christian finds his purpose in the body of Christ. By the Spirit Christians are members of one body. The unity of the church is the unity of Christ. We are one in Christ, as members of the body of Christ. Regardless of our differences Jews, Greeks, bond, free, we are all one. Last names cease when we enter the church door. We are one in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul will remind us in verse 13, “For by one Spirit we were baptized into one body – and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” The church is not a human institution held together by its leaders and members’ contributions. If that were the case the church would have died long ago. The Spirit calls, gathers, enlightens, sanctifies, and preserves the church from age to age.

Friday, 22 January 2010Luke 4:16-30– Many today are seeking self-identity. They are seeking to understand who they are and what their purpose in life is. Many do not have a reason for living. They are confused because they are aimless. They have no goals for life. As Christians, who follow Christ in all things, our purpose in life should be the same as Jesus’ purpose. Luke tells us: Where Jesus came from – He came from God to fulfill god’s promises. He tells us who Jesus is – He is the Messiah, God’s servant – commissioned and called. He tells us what Jesus was to do – preach the good news.

Saturday, 23 January 2009—- Matthew 16:24; 1 Peter 4:12-13; Matthew 10:38-39; Romans 6:2-5, 8- Sunday’s hymn of the day is Let us Ever Walk with Jesus (685 LSB) The purpose of Jesus’ life was fulfilled by the words of the prophet. The purpose of your life is that the will of God might be fulfilled in us. Thus this wonderful hymn encourages the believer to daily walk with the Lord, to follow Christ’s example and word that daily we might be conformed to His will and way.

A prayer for steadfast faithAlmighty God, our heavenly Father, of Your tender love towards us sinners You have given us Your Son that, believing in Him, we might have everlasting life. Continue to grant us Your Holy Spirit that we may remain steadfast in this faith to the end and come to life everlasting.

A prayer for newness of life in ChristAlmighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness and put upon ourselves the armor of life, now in the time of this mortal life, in which Your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility, that in the last day, when He shall come again in glory to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal.

A prayer for Home and FamilyVisit, we implore You, O Lord, the homes in which Your people dwell, and keep far from them all harm and danger. Grant us to dwell together in peace under the protection of Your holy angels, and may Your blessing be with us forever; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
A morning prayerFaithful God, whose mercies are new to us every morning, we humbly pray that You would look upon us in mercy and renew us by Your Holy Spirit. Keep safe our going out and our coming in, and let Your blessings remain with us throughout this day. Preserve us in Your righteousness and grant us a portion in that eternal life which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.


Prayers from Lutheran Service Book © 2006 and Lutheran Worship © 1980 Concordia Publishing House
Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use
Lectionary Preaching Workbook Series C – John Brokhoff © 1979 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Epiphany 2


Almighty and eternal God, Governor or all things in heaven and earth, mercifully hear the prayers of Your people, and grant us Your peace in our day; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever.

For those of you who are movie buffs, Orson Wells directed what has been called by many as the greatest film ever made - Citizen Kane. Yet in the twilight of his career, he was pegged to deliver that famous ad for wine. “We will sell no wine before its time.” In His first miracle Jesus shows us the extent He will go to serve us giving us only the best.

John reminds us this is Jesus’ first miracle. He doesn’t come merely to save this nameless couple form embarrassment. He comes to reveal Himself as the author of life. For 30 years Jesus has lived in obscurity. Now is the time.

1. To reveal His glory

A. Although He was the Creator of the world no one ever noticed.

1. John in His gospel reminds us of this fact, “the Word, then, was in the world. God made the world through Him.” (John 1:10a)

2. The world, created by Jesus could not understand that the Lord of glory had come to redeem it. “…Yet the world did not know Him. He came to His own country but His own people did not receive Him.” (v. 10b-11)

B. To those who did receive Him they became His children by faith.

1. Some however did receive Him. Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name (v.12a)

a. They believed in Him. He gave the right to be the children of God. (v.12b)

b. Thus He gave the right to become God’s children For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (John 1:17c)

Transition: Now is the time – for Jesus to reveal His glory – yet for what purpose? There is a divine purpose in Jesus’ miracles, which He performed.

2. Now is the time for us to believe!

A. John reminds us of the divine purpose in Jesus’ miracle.

1. He performed it there, in Cana of Galilee.

2. He works wonders and miracles here where you live and work among the people who matter most to you – family, friends.

B The purpose for the miracles is always faith.

1. Some might be tempted to think that Jesus’ miracles were conducted and performed to meet people’s “felt needs” –we all have needs!


2. True, we may benefit from Jesus’ miracles – I this case- the couple is saved from embarrassment. In the case of blind Bartamaous it’s his sight. In the case of 5,000 hungry people it’s 12 baskets full of leftovers.

2. Yet, Jesus’ purpose is that we might put our faith in Him.

a. This is what took place in the lives of the disciples – they believe in Him (v. 11c)

b. For you it’s the same purpose – The Savior desires that you believe in Him. He will do whatever it takes for you to believe in Him – even if it takes a miracle!

Conclusion: The timing was perfect. Jesus came into this world – at just the right time. He performed His first miracle at just the right time. A New Year is upon us. In every circumstance throughout this year and even beyond the timing will be perfect. He shapes and uses the events of our lives drawing us closer to Himself so that w3e might believe in Him. As it was done in the lives of His disciples may be done unto you also – That His glory may be manifest and that you may place your faith in Him.

Schnorr von Carolsfeld, woodcuts © WELS Permission to use these copyrighted items is limited to personal and congregational use.


+ Soli Deo Gloria +

Monday, January 11, 2010

Time in the Word - Epiphany 2


The Theme for Epiphany 2 “God’s Glory Manifested In Transforming Power” can be seen in all three lessons for the week. In the Old Testament lesson God marries His people. God will transform Jerusalem from desolation to delight. In the Epistle lesson The Sprit transforms from “Jesus be cursed” to “Jesus is Lord!” Here the gifts of the Spirit will be outlined for us. In the Gospel lesson, the wedding at Cana Christ transforms water into wine. Here He manifests His glory and His disciples put their faith in Him.

Collect for Epiphany 2Almighty and Everlasting God, who governs all things in heaven and on earth, mercifully hear the prayers of Your people and grant us Your peace through all our days; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever.

Monday, 11 January 2010Psalm 36:5:9, Antiphon, Song of Solomon 2:4 The Lord brought me to the banqueting house, and His banner over me was love. See also Numbers 2:2 and Psalm 20:5 – The king’s love for his bride is displayed for all to see like a large military banner. So is the Father’s love for you. Great is His faithfulness.

Tuesday, 12 January 2010Psalm128; key verse v5 May the Lord bless you from Zion all thee days of your life; may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem. The blessedness of the godly man is the theme for this week’s psalm. It is another word for wisdom concerning hearth and home. The key verse is thought to be a Levitical or priestly benediction or a word of instruction to those assembled from their homes coming to worship at Jerusalem,

Wednesday, 13 January 2010Isaiah 62:1-5– Isaiah uses the analogy of marriage to express the relationship of Judah to God. He marries His people, His land. It is not the first marriage for God. Like Hosea, He takes His people back again and again. He remarries His people to Himself. What does this say about God’s attitude toward His people? God loves His people “The Lord delights in you” v. 4. God make His people new – they take, like a bride takes her husband’s name, His name: “You shall be called My delight is in her” v. 4 God rejoices over His people, “So shall your God rejoice over you” v.5 God and His land make a happy couple.

Thursday, 14 January 20101 Corinthians12:1-11– Can we be different and yet one? The church has always threatened with divisions. It happened in the 1st Century it happens today in the 21st Century. To have peace and unity must all church members agree and be alike? According to the text, the church is unique in that she can have unity with diversity. This unity is the same Spirit in all, but there is a variety of gifts from the one Spirit. As long as there is one good, sweet spirit in a congregation, it is a blessing for the church to have a diversity of gifts.

Friday, 15 January 2010John 2:1-11– The custom is to prepare an invitation list for a wedding. The invitation signifies you are important to the one inviting you. It indicates further that you are wanted. The unknown couple in the gospel put Jesus on their invitation list. And they could be glad they did! Jesus honors them with His presence. He met their needs of wine. He saved the reception from failure. Have you invited Jesus to come into your marriage, your work, your life?

For many life is empty. Our lives may be as empty as the stone jars. When we come to Jesus, as Mary did, for help, Jesus not only fills us up to the brim, but gives us an excess. The six stone jars provided 120 – 180 gallons of wine! Note, tool, the generosity of Jesus in feeding the 5,000 – twelve baskets were left over. Jesus is able not only to meet our needs, but to exceed them.

Just like the Nike commercial Mary told the servants to do whatever Jesus told them to do. “Just do it!” She had learned to respect His words. If the servants had not obeyed, there would have been no wine out of water. A miracle will take place in our lives when we “do whatever He tells us”. To obey is a test of faith when the command seems illogical and ridiculous. The need was wine and Jesus commands getting water! He has other seemingly illogical demands: “Give and it shall be given you,” “He who loses his life shall find it.”

Saturday, 16 January 2009—-Matthew 2:1-12; Ephesians 1:9; John 18:26-27; John 1:29 - Sunday’s hymn of the day is The Star Proclaims the King Is Here (399 LSB) This is yet another wonderful Epiphany hymn. Despite outward conditions nothing will change concerning God’s dealings with His people. As the Wise Men were directed to find the infant Lord Jesus so to this day the Lord will make His presence known to you as He comes through His means of grace. This is how He chooses to communicate to you – in tangible ways. Not in myth, not in the spectacular or the supernatural but through simple means. Wise men still seek Him. Look for Him in those places He has promised He will be found.

Prayers from Lutheran Service Book © 2006 and Lutheran Worship © 1980 Concordia Publishing House
Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use
Lectionary Preaching Workbook Series C – John Brokhoff © 1979 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH

Saturday, January 9, 2010

Commentary on Sunday's Gospel

Posted this two years ago...
During a news conference with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, Bush received a taste of the immense resentment many Iraqis feel toward his policies: Just after Bush finished his remarks and said “Thank you” in Arabic, an Iraqi journalist took off his shoes and hurled them both at Bush, one after the other. The incident lent an air of chaos and farce to a trip intended to highlight improving security conditions in the war-torn country.

This is a farewell kiss!” the man, identified as Muntadar al-Zaidi, a reporter with the Cairo-based network Al Baghdadia Television, yelled as he threw the shoes. Bush had to duck out of the way, and narrowly missed being hit, according to on-scene reports. Al-Maliki reached out his hand to shield the president.

Zaidi started to yell “Dog, dog!” as he was surrounded by security agents, who tackled him to the floor and began to beat him. Zaidi was later removed from the ornate room where the news conference was taking place.

To throw a shoe is the worst sign of contempt in this part of the world. What is it that John the Baptist said in Sunday's Gospel, "I am unworthy to unti his shoe strap..." Without Christ we are worse then dogs, we are poor, condemned miserable sinners without hope.

Epiphany 1


Father in heaven, at the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River Your proclaimed Him Your beloved Son and anointed Him with the Holy Spirit. Make all who are baptized into His name faithful in their calling as Your children and inheritors with Him of everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever.

At His baptism Jesus received the Spirit and heard God declare that He was God’s Son. It was a prayer experience in which Jesus heard the voice of His Father. For us, our own baptism too is a religious experience in which we communicate with God. Baptism is more then an objective affair. In baptism we are given the Spirit which enables us to will and to do the Father’s good pleasure.

On society seems almost at times obsessed demanding to have only natural products (examples). When it comes to our Savior He gives us that one thing needful. He gives us Himself.

1. John becomes the Forerunner of Christ.
A. John’s ministry had people asking whether he might be the Christ.
Luke 3:15 The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Christ (v.15)
1. They were in expectation.
2. John’s preaching had accomplished its purpose. Luke 3:10-14 “What should we do then?” the crowd asked. John answered, “The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same.” Tax collectors also came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” “Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told them. Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.” (Vv.7-14)
B. John’s response to their question “Not me”
1. One mightier then he is coming. In comparison to Him, John is not worthy. Luke 3:16 John answered them all; “I baptize you with water. But one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. (v.16)
2. His work will be greater than John’s
a. He will baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. Luke 3:16 He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. (v.16c)
b. He will bring in the harvest and separate the wheat from the chaff. The harvest will be in His hands.

2. Jesus is the one who is to come – the Christ.
A. Jesus’ baptism is a public proclamation of His ministry.
1. John the Baptism is not even mentioned here. Jesus becomes the central figure. He must remain the central focus in al we do. In this New Year may Christ be the center of everything we do. May our focus be on Him.
2. The witness of the Spirit is shown in His descent as a dove.
3. The blessing of the Father is on His “beloved Son”. Isaiah 42:1 “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations. (Isaiah 42:1) If the baptism of Jesus was his official initiation into the messianic office, with the descent of the Spirit representing his anointing for the work, the present passage too presents Jesus' ministry in prospect from the perspective of his baptismal inauguration.
B. Jesus’ work begins for us as the beloved Son.
1. He is the real deal.
2. His this first act of His ministry Jesus publicly receives His commission.
3. He must be the center of our lives as our Redeemer.

In the final analysis, nothing matters except this One who was baptized in the waters of the Jordan. He was not an imposter or traveling preacher. He was the One to whom all the prophets pointed. John the Baptist could also only direct the attention of the people to Him, for He is the Beloved Son of the Father.
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Monday, January 4, 2010

Time in the Word - Epiphany 1

Anointed with the Spirit is the theme for this coming Sunday. Christmas is officially over for the year and a new season is upon us. Epiphany literally means “I see it!” or “Now I understand!” or “I’ve got it!” In Epiphany this infant whom we have worshiped at the manger we now see as God’s chosen One. Hence the antiphon for the Introit will be taken from Isaiah’s prophecy Jesus is the Father’s chosen one, the one in whom He delights. Jesus begins His public ministry at His baptism. Now we see Him as He is. Now we understand what He will do. In the Old Testament lesson God’s Servant is anointed with the Spirit to bring Justice. In the Gospel lesson Jesus is anointed with the Spirit as God’s Son at His Baptism. Paul in the Epistle reminds his readers, that through our own incorporation into Christ we are to be regarded as dead to sin and alive in Christ. The Hymn of the day recounts Christ’s own baptism and calls for us to live our lives anew to Him who has redeemed us. It’s a new year. How’s that New Year’s resolution coming? By the Spirit’s aid celebrating the Savior’s baptism and remembering our own can help us resolve to forget the past and live a new life as He directs us. See the petition for the likeness of Christ.

Collect for Epiphany 1Father in heaven, at the Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River You proclaimed Him Your beloved Son and anointed Him with the Holy Spirit. Make all who are baptized in His name faithful in their calling as Your children and inheritors with Him of everlasting life; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen

Monday, 04 January 2010Psalm 2:7-11, 12c, Antiphon, Isaiah 42:1a – Behold My servant, whom I uphold, My chosen, in whom My soul delights. When the matador enters the ring, when your favorite teams enters the court there is a thunder of applause from the adoring crowd. This is the Father’s response not only to His own Son Jesus but also with you. By grace through faith you have been incorporated into God’s family. At the celebration of the baptism of our Lord we also remember our own baptism. This is your new status as one of Christ’s redeemed.


Tuesday, 05 January 2010Psalm29; key verse v3 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name; worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness. This week’s Psalm is a hymn of praise to the King of creation whose majesty and power are trumpeted by the thunderbolts of the rainstorm – as the storm rose above the Mediterranean swept across the Lebanon range and rolled over the wilds of Kadesh. The key verse is the believer’s response we are to worship the Lord “in the splendor of His holiness.”

Wednesday, 06 January 2010Isaiah 43:1-7– God’s servant is anointed with the Spirit to bring justice. This is a servant song about Israel as god’s servant who will be anointed with the Spirit to bring justice and light to the nations. We can see the fulfillment of this prophecy in Jesus, and then the church as God’s servant carrying on the work of Jesus in the world.

Here is a much needed conception of the church as God’s servant. To be this the church needs to be anointed by the Spirit. (v.1) As servant, the church will not use force but the compassion of live to attain her goals. (Vv.2, 3) She will not be discouraged in her work – in spite of setbacks in a hostile world. (v.4)

Thursday, 07 January 2010Romans 6:1-11– Your baptism is a birth certificate, Your baptism is a death certificate. In baptism you died to sin and became alive to God. When we come to the Father in repentance and faith our old Adam, that is, our old sinful nature is drowned and killed while a new man, becomes alive in us to live before God in righteousness and purity. Each day is a death to self and a new life to God. The words of John the Baptist are a fitting refrain, “He must increase I must decrease.” John 3:30

Friday, 08 January 2010Luke 3:15-22– How many baptisms are there? Luke emphasizes the anointing of the Spirit in connection with baptism. The Holy Spirit comes to us in and through our baptism. In the gospel lesson “water baptism” and “spirit baptism” are mentioned. In verse 16 John the Baptizer says he baptizes with water but a greater than he will baptism with the Spirit and fire. Water and Sprit baptism are one and the same. The Spirit comes with the Word manifested by the sign of water. Baptism is essentially as spiritual matter, a covenant between God and the believer. It is not a mere external matter of applying water to a person. You are a true and complete Christian by virtue of your baptism. This is your birthright, where faith is born. It’s purpose and power can not be taken away from you.

Saturday, 09 January 2009—-Matthew 3:13-17; Hebrews 2:17; Luke 4:18; 2 Corinthians 5:21 Sunday’s hymn of the day is To Jordan’s River Came Our Lord. (LSB 405) The hymn recounts Christ’s own baptism and the new life He offers to us. As you meditate upon this wonderful hymn resolve to daily walk with Him who has promised to order your days and direct you path.


Collect for 2nd Sunday after ChristmasO God, our Maker and Redeemer, who wonderfully created us and in the incarnation of Your Son yet more wondrously restored our human nature, grant that we may ever be alive in Him who made Himself to be like us; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever.

Collect for the Epiphany or our LordO God, by the leading of a star You once made known to all nations Your only-begotten Son; now lead us, who know You by faith, to know in heaven the fullness of Your divine goodness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever.

Collect for the likeness of ChristO God, by the patient suffering of Your only-begotten Son, You have beaten down the pride of the old enemy. Now help us, we humbly pray, rightly to treasure in our hearts all that our Lord has of His goodness born for our sake that after His example we may bear with patience all that is adverse to us; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

A prayer for steadfast faithAlmighty God, our heavenly Father, of Your tender love towards us sinners You have given us Your Son that, believing in Him, we might have everlasting life. Continue to grant us Your Holy Spirit that we may remain steadfast in this faith to the end and come to life everlasting.

A prayer for newness of life in ChristAlmighty God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness and put upon ourselves the armor of life, now in the time of this mortal life, in which Your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility, that in the last day, when He shall come again in glory to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal.

Prayers from Lutheran Service Book © 2006 and Lutheran Worship © 1980 Concordia Publishing House
Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use
Lectionary Preaching Workbook Series C – John Brokhoff © 1979 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH


Saturday, January 2, 2010

Christmas 2



All-powerful Father, You sent Your Son Jesus Christ to bring the new light of salvation to the world. May He enlighten us with His radiance, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, for ever and ever. Amen

The eternal Word of God became flesh in Jesus and believers see the glory of God in Him. John begins His Gospel by putting it in the perspective of eternity. Before Jesus was born, the Word existed and created the universe. In the fullness of time the Word comes in the person of Jesus who brings light and life, truth, grace, and the perfect revelation of God in Jesus Christ. He is the light that lights up everyone in Christ. John the Baptist was only a witness to that light which the darkness of sin cannot extinguish. Those who believe in the Incarnate Word become children of God by the will of God.. Believers receive this power through Him who is full of grace and truth.

The Word is God’s way of communicating to us His truth and grace which constitute the glory of God. There are different functions of the Word. People receive the Word according to their needs and capacity to receive it. In this passage we are three persons in relation to the Word. We can find our need for all three. We see the Word in relation to –

1. Moses – the Word as law – Vs.17

2. Jesus – the Word as truth and grace – Vs.14

3. John the Baptist – the Word witnessed – Vs.7


Schnorr von Carolsfeld, woodcuts © WELS Permission to use these copyrighted items is limited to personal and congregational use

Friday, January 1, 2010

Mission-Philosphy-Vision Statement


Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church
Friedheim

10653 N – 550 W
Decatur, IN 46733
260-547-4248

Celebrating our 171st Year
Chartered February 25, 1838

http://www.zionfriedheim.org

A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith
Acts 2:42

2009
Annual Report
Mission-Philosophy-Vision Statement
For our Friedheim Family


Preamble: The birthday of Mission occurred on the day of Pentecost circa AD 30 in the city of Jerusalem. On February 25, 1838 Zion-Friedheim Lutheran Church was chartered to be a House of Peace, a Haven of Hope for those who suffer and a Harbor of Light in this sin-darkened world. As followers of Jesus we are Christ’s ambassadors – commission by Him who has reconciled the world to Himself to be salt and light.

The Mission of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church - Friedheim is to be “A 21st Century Parish with a 1st Century Faith

The Philosophy of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church - Friedheim is recorded in Acts 2:42And they continued steadfast in the Apostles’ doctrine, and in fellowship, and in the breaking of bread, and in prayer

The Vision of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church - Friedheim is to be one with respect to four specific objectives of mission and ministry.

Ø “The Apostles Doctrine” Being one in unity and faith. Basing our lives on God’s Holy Word as He speaks clearly to us through that Word.

Ø “Fellowship” Being one in the Lord Jesus Christ. Experiencing true joy in Christ. Living at peace with each other and enjoying one another.

Ø “The Breaking of Bread” Sacramental living. Experiencing daily the forgiveness of sins, life and salvation as Christ comes to us in and through the Sacraments.

Ø “Prayer” Upholding one another. Taking our needs burdens joys and sorrows to the throne room of grace. Being thankful as the Savior answers each petition.

Adopted: February 6, 2003

Happy New Year!


Forget the toy mouse Salem and Tacy received for Christmas a few years ago. They are content to bat a few Christmas bows they found under the tree. But watch your step as you might trip over the stupid thing!

A New Year's Prayer

Jesus, direct my beginning
Jesus, remain ever near me;
Jesus, Refuge in temptation,
Jesus, be my sole desire.
Jesus, be ever in my thoughts,
Jesus, let me neve falter!
From Bach's Christmas Oratorio
New Year's Day #7
#42 Chorale
Schnorr von Carolsfeld, woodcuts © WELS Permission to use these copyrighted items is limited to personal and congregational use.